Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The National Park Service plans to burn approximately 180 acres in Wear Cove Gap (north of Metcalf Bottoms) and 243 acres in Lynn Hollow (near the Top of the World community) in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Weather permitting, burn operations may begin as early as March 25 and may continue through March 31. These prescribed fires will help to safely reduce fuels, maintain resilient natural systems and protect communities along the park boundary.

As spring approaches, Great Smoky Mountains National Park reminds visitors of group size limits during the popular wildflower season at Whiteoak Sink. Individuals and small groups of eight or fewer people may access the Whiteoak Sink area throughout the wildflower season from April 1 through May 3.

The National Park Service welcomed Charles D. Sellars as the superintendent of Great Smoky Mountains National Park during an Assumption of Responsibility ceremony held in the park on March 4. The ceremony marking the transition of leadership brought together National Park Service leadership, tribal leaders, park partners, community leaders and park employees.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is seeking individuals to join the Elk Rover volunteer team for the wildlife upcoming season. Elk Rovers share information with visitors about safe viewing and help keep elk and visitors safe. Elk Rovers will be stationed at the Oconaluftee Visitor Center, located near Cherokee, North Carolina.

Beginning on Jan. 23 at 7 p.m., Great Smoky Mountains National Park will close several access points to the park due to an incoming winter storm. These will remain in effect until staff can safely assess conditions.