While the majority of United States national parks have closed their doors due to the recent closure of the federal governmenthe Great Smoky Mountains National Park continues to receive visitors. Thanks to an extraordinary financing agreement, this emblematic natural site continues to operate, although with limited services.
The park, located between Tennessee y North Carolinahas become an example of cooperation between local and state authorities and community organizations that decided to join forces to prevent tourism and the region’s economy from being affected.
Local agreement to keep the park open
According to Business Insiderhe Great Smoky Mountains National Park managed to stay open thanks to an alliance between the state of Tennesseeseveral counties, the organization Friends of the Smokies and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. These entities agreed to provide funds to temporarily cover operating costs during the government shutdown.
The financing has made it possible to maintain open roads, trails, camps y public toiletsas well as garbage collection and basic security in the busiest areas. However, some services are reduced: visitor centers, shops and educational programs at the National Park Service (NPS) remain closed or with minimal staff.
According to official reports, the initial agreement was valid until October 10, but was recently extended to guarantee the operation of the park. until October 19depending on the duration of the federal budget closure.
The measure seeks not only to protect the natural environment, but also to safeguard tourism income, which represents a vital economic source for neighboring communities.
The government shutdown and its impact on national parks
The current closure of federal government has caused the suspension of thousands of employees of the National Park Servicewhich has forced the closure of most of the protected areas managed by the NPS. Without operational staff, parks cannot provide basic cleaning, security, or facility maintenance services, posing a risk to both visitors and ecosystems.
In previous crises, such as those of 2018 and 2019, several parks suffered environmental damage and vandalism due to a lack of surveillance. For this reason, many states have chosen to close accesses preventively. However, the case of Great Smoky Mountains demonstrates that local agreements can be an effective temporary alternative while budget disputes persist in Washington.
A natural treasure between Tennessee and North Carolina
He Great Smoky Mountains National Park is he most visited national park in the United Stateswith more than 13 million people a year. Its name comes from the bluish mist that covers its mountains and valleys, creating unique landscapes. Throughout its more than 200,000 hectares, visitors can enjoy hiking trails, waterfalls, scenic routes and a great diversity of flora and fauna.
Among its main attractions are Clingmans Domethe highest point of the park with spectacular panoramic views, the Laurel Fallsthe historic town of Cades Cove and the tours of the Appalachian Trailsideal for hikers.
In addition, the park serves as a habitat for emblematic species such as the black bear and the white tail deer. Its free accessibility and its strategic location between two states make it an essential destination within the national park system.
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