NPS - National Park Service
10/09/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 10/09/2026 13:56
Great Smoky Mountains to Close U.S. 441/Newfound Gap Road Beginning Oct. 9 at 8 p.m. Due to Strong Winds Associated with Hurricane Isaias
News Release Date: October 9, 2026
Contact:Great Smoky Mountains National Park
GATLINBURG, Tenn.-Beginning today, Oct. 9 at 8 p.m., Great Smoky Mountains National Park will close U.S. 441/Newfound Gap Road due to expected strong winds associated with Hurricane Isaias and the potential for downed trees and debris. Additionally, Balsam Mountain Campground will close today at 5 p.m.
The park advises visitors to prepare for weather impacts from Hurricane Isaias this weekend. The National Weather Service has issued a high wind warning for the area beginning Oct. 9 with potential for 70 mph wind gusts forecast on the Tennessee side of the park. Moderate rainfall is expected across the park.
For those looking for an alternative to Balsam Mountain Campground, campsites are available at Smokemont and Deep Creek campgrounds.
All visitors are urged to monitor weather conditions, stay up to date with park alerts and use caution while traveling or recreating in the park. For the latest information on current conditions and closures, visit the park's current conditions webpage.
nps.gov
About the National Park Service. Established in 1916, the National Park Service preserves America's most treasured natural and cultural places for the enjoyment, education and inspiration of current and future generations. Learn more at nps.gov.
NPS - National Park Service published this content on October 09, 2026, and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed via Public Technologies (PUBT), unedited and unaltered, on October 09, 2026 at 19:56 UTC. If you believe the information included in the content is inaccurate or outdated and requires editing or removal, please contact us at [email protected]