**PRESS RELEASE**
UPDATE: LOCAL AND STATE PARTNERS COMMIT TO KEEPING GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK OPEN THROUGH NOVEMBER 2
AGREEMENT EXTENDED TO FUND CONTINUED OPERATIONS OF GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK DURING FEDERAL GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN
Blount County, Tennessee (October 17, 2025) – Joint Statement
Our local and state partners support keeping Great Smoky Mountains National Park open and in full operation through Sunday, November 2, 2025, amid the ongoing federal government shutdown.
The effort to keep the national park open is supported by Sevier County, the Cities of Gatlinburg, Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, and Pittman Center, Blount County, Cocke County, the State of Tennessee, the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development, Friends of the Smokies, and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.
Through this agreement, local and state partners will continue to ensure uninterrupted operations of the national park. While the November 2 date extends beyond a standard increment, multiple agreements will be signed over the next couple of weeks to maintain funding through Sunday, November 2, if necessary. If the federal government shutdown continues into early November, the partners plan to meet during the week of October 27–31 to discuss next steps.
This commitment ensures that Great Smoky Mountains National Park remains open and fully operational for residents and visitors, with all facilities, roadways, visitor centers, restrooms, campgrounds, and trails continuing to operate as normal.
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