">
Appalachian Trail Damaged, Standing Bear Hostel Evacuated Amid Flash Flooding
Thru-hikers navigating the Tennessee/North Carolina state line section of the Appalachian Trail are facing hazardous conditions due to a recent microburst storm. The severe weather event has caused extensive local flooding and a possible rockslide along Interstate 40, directly impacting the AT corridor.
Although 12.5 miles of the trail were initially closed and described as “impassable,” the Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC) indicates that the trail has now reopened.
“Reports this morning indicate that the AT is passable, but likely saw severe damage and erosion in some spots,” reads a June 19 update from the ATC. “The AT is open in this area, but hikers should exercise extreme caution and watch out for heavy equipment, especially along roads and around the Interstate 40 overpass. Backpackers, section hikers, and day hikers may want to consider hiking elsewhere until repairs are complete.”
The affected area is from approximately Davenport Gap (NOBO mile 239.4) to Brown Gap/Forest Service Road 148A (NOBO mile 251.9). Interstate I-40 is also closed in both directions from the the Hartford Exit 447 to Harmon Den, further complicating any logistical or resupply efforts.
The flooding following the microburst near Standing Bear Farm Hostel. Photo via Standing Bear Farm Hostel
Impact on Local Businesses Following Microburst
The flooding has directly impacted nearby hostels and businesses. Standing Bear Farm Hostel near Newport, TN was hit hard by the flash flood. According to a recent update from the hostel, all hikers, staff, and dogs were successfully rescued by first responders after a terrifying night.
The floodwaters were immense. “In 20 minutes our babbling wrap-around creeks turned into rushing rivers of mud, rocks, and debris. Water started to flood all of our buildings. The hiker’s bunkhouse, cabin, and others were several feet underwater. The stage, portal patties, & propane tank floated away,” according to the hostel’s initial update.
A subsequent announcement on Facebook revealed that the hostel has regained wifi and electricity but still lacks running water. “What we need more than anything right now is volunteers,” the hostel wrote. Also: “Mud and water have overtaken the property, and we’re in urgent need of hands to help dig out and dry out. This place has welcomed thousands of travelers with warmth, comfort, and Appalachian spirit — now it’s time to give back.”
The hostel is also in need of shovels, buckets, mops, gloves, and cleaning supplies, as well as 4×4 vehicles and drivers to access the hostel via backroads.
If you’re unable to make it in person, you can donate to support Standing Bear’s recovery efforts on GoFundMe.
Always consult the most current official sources for trail conditions. For the latest updates and detour information, visit the Appalachian Trail website.
Featured Photo via Standing Bear Farm Hostel
This website contains affiliate links, which means The Trek may receive a percentage of any product or service you purchase using the links in the articles or advertisements. The buyer pays the same price as they would otherwise, and your purchase helps to support The Trek's ongoing goal to serve you quality backpacking advice and information. Thanks for your support!
To learn more, please visit the About This Site page.
Comments 1
While I admire the Thru Hikers I wonder often if the destination or the next few steps hold the thrall. I love hiking but sauntering and stopping to study the minutiae along the way is slows me to only a few miles each day. While visiting Watkins Glen in New York State while I rested I noticed that some of the pebbles beside the well kept foot path resembled shingle that I have seen beneath water fountains in Tennessee and along the beaches on the coast of Maine.