Government shutdown could mean limited access to national parks

WATAUGA COUNTY, N.C. — One of the biggest impacts of a government shutdown could be felt as early as this weekend at the national parks in the North Carolina mountains.

There are more than 400 national park sites that could close.

The Trump administration is going to "try to allow limited access wherever possible."

The recent snow has long stretches of the Blue Ridge Parkway shutdown Friday, but as temperatures warm this weekend, it is questionable if government employees will be working so they can open the gates blocking access to the drive around Grandfather Mountain.

Jeff Graham wanted to hike in the Smoky National Park this weekend, but changed his mind with the looming shutdown, deciding instead to visit a state park.

"It's disappointing for sure,” Graham said. “You want to get out there and have fun, but (it's) a little letdown."

Cross-country skier Barry Tuttle, 75, is glad he made the drive up from Charlotte to the trails around Bass Lake near Blowing Rock. He hopes an agreement in the federal government can be reached.

"I think each side has to give a little bit and not get everything they want,” he said. “I think the American public is expecting people to work together."

During the last shutdown in 2013, the Blue Ridge Parkway did remain open, but campground and visitor centers were closed during the fall leaf season.

Cox Media Group