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Navigating The Blue Ridge Parkway During The Shutdown

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By NPT Staff - January 11th, 2019
The Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center in Asheville is currently closed due to the government shutdown/Photo by Vicki Dameron

The Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center in Asheville is currently closed due to the government shutdown. Photo by Vicki Dameron

Editor's note: The following comes from the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation.

As the government shutdown continues, we want to share information about the impact on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Here are answers to some of the questions we've heard most frequently from our Community of Stewards.

Why are some sections of the road closed and others open?

Before the shutdown, several sections of the Parkway were already closed due to poor road conditions created by a storm that took down many trees. Work to reopen these areas stopped when government employees were furloughed, therefore many gates remain shut.

Can I walk on the closed sections of the Parkway?

Yes. You can use the Parkway like a greenway for walking, cycling, and cross-country skiing.

Is the Real Time Road Closures Map up to date?

No. Because staff is reduced to positions deemed essential, the Real Time Road Closure Map for the Parkway is not being updated.

Which National Park Service staff members are active?

Employees considered essential to operations remain on the job, including Law Enforcement rangers.

How can I help?

You can make it easier for rangers to get the park up and running when they return by taking care of the Parkway. During your visit, be sure to leave no trace in the park. If you pack an item in, please pack it out, including toilet paper, food wrappers, etc.

You can also make sure everyone can continue to enjoy the park by following some simple rules.

  • Keep dogs on a leash at all times. It may be a great time to explore the road and trails, but unpleasant animal encounters can spoil the fun and end in injuries to people and pets.
  • Play it safe. Don’t take unnecessary risks that can hurt you, other Parkway visitors, or endanger the rangers who may have to come to rescue you. Trail safety information
  • Stay on the trails to minimize any environmental damage.
  • Follow the speed limits. Driving safety information

More to Explore

Another idea is to explore parks and attractions near the Parkway that are not subject to the partial shutdown, including:

Thank you for taking care of the Blue Ridge Parkway!

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