The National Park Service, RATC and other partners are conducting a use study for McAfee and other sites along the "Triple Crown" section of the AT.
More info, and a chance to comment can be found here: https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories...1f199e59b747fc.
As many of you may know, McAfee and other sites on this section of Trail have seen a significant increase in use that started even before the "lockdowns" in 2020. On busy days, the viewpoints are thronged with visitors; and many are unprepared for the hike, or have any understanding of appropriate backcountry conduct. Rather than just shutting down access, the Park Service and local partners have engaged in a planning effort that will hopefully result in preserving these iconic locations while supporting access for visitors--both day visitors and backpackers.
Check out the site for an excellent overview (as it were) of the issues and concerns, and follow the link to include your comments. Input from current, former and future long distance hikers, as well as folks that simply want to enjoy this amazing part of the outdoors now and in the future are welcome to share their thoughts.
Cosmo