Exact dates will depend on weather, but the burn could begin as early as March 18 and will continue intermittently, possibly through mid-April. It’s part of a multi-year prescribed burn project to open up the oak woodlands on upper slopes and ridges in the Cataloochee area. 

“This series of burns will reduce the number of fire-sensitive trees and shrubs while increasing the regeneration of oak and yellow pines along with increasing the cover and diversity of native grasses and wildflowers,” said Wildland Fire Module Leader Shane Paxton. “Over time, this increase in herbaceous vegetation on the forest floor will improve forage for elk, which graze the nearby meadows.” 

The burn, to be conducted by park staff, is funded by the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation. The unpaved Wood Creek section of Cataloochee Entrance Road, beyond the Pretty Hollow Gap Trailhead, will be closed to vehicles during the burn, but all trails will remain open.