U.S. Forest Rangers are still assessing the damage caused by Hurricane Helene in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest. The storm brought widespread flooding, road and trail washouts, fallen trees, and potential damage to bridges and infrastructure. The Chattooga River Ranger District in northeastern Georgia was particularly hard hit.
Forest Service teams are actively working to clear access to vital infrastructure, including communication sites and primary roads, in Georgia and other affected Southern Appalachian national forests.
“As critical needs are met, crews will begin to clear roads and trails to restore public access to recreation sites where conditions can be made safe for visitors,” says US Forest Service Public Affairs Officer Laura Fitzmorris. “Our highest priority is employee and visitor safety. Some of this recovery work may take weeks or months to achieve. Many sites have already been able to reopen.”
While some sites have already reopened, the Forest Service cautions that recovery efforts in some areas may take weeks or months. Visitors are urged to be patient and check for closure alerts before visiting affected areas, especially those accessing hunting areas.
Hikers on the Appalachian National Scenic Trail (A.T.) are advised to refer to the Appalachian Trail Conservancy for the latest updates on trail conditions.
