Great Smoky Mountain National Park to begin opening on Saturday

This Saturday, Great Smoky Mountain National Park will begin a phased reopening when many roads and trails open to visitors once again. “The health and safety of employees, partners, volunteers, visitors, and local residents remains the highest priority in park reopening decisions,” the park said in a press release.

The park will implement new safety measures to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. Campgrounds, picnic pavilions, visitor centers and many secondary roads will remain closed during the first reopening phase. Park officials ask the public to follow health orders, avoid crowding, practice Leave No Trace principles and avoid high-risk outdoor activities. 

West Virginia anglers can fish for free through May 31

Governor Jim Justice has announced that West Virginia residents can fish for free for another month. The requirement to possess a fishing license to fish in state-regulated waters