09/09/2025
Just an FYI for those of you who might be thinking of riding up to Whitetop Mountain.
Whitetop Road in the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area will be closed for road reconstruction beginning September 8 for approximately 30 days. There is a possibility the closure could be delayed due to weather conditions. The temporary closure is from the intersection of State Route 600 to the summit of Whitetop Road.
“Whitetop Road was severely impacted by Hurricane Helene. The three miles of road work will repair the hurricane damage and provide safe and reliable access for the long-term," said Area Ranger Edward Wright.
Whitetop Trailhead (AT Mile Post 492.8) and the Whitetop Mountain Observation Point will be closed during the road reconstruction project. The Appalachian Trail will remain open where it crosses Whitetop Road. Be aware of posted signage and exercise caution.
Alternative Trail Access Points
• Elk Garden Trailhead: Located on State Route 600, approximately 1.3 miles away from the Whitetop Road turn-off. This trailhead provides access to the Appalachian Trail at Mile Post: 489.4. (Lat/Long: 36.646348, -81.583335)
• Beach Mountain Trailhead: Located on Beach Mountain Road (State Route 601), approximately 7.8 miles from the Whitetop Road turn-off. (Lat/Long: 36.637279, -81.640402)
For your safety and to support restoration efforts, please respect the closure signs and avoid the closed area until it is officially reopened. For details and updates, visit the “Alerts” page on the forest website at https://www.fs.usda.gov/r08/gwj/alerts or contact the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area at 276-783-5196 or by email at [email protected].
