Please check out www.appalachiantrail.org/updates for the latest updates regarding the impact Hurricane Sandy has had on the Appalachian Trail.
Hurricane Sandy will have major impacts on the Appalachian National Scenic Trail particularly in the Mid-Atlantic and Southern New England states. If you had planned to hike this week, postpone your plans. If you are hiking now, use extreme caution during and following the storm. Please honor the closures below by exiting the Trail. Impacts from flooding and tree damage from high winds are likely to be extensive. Small stream crossings will become extremely hazardous with rainfall exceeding 6-to-8 inches in some locations. Emergency response may be delayed or nonexistent due to heavily taxed resources and access issues. Cell and electronic communications may not be available for an extended period. In some areas of the trail, users should be prepared for the potential of snow accumulation that could hinder foot travel and hasten the threat for hypothermia or frostbite. Hikers should always remember their obligations to potential rescuers, and stay safe and out of trouble. This is your responsibility!
Several areas that the Appalachian Trail passes through have been closed or have issued alerts. Pay attention to local agency closures and weather alerts for more information. Known closures:
NH White Mountain National Forest http://www.fs.usda.gov/whitemountain
VT Green Mountain National Forest http://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/greenmountain/alerts-notices/?aid=15249
New York State parks www.governor.ny.gov
NYDEC (state forests) http://nynjtc.org/content/catskill-trails-updates
New Jersey State Parks http://www.state.nj.us/dep/parksandforests/
Maryland State Parks: http://news.maryland.gov/dnr/2012/10/28/maryland-state-parks-closing-for-hurricane-sandy/
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area: http://www.nps.gov/dewa/index.htm
Pennsylvania State Forests (Michaux SF): www.dcnr.state.pa.us/forestry/stateforests/michaux/index.htm
C&O National Historical Park: www.facebook.com/chesapeakeandohiocanal
www.nps.gov/choh
Harpers Ferry National Historical Park: www.nps.gov/hafe
Shenandoah National Park: www.nps.gov/shen
Great Smoky Mountains National Park: http://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/temproadclose.htm
Monitor National Weather Service for up-to-date forecasts and local conditions as well as agency websites for closures and advisories. Be prepared with extra food, water, batteries, clothing and find adequate shelter during the storm.
Special Note to A.T. Maintainers: Please do not venture into the woods until any damage has time to settle, and follow local agency closures and permissions before venturing out. As you learn more, please let your ATC staff know about conditions on the Trail.