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- calendar_today November 6, 2026
Trail Section Reopened After More Than Two Years
A major hiking route in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, damaged during Hurricane Helene, is partially open to visitors again. Over two years after the storm’s heavy rainfall caused significant destruction, park officials announced that a 0.8-mile segment between Caldwell Fork Trail and Boogerman Trail junction has reopened on the North Carolina side of the park, just south of Cataloochee Valley.
Details of the Trail Rehabilitation
The reopened segment follows extensive efforts by National Park Service trail crews. The crews repaired heavily damaged treadway—sections of trail that had washed away during the flooding—and replaced two footbridges that were lost during the storm. Their work allows hikers to safely return to this scenic and historically popular route for the first time since the hurricane hit.
Extent of Hurricane Helene’s Damage
According to park communications, Hurricane Helene left large portions of Caldwell Fork Trail and its infrastructure devastated. Numerous rockslides blocked the trail, multiple bridges were swept away, and significant debris created hazardous conditions. The combination of washed away trail surfaces and remaining blockages forced the park to close the affected sections immediately after the storm.
Remaining Closures and Current Hazards
While the rehabilitated section between Caldwell Fork Trail and Boogerman Trail junction is now accessible, the remainder of Caldwell Fork Trail past the Boogerman Trail junction remains closed. Trail crews have not yet begun repairs past this point. Additionally, officials advise that hiking on Boogerman Trail is not recommended; the first foot log, previously a 55-foot-long bridge, was swept away, and the stream it spanned is typically more than 2 feet deep, even in dry conditions, making safe passage impossible.
Park’s Ongoing Recovery and Visitor Guidance
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park continues to manage trail closures and restoration projects resulting from hurricane helene damage. Although some national park trails remain affected, the reopening of this portion of Caldwell Fork Trail provides new opportunities for visitors eager to explore the region, while also highlighting the scale of the recovery effort required after significant weather events.
Looking Ahead for Trail Access
Park officials have not provided a timeline for the reopening of the remaining closed sections of Caldwell Fork Trail. Visitors are encouraged to check the park’s website for up-to-date trail conditions and follow all posted warnings regarding trail closures and hazards.
Source: wkrn.com.
