GATLINBURG, Tenn. (WVLT) - Some key areas of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park will stay open through early 2026, even during the federal government shutdown. Representatives for Sevier County made the announcement Friday morning, marking a continuation in a massive partnership to keep the country’s most-visited national park operating.

“Since the federal government shutdown began in early October, state and local partners have provided funding to maintain full operations of Great Smoky Mountains National Park,” a news release from the county said. “As the shutdown enters November, these partners have agreed to continue supporting the park to ensure that key areas remain open to the public through Sunday, Jan. 4, 2026, if the shutdown continues.”

Partners had previously put a plan

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