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Appalachian Trail Hikers Told to Postpone Southern Trips Until Isaias Passes
The trail conference warns of flash floods, landslides and falling trees from Georgia to Virginia, especially in Helene-damaged areas.
The Appalachian Trail Conservancy is advising hikers to consider postponing trips on the southern part of the trail until Hurricane Isaias has passed. Its alert, posted Friday, says the storm's updated track brings heavy rain, flash flooding and high winds to the trail from Georgia through southwest Virginia, with possible heavy rain and flash flooding into central Virginia.
Areas hit by Hurricane Helene in 2024 are at particular risk because the landscape is still recovering. Wind can bring down trees and heavy rain can raise streams to dangerous levels and trigger landslides. Anyone on the trail during or right after the storm should stay well clear of standing dead, diseased or damaged trees, which can fall at any time.
Separately, Great Smoky Mountains National Park has closed Cosby Knob Shelter, at northbound mile 231.4, because of bear activity. Do not camp there or stop for breaks, the privy or lunch. Newfound Gap Road through the park has been closed since Friday night for the storm.
Check the National Hurricane Center and weather.gov before heading out, and the conservancy's trail updates page for closures as crews assess damage.
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