Planning a trip to the Smoky Mountains or already have one booked? Here’s the good news: the mountains are still open. The fall colors, fresh mountain air, and local attractions are here waiting for you. The current federal government shutdown has limited some park services, but most of what travelers love about the Smokies is still fully available.
The Smokies Are OPEN During the Government Shutdown
Yes, the government is shut down. But the mountains are still open. Roads, trails, waterfalls, and the famous fall colors are here for you. Gatlinburg, Sevierville, and Pigeon Forge are alive with shows, shopping, and dining.
Some areas are closed, including Sugarlands and Cades Cove Visitor Centers, Cades Cove Loop Road, and a few picnic areas. Ranger programs and staffed services are also paused. The reason people travel here, the colors, the drives, and the mountain views, remain untouched.
Local, state, and tribal partners are working with the National Park Service to restore full operations as quickly as possible. The Smokies are the most visited national park in the United States and vital to our fall season.
What’s Open for Your Visit
Scenic Drives & Fall Colors: Roads like Newfound Gap Road and Roaring Fork remain open, giving you easy access to breathtaking mountain views.
Trails & Wildlife: Many hiking trails are still open, so you can enjoy waterfalls, wildlife sightings, and crisp autumn hikes.
Local Fun: Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville are unaffected by the shutdown. From Dollywood to dinner shows to cozy cabin stays, all the restaurants, attractions, and shops are open for business.
What’s Limited in the National Park
Some services and facilities are closed until full operations are restored. Current closures include:
- Cades Cove Loop Road, Picnic Area, and Visitor Center
- Sugarlands Visitor Center
- Chimneys Picnic Area
- Straight Fork and part of Balsam Mountain Road
- Park Headquarters Road and part of the Gatlinburg Trail
- Old NC 284 from Cataloochee Creek to Cataloochee Valley
Visitor centers may be closed and services like staffed restrooms and water stations may be limited, so plan ahead before heading into the park.
Why Your Trip Is Still Worth It
Fall is one of the most beautiful times of the year in the Smokies. The leaves are turning brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold, and the views stretch for miles. Even with a few closures, there is more than enough open to make your trip unforgettable. And remember, the towns surrounding the park, Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville, are full of attractions, shows, shopping, and dining that are completely unaffected by the shutdown.
Stay Updated
The situation may change, so before you head out, check the National Park Service Alerts Page for the latest updates.
Bottom line: The Smoky Mountains are open. The mountains, the colors, and the memories are waiting for you.
