Smokies to host walking opportunity on Foothills Parkway 'Missing Link'

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park invites the public to walk along the long-awaited new section of the Foothills Parkway on Thursday for a Community Day celebration.

Participating pedestrians will trek along the two-mile stretch between Walland and Wears Valley, experiencing the series of bridges that connect the 1.65-mile section known as the "Missing Link" before it opens to motorists and cyclists on Saturday, Nov. 10, according to a news release from the national park.

However, plan on several hours there, as the shuttle ride from Townsend will take about an hour.

“While the parkway is designed as a scenic driving experience, we wanted to provide one special opportunity for people to experience it by foot before it opens to motorists,” said Smokies Park Superintendent Cassius Cash. “We hope the public will join us for this Community Day celebration as we enjoy the beauty of the parkway and the new recreational opportunities it provides for our local residents and visitors.” 

Event depends upon weather

The event is weather-dependent. Park officials say they will let the public know by 6 p.m. on Wednesday if the event is canceled. Notifications will be made through the park website, social media, and a news release.

Participants will take a shuttle to the site from Townsend between 8 a.m. and noon.

To reach the area, participants should be prepared to walk at least two miles, round trip, along a 10-percent incline.

Some construction work may still be happening along sections of the road, "necessitating coordinated transportation to the event space," according to the news release.

The park is hosting a variety of activities at the event.

Walkers will be shuttled for one hour from the River Rat parking lot in Townsend (8435 State Highway 73) at approximately 8 a.m., 10 a.m., or noon.

Participants will have the chance to spend one to three hours on site depending on which departure time they choose.

The Friends of the Smokies will sponsor the free shuttle service via charter buses.

Participation is available on a first-come, first-served basis with anticipated service for approximately 1,000 people.

What to bring, what not to bring and what to know

Here's what participants should and shouldn't bring:

• Bring snacks and water in a small pack;
• Wear sturdy footwear;
• Dress in layers to be prepared for the outdoor event.
• Do not bring large bags, chairs or coolers;
• Portable toilets will be provided on site but please keep in mind safety hazards while walking along the roadway, which is designed for motor vehicle traffic. The park will implement safety measures to help ensure that participants remain a safe distance from the guard rails along the bridges.