Laurel Falls Access Fee Proposed

Laurel Falls Access Fee Proposed. Great Smoky Mountains National Park is seeking public input on the Laurel Falls Trail Congestion Management Pilot Project. The pilot would address visitor experience, safety, and parking congestion at one of the park’s busiest trails from Sept. 7 through Oct. 3, 2021.  

The proposal will eliminate parking in undesignated areas. A reservation only parking system will be implemented at a cost of $14 per vehicle. Visitors could also access the trailhead via shuttle service from Gatlinburg for a fee of $5 per person. Park managers propose implementing these temporary measures to assess their effectiveness in reducing congestion, enhancing visitor safety, and creating a more enjoyable Laurel Falls Trail experience. The findings of this trial period will be used to inform the alternatives developed in the previously announced Laurel Falls Trail Management Plan, this program is also open for preliminary public comment. 

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Smoky Mountain Bear Attack

Smoky Mountain Bear Attack. Great Smoky Mountain National Park officials have closed backcountry campsite 29 in Cosby after an incident with a bear occurred on June 18, 2021. Sources report a 16 year old young woman from Tennessee was attacked and injured by a black bear while sleeping in a hammock. The attack occurred at campsite 29 approximately 5.7 miles from the Maddron Bald Trailhead. The young woman was treated at the University of Tennessee Medical Center.

The following informative video about Black Bear safety featuring retired GSMNP ranger Arthur “Butch” McDade was recorded in 2016 prior to the recent bear attack.

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Smoky Mountain Strawberry Moon

Smoky Mountain Strawberry Moon is on the rise! This first full moon of summer 2021, also known as the Strawberry Moon, rises June 24, 2021, marking the last super moon of the year. June’s full moon arrives at 2:40 p.m. EDT (1940 GMT). … In turn, the Moon will look slightly bigger and brighter since it’s closer to the Earth than usual.

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Hike Naked Day!

Hike Naked Day! That is right, June 21st is the official international hike naked day! The free and easy event is often a rite of passage for many long distance hikers who love to surprise unwary day hikers. If you decide to bare it all, inhibitions included, and hit the trail in your birthday suit remember that local laws must be observed despite your flamboyant nature. While there are no federal laws prohibiting nudity in National Forest or Park lands that may be overridden by local statutes. Do your research and make sure your trail of choice is agreeable to your lifestyle choices and be generous with the tick repellant! Everyone knows June 21st is the summer solstice and the longest day of the year but they may not be prepared for the moon to come out surprisingly early!