GATLINBURG, Tenn. — The Gatlinburg Bypass has reopened after crews cleared a major landslide that temporarily shut down the roadway inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park, according to the National Park Service.
The landslide occurred after heavy rainfall on Saturday, September 27, 2025, sending mud, debris, and rocks across the bypass and making the road impassable. Park crews and partner agencies worked quickly to remove material from the roadway and restore safe travel conditions.
What travelers should know
- Status: The Gatlinburg Bypass is open following cleanup and assessment by the National Park Service.
- Why it matters: The bypass is a key alternate route that helps visitors avoid downtown congestion, especially during peak travel periods.
- Drive smart: After major rain events, mountain roads can still have lingering hazards such as loose rock, washed debris, or slick areas.
Before you head out: check conditions
Road and trail conditions in the Smokies can change quickly due to weather. Visitors should check the park’s official updates before traveling—especially during periods of heavy rain or freezing temperatures.
Helpful official links:
Great Smoky Mountains National Park – Current Conditions
NPS News Release – Gatlinburg Bypass now open following major landslide cleanup
Source: National Park Service news release (Sept. 30, 2025) and Great Smoky Mountains National Park conditions updates.
