The NC and TN tourism industry is trying hard to get the word out that there is still plenty to see and do in the Great Smoky Mountains and the surrounding areas despite of the government shutdown. Local chambers of commerce directors, visitors center staffers, waitresses, shop owners, and hotel workers want people to know the facts about what is and is not closed. The Blue Ridge Parkway is OPEN but the facilites and visitors centers are closed. US Highway 441 through the GSMNP from Gatlinburg to Cherokee is OPEN, but facilites, campgrounds, other roads, hiking trails and visitor centers are closed. The tourism industry say there is no need to stay away, just find out the facts before you hit the road. But don’t let the shutdown prevent a trip to the mountains to see the fall foliage show this year!
Where to go. What to See. Things to Do.
