Joyce Kilmer and Jenkins Meadow Trailheads Closed Week of June 23 for Road, Parking Lot Repairs

ROBBINSVILLE, N.C., June 23, 2025 – Roadwork and needed parking lot repairs has forced the USDA Forest Service to temporarily close the Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest and Jenkins Meadow trailheads on the Nantahala National Forest, beginning the week of June 23.  

During construction, the Forest Service will close Joyce Kilmer Road (Forest Service Road 416), which provides access to both trailheads. Work should take approximately three to five days but could be extended by weather delays. 

The public still has several options to access to the Joyce Kilmer-Slickrock Wilderness in North Carolina through other locations, including the Haoe Lead, Slickrock Creek, Deep Creek, Big Fat Gap, Wolf Laurel, Stratton Bald and Beech Gap trailheads.  

“We recognize that this is a popular time to visit the Joyce Kilmer Memorial Trail. That’s why are working closely with contractors to ensure we reopen the area as soon as possible,” District Ranger Brian Browning said. “We apologize for any inconvenience and thank our visitors for their patience while we finish these repairs.”

For the latest information on road closures, visit https://www.fs.usda.gov/r08/northcarolina or follow the National Forests in North Carolina on Facebook.