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