Hiking Trails Close for Wildfire Prevention
Planning a hike in North Carolina? Pisgah and Nantahala National Forests have temporarily closed trails for the next two months due to prescribed fires [https://eu.blueridgenow.com/story/news/local/2026/03/09/trail-closures-pisgah-nantahala-national-forest-prescribed-fires/89017597007/]. This is to reduce wildfire risk, so check before you go. Meanwhile, the Blue Ridge Parkway is set to fully reopen by the end of 2026 after hurricane repairs [https://www.wsoctv.com/news/local/blue-ridge-parkway-fully-reopen-nc-by-end-2026/BSDRLS4VLFBITHPBFTTCUV72DM/].
Prescribed burns are carefully planned to reduce hazardous fuels and improve forest health. The U.S. Forest Service uses these controlled burns to minimize the risk of uncontrolled wildfires, especially during dry conditions. Firefighters consider factors like wind speed, humidity, and forest conditions before igniting a burn. These burns are strategically located across several counties. In Pisgah National Forest, areas in Transylvania, Henderson, and Haywood counties will be targeted. Nantahala National Forest burns will occur in Jackson and Macon counties. Trail closures are implemented for public safety during active burning. A portion of the Appalachian Trail will be temporarily closed in the Deweese Unit. Closures are promptly lifted once conditions are deemed safe. North Carolina has a history of wildfires, with evidence dating back centuries. Native Americans and early settlers used controlled burning for land management. However, large-scale logging in the late 1800s, coupled with fire suppression policies, led to increased wildfire risk. The Blue Ridge Parkway's closure after Hurricane Helene has significantly impacted local economies. In 2022, visitors to the parkway spent nearly $1.3 billion in nearby communities, supporting 17,824 jobs. The Parkway generates an estimated $1.4 billion in annual spending and supports over 19,000 jobs. The Parkway is known for its diverse plant and animal life, spanning a wide range of elevations. Damage from Hurricane Helene impacted forested areas, waterways and trails. Roughly 16,000 acres experienced severe damage from winds. The National Park Service received over $2 billion in supplemental disaster funding for repairs. The Parkway also received $25 million from the U.S. Department of Transportation. Repairs target locations from the Virginia state line through Devil's Courthouse.
