Georgia's national forests, including the Chattahoochee in our area, took quite a hit from Irma, and it could take some time for the parks to recover.
U.S. Forest Service spokeswoman Judy Toppins said officials are still assessing the damage in some areas, but the number of trees damaged is huge and is impacting several trails and parks.
"We're advising folks to stay off of some parts of the national forests right now, just because those trees are still falling, limbs are still falling," Toppins said.
In a media release this week, Toppins said along with many roads, most trails are blocked by fallen trees.
"The most extensive damage was along the ridge tops of course, those high elevations, and also we saw a lot of damage on the most eastern part of our mountain forests in Rabun, Habersham and White counties," Toppins said.
She suggested people check ahead if they plan to visit one of the parks or wilderness areas.
The Georgia News Network contributed to this story.
