Wildfire in Shenandoah Closes Portions of Appalachian Trail and Skyline Drive (updated)

This information has been updated as of 11:00 pm on 4/21/16:

A fire was reported on Saturday, April 16, 2016, within the south district of Shenandoah National Park. The Rocky Mount Fire 2016 is currently estimated at 7935 acres, and is burning entirely within the park boundary in designated wilderness. As of late 4/21, 40% of the perimeter has been contained. No structures are currently threatened by the fire. The cause of the fire is under investigation, but is likely human caused.

There are several trail closures associated with this fire, which includes:

· Appalachian Trail from Doyles River Overlook (mile 82) to Powell Gap (mile 70)
· Rocky Mount Trail
· Gap Run Trail
· Onemile Run Trail
· Brown Mountain Trail
· Big Run Portal Trail
· Rocky Mountain Run Trail
· Rockytop Trail
· Big Run Loop
· Austin Mountain Trail
· Lewis Peak Trail
· Patterson Ridge Trail
· Madison Run Spur (as well as Madison Run Fire Road)

Skyline Drive is also closed from Swift Run, mile 65, to Loft Mountain, mile 79.

The fire is within the park's Fire Ecology Zone, where fire is allowed to occur to achieve natural resource benefits commensurate with the park's responsibility to protect life and property, and keep the fire within the park boundaries. A "Maximum Management Area" has been defined, and holding actions will be taken as necessary and appropriate to keep the fire within that area, and within the park.

For the latest information, click here.



Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com
HikinginGlacier.com
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com
TetonHikingTrails.com