DAMASCUS, Va. (WJHL) — The iconic Virginia Creeper Trail is set to fully reopen to the public on March 31, 2027, as announced by the U.S. Forest Service.
The Forest Service shared in a statement on Thursday that this reopening timeline allows adequate time for the repaired trail to stabilize during the winter months, promising a safe and enjoyable experience as the spring recreation season kicks off.
“This trail is part of the heartbeat of our community,” expressed Ed Wright, district ranger for the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area. “Ensuring the trail is safe and ready for the community is central to our work. When you see how much the town depends on the trail, knowing that it’s up to us to get it repaired and reopened responsibly, it’s an incredible responsibility.”
A devastating blow struck in September 2024 when Hurricane Helene destroyed approximately 17 miles of the path stretching between Damascus and White Mountain.
The section between Abingdon and Damascus was reopened around two weeks after the hurricane hit.
Last November, the U.S. Forest Service awarded Kiewit Corporation a $240 million contract to rebuild the destroyed portion of the trail.