tThe U.S. Forest Service has issued fire restrictions for a portion of the Appalachian Trail through the Mount Rogers High Country in southwest Virginia, citing elevated fire danger in the area.
The restriction applies within a quarter mile of the AT as it passes through the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area. Appalachian Trail Conservancy identifies the affected section between Beech Mountain Road and Massie Gap, NOBO miles 489.4 to 502.4.
Image: USDA Forest Service (fountain)
Under the order, hikers are prohibited from building, maintaining, tending or using a fire, campfire or stove. Commercially available fuel stoves, including propane camping stoves, enclosed lanterns, and isobutane backpacking stoves, are still permitted, although hikers are urged not to leave them unattended and to ensure they are completely turned off after use.
The affected stretch includes approximately 12 miles of the AT through the Mount Rogers High Country, near Virginia’s highest peak. The Forest Service noted that the area contains rare and at-risk southern Appalachian spruce and spruce forests, an ecosystem that supports plants and animals found in few other places.
The ATC also pointed to the lingering remnants of Hurricane Helene as a cause for concern, saying downed trees and other fuels could allow wildfires to spread rapidly in the area. Beyond the official restriction zone, ATC strongly urges hikers to avoid campfires anywhere between Davenport Gap and New River in Pearisburg, Virginia, NOBO miles 239.4 to 637.8, due to widespread damage related to Helene.
The Forest Service says the restrictions went into effect immediately on May 11 and will remain in effect until the Forest Supervisor rescinds them. Hikers should check current trail updates from the Forest Service and ATC before heading to the Mount Rogers area.
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