A wildfire in Great Smoky Mountains National Park has grown to 45.8 acres with around 50% of the fire line secured since it was first reported to the park on Sunday, March 22nd.
According to the National Park Service, the Rabbit Creek Fire near the Rabbit Creek Trail and northwest of Backcountry Campsite 16 was first reported Sunday afternoon. The fire reached 45.8 acres on Monday, though cooler temperatures helped firefighters make continuous progress. No structures were threatened as of last update.
Public safety closures include the Rabbit Creek Trail from Abrams Creek Campground to Hannah Mountain Trail, Cooper Road Trail from Abrams Creek Campground to Little Bottoms Trail, Backcountry Campsite 16 (Scott Gap), and Abrams Creek Campground Road (closed so fire crew can safely stage equipment and access the burn).
The Rabbit Creek Fire is not associated with any planned prescribed burns at Lynn Hollow and Wear Cover Gap. An investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing. Head to Great Smoky Mountains National Park website for further updates.
