Overmountain Shelter update
As many are aware, The Barn aka Overmountain Shelter has been closed for several years. It has been determined to be unsafe for occupancy. Basically, due to freeze/thaw cycles at this elevation, it is leaning. TN Eastman Hiking & Canoeing Club (TEHCC) has been maintaining the structure for years but it is now beyond our ability to maintain.
Currently there is a proposal to tear the shelter down. Beginning on Monday, 23 January, there will be an open public comment period for 20 days. On Wednesday, 25 January at 7:00pm, a virtual meeting will be held for further discussions.
The site itself is still open to camping and is one of the premier sites on the AT offering outstanding views. A picnic pavilion is being proposed to replace the shelter.
A video with more info about the shelter conditions and links to the meeting and public comments section can be found here: https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/nfsnc...=FSEPRD1085167.
See you on the trail,
mt squid