New agreement extends Smokies opening amid shutdown
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Sevier County has signed an addendum with the U.S. Department of the Interior and the National Park Service to continue funding full operations of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park during the ongoing federal government shutdown. This effort is supported through a partnership that includes the cities of Gatlinburg, Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, and Pittman Center, Blount County, Cocke County, the State of Tennessee, the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development, Friends of the Smokies and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.
The original agreement, signed on Oct. 3, 2025, established a framework for local and state partners to provide funding in seven-day increments, maintaining a two-day balance in the donation account at all times to ensure uninterrupted operations. The agreement remains in effect for 30 days from the date of final signature or until terminated in accordance with its provisions.
A newly signed addendum extends the funding for an additional ten-day period, ensuring that Great Smoky Mountains National Park will remain open and fully operational through Sunday, Oct. 19.
The local and state partners are committed to working together to keep Great Smoky Mountains National Park open through the end of October, while closely monitoring developments on the federal level regarding the status of the government shutdown.
This agreement ensures that Great Smoky Mountains National Park will continue to welcome visitors with all facilities, roadways, visitor centers, restrooms, campgrounds, and trails operating as normal.
