Update: Our U.S. Forest Service (USFS) partners on the ground here in Georgia report that Winter Storm Fern has left downed trees, unstable footing, and other hazardous conditions along portions of the A.T. from Springer Mountain to the Georgia state line (NOBO miles 0 to 78.3).

Hikers and visitors can support efficient recovery efforts, improve safety for both themselves and crews working, and avoid the worst of the impacts by postponing trips until conditions improve, which will likely take a week or two of warmer weather. Trail crews are actively assessing conditions and working to remove storm debris, but this work takes time and requires heavy equipment and saw operations in the corridor. Work may be further delayed since some trailheads are still inaccessible. We’re coordinating closely with our USFS partners and will provide updates as conditions change. Thank you for your patience and for helping protect both the Trail and the crews working.

If you choose to visit the Trail before conditions improve, be prepared for dangerous, icy conditions into early next week, and be ready to wait for work to pause when encountering crews. Also be prepared for blowdowns that could slow your pace and look up before stopping or setting up camp. Never stop near dead, diseased, or damaged standing trees, or trees that are heavily weighed down by ice, as these can fall/snap suddenly and be extremely dangerous.

Planning to start a thru-hike in the next few days? If postponing is not possible, consider a Flip Flop thru-hike and start north of the damage. Contact us for help planning.

The Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest website also has information about storm impacts.