Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Open Amidst Federal Shutdown

Despite the government shutdown, one national park continues to welcome visitors—Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Local Support Keeps the Park Running

Nestled within the Appalachian range, straddling both North Carolina and Tennessee, the park remains operational throughout the federal closure period as reported by NPR.

A cooperative effort by seven regional governments is behind this feat, funding the salaries of 275 full-time park employees to ensure seamless operations during the shutdown. These local administrations have collectively amassed close to $2 million to sustain the park, according to NPR's findings.

Vice Mayor Bryan McCarter of Sevier County emphasized to NPR the critical role the park plays in boosting local tourism and underpinning the area's economy, prompting their decision to bear much of the upkeep costs.

Federal Stalemate Triggers Shutdown

The impasse in Washington, DC, beginning October 1st, materialized after congressional disagreements over the national budget between Republicans and Democrats.

National Park Service Prepares for Shutdown

Reflecting on a National Park Service document from September 2025, contingency measures included plans to temporarily release 9,296 employees—a significant portion of its workforce, roughly two-thirds—if a shutdown occurred.

This plan stipulated that park areas such as roads, viewing points, pathways, and certain open-air memorials would mostly remain accessible for public enjoyment. However, facilities typically locked when not in operation would stay closed throughout the shutdown.

Furthermore, the administration stated that national parks' social media channels and websites would not be operational, except in urgent situations.

Attempts to obtain remarks from park representatives were not successful according to Business Insider's report.