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Wildfires Close Trails, Campsites In Great Smoky Mountains National Park

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By Compiled From N... - March 27th, 2022

Wildfires have led to some backcountry trail and campsite closures at Great Smoky Mountains National Park/NPS

Two wildfires that burned into Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina forced closures of some backcountry trails and campsites.

The two fires, which were being managed as the Thomas Divide Complex Fire, were spotted Saturday east of Bryson City, North Carolina. The Stone Pile Fire was estimated to be approximately 140 acres, while the Cooper Creek Fire was estimated at approximately 170 acres. The complex was estimated Sunday morning to be 10 percent contained, with about half of the fire burning within the park boundary. Several park trails and backcountry campsites remain closed between Deep Creek and Newfound Gap Road.  

Approximately 50 firefighters were working to establish firebreak lines using hand crews and bulldozers. Outside the park, firefighters were working to provide structure protection. Air resources were available to respond if wind speeds allowed. 

The following areas within the national park were closed Sunday morning: Backcountry campsites 46, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, and 60; Deep Creek and Thomas Divide trails from Deep Creek to Newfound Gap Road; Pole Road Creek, Indian Creek, Stone Pile Gap, Deep Creek Horse Bypass, Juney Whank Falls, Deeplow, Fork Ridge, Sunkota Ridge, Martins Gap, Indian Creek Motor Nature, Mingus Creek, Newton Bald, Kanati Fork, and Loop trails. Toms Branch Road near Deep Creek is also closed.

The Deep Creek Campground and Picnic Area are not scheduled to open for the season until April 15. 

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