The National Park Service (NPS) is reminding truck drivers that commercial vehicles are not allowed on US 441/Newfound Gap Road in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Those who violate this rule may receive a citation and face fines of up to $5,000.
Newfound Gap Road is a narrow two-lane road with steep inclines, sharp curves, and no designated lanes or safety ramps for trucks to pull over. This makes the road unsuitable for large commercial vehicles.
Since Hurricane Helene caused severe damage to highways and other infrastructure, truck traffic on US 441/Newfound Gap Road has increased. In response, the NPS, along with local law enforcement agencies, has been manning checkpoints around the clock at both ends of the road since October 2. Their efforts have turned away more than 800 commercial trucks from using the road.
To further limit truck access, the NPS has implemented measures such as staffed checkpoints, message signs, traffic cones, and collaboration with local communities to place warning signs outside the park.
Several incidents involving large commercial vehicles have occurred, including:
- On October 3, a car hauler crashed into a wall and down an embankment, while another truck’s brakes caught fire. During the emergency response, eight semi-trucks ignored the scene and continued driving.
- On October 5, a truck towing a car hauler crossed the center line and struck an oncoming vehicle. The driver was cited for driving a commercial vehicle on a restricted road.
- On October 13, a semi-truck got stuck overnight on Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail and had to be towed out. The driver was also cited.
Commercial trucks are always banned from US 441/Newfound Gap Road and the entire park, except for a section known as the Spur. Drivers should consult North Carolina and Tennessee Department of Transportation routes and avoid relying on general-purpose mapping apps.
