Archived Outdoors

Trail work at Alum Cave results in temporary closures

out alumA two-year trail restoration project began this week on Alum Cave Trail in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, meaning that the trail and associated parking areas will be closed on weekdays through Nov. 19.

The area will remain open on federal holidays and weekends from 5:30 p.m. Thursdays to 7 a.m. Mondays. 

The planned work will improve overall trail safety and protect natural resources by repairing historic cable and handrail systems, reinforcing hanging trail sections, reducing trail braiding and improving drainage to prevent further erosion. Restoration of fragile trail sections will also prevent the erosion and small landslides that have happened during inclement weather. 

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