The recent blast of frigid temperatures that descended on Great Smoky Mountains National Park makes word of closure of the Sinks Parking Area along the Little River Road in the park largely a so-what deal. But be aware that spring visitors to the park could have some trail access difficulties.

The parking area, which often gets congested in summer as folks use it so they can take a dip in the Little River, has been closed so crews can reconstruct it. The work calls for adding cut-stone walkways and a paved overlook that will allow all visitors, including those in wheelchairs, to view Meigs Waterfall.

However, the closure means the access to the Meigs Creek Trailhead, which is 13 miles west of the Sugarlands Visitor Center and 7 miles east of Townsend, is shut off. The work is scheduled to be completed by May 10, so hopefully this won't create too many problems.