The Smoky Mountain Hiking Blog: Appalachian National Scenic Trail will reopen access to 27 miles of the Trail in Central Virginia known as the “Triple Crown”

Following guidance from the White House, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and state and local public health authorities, the Appalachian National Scenic Trail is increasing recreational access. The National Park Service (NPS) is working Service-wide with federal, state, and local public health authorities to closely monitor the COVID-19 pandemic and using a phased approach to increase access on a park-by-park basis.

Beginning June 13, 2020, the Appalachian National Scenic Trail will reopen access to 27 miles of the Trail in Central Virginia known as the “Triple Crown.” The “Triple Crown” area includes all National Park Service owned land between VA Route 624 (Newport Road) and VA Route 652 (Mountain Pass Road), including McAfee Knob and Tinker Cliffs.

While these areas are accessible for visitors to enjoy, the public should follow local area health orders https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/coronavirus/prevention-tips/, practice Leave No Trace principles, including pack-in and pack-out, to keep outdoor spaces safe and healthy. All visitors should plan on following CDC guidance on social distancing, avoid crowded areas, and seek outdoor recreational opportunities that are close to home. Visitors should plan on carrying hand sanitizer, as hand-washing facilities are not available on the Trail.

The CDC has offered guidance to help people recreating in parks and open spaces prevent the spread of infectious diseases.

As our nation continues to confront this unprecedented public health challenge, the safety and health of our visitors, employees, volunteers, and partners is paramount. Updates about NPS operations will be posted on www.nps.gov/coronavirus.