The Gatlinburg Bypass remains closed as cleanup from landslide continues

  GATLINBURG, Tenn.—The Gatlinburg Bypass in Great Smoky Mountains National Park remains closed as crews continue cleanup efforts following a significant landslide that occurred the morning of Saturday, Sept. 27

Crews worked through Saturday and Sunday to remove more than 70 loads of debris from the road. Crews continue working to clear debris from the road drainage, ditches, and a culvert, which is currently blocked. 

The park will provide an update once the site is fully stabilized and the road is ready for public use.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park remains open. Visitors can still access the Sugarlands area via US441 through Gatlinburg.  

A total of 3.47 inches of rain fell between 10–11:30 a.m. that morning, triggering the slide, which included mud, trees and other debris. The landslide covered approximately 150 feet of roadway with 1 to 4 feet of mud and debris, blocking both lanes of travel.

The park is grateful for the assistance provided by the City of Gatlinburg, Sevier County, and the City of Sevierville in response to this event.

Learn about some of the area history and have fun!

 

GATLINBURG, Tenn.—Where heritage meets hands-on history—experience the rich traditions of Appalachian Mountain life at the annual Mountain Life Festival, happening Sept. 20 at the Mountain Farm Museum, located just behind the Oconaluftee Visitor Center in Cherokee, NC.

Running from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., this free, family-friendly event offers a unique opportunity to explore the cultural heritage of the Southern Appalachian region through interactive demonstrations, live music and hands-on activities. The festival celebrates the legacy of the many families who once lived on the lands that later became Great Smoky Mountains National Park, preserving the diverse customs and skills passed down through generations.

Visitors can engage with living historians and cultural demonstrators to learn what daily life was like in the mountains. Highlights include traditional sorghum milling, hearth cooking, apple butter making, apple cider pressing, broom making, hominy preparation and demonstrations of Cherokee culture. Seasonal activities will also showcase the crafts and customs that defined autumn in the region’s past.

No reservations are required, but visitors are reminded that a parking tag is required for all vehicles parking for longer than 15 minutes. Parking tags can be obtained in advance online or at the Oconaluftee Visitor Center.