This coordinated reopening includes the Nantahala and Pisgah national forest as well as the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest in Georgia, Cherokee National Forest in Tennessee and the George Washington and Jefferson national forests in Virginia. However, the Triple Crown in Virginia, which includes Dragon’s Tooth trailhead, will remain closed.

While the trails will open, restrooms and shelters will remain closed. As work to open trails and roads continues, services will be limited and there may be a delay in rescue operations — visitors should avoid high-risk recreation activities during this time.

To recreate responsibly, visitors should avoid congregating at parking areas, refrain from gathering in large groups and maintain a 6-foot distance from others, especially when passing other hikers. Practice Leave No Trace principles, including packing in all needed supplies and equipment and packing out all trash.

Find the latest recreation information for the Pisgah and Nantahala national forests at www.fs.usda.gov/nfsnc. Review recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/visitors.html.