Popular Southwest Virginia Camping And Hiking Areas Closed Due To Bear Activity

If you have ever camped in Southwest Virginia’s Mount Rogers Recreation Area, and the Appalachian Trail you are aware of its lure for campers. But, for the time being you may have to pick another spot for you camping pleasures as 20 thousand acres and almost 17 miles of the Appy Trail have been closed due to increased human interactions with black bears. The closure affects camping areas in Grayson and Smyth Counties including Thomas Knob, The Scales, Old Orchard Shelter and nearly 17 miles along the Forest Trail number one area. Horseback and hiking on the trails will still be permitted. Park officials are looking at ways to limit bear activity and hope to reopen the areas as soon as possible.