A severe fire in late 2016 led to closure of many trails in the Great Smoky Mountains , including in the Chimney Tops area . The trail reopened in October 2017 , with a new observation area that offers a place to view both of the bare rock points at the summit . However , due to the extreme heat of the fires , access is no longer permitted
severe fire
2016 Great Smoky Mountains wildfires
Chimney Tops