DAHLONEGA, GA - The Rainbow Family of Living Light (Rainbow Family) has chosen to hold its 2018 national gathering on the Blue Ridge Ranger District at Bull Mountain off Forest Service Road (FSR) 28-1 and FSR 77 near the community of Nimblewill. These gatherings can attract up to 12,000 people. The highest concentration of participants at the gathering will occur July 1-4, 2018.

To limit potential impacts from the gathering, FSR 77 is closed until further notice. To access Long Creek Falls, take FSR 58 to Three Forks Trailhead. To access Mountain Trailhead, take one of two routes: Start at Amicalola Falls State Park and take the Appalachian National Scenic Trail (AT) Approach Trail or start at Doublehead Gap Road and continue onto FSR 42.

Safety and Resource Protection

FOREST SERVICE ROADS AND TRAILS: Trail users should be aware of increased pedestrian use and exercise proper trail etiquette in sharing trails. Some trails are restricted for certain uses. Motorcycle, bicycle and horse riders and others should stay on designated trails marked specifically for their use. All trails are open to hikers.

Motorized vehicles are not allowed on trails or closed roads unless posted. Only licensed and street-legal vehicles may be operated on Forest Service roads.

PETS: To ensure the safety of your pet and other visitors, you must keep your pet on a leash and under control at all times.

HISTORICAL/CULTURAL SITES: The Forest Service protects many historical and cultural sites. Excavation and/or removal of prehistoric, historic, or archaeological resource, structure, site, artifact, or property is prohibited.

WEATHER: Exposure to high heat and humidity may cause heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Visit the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website for more information https://go.usa.gov/xUc8H.

Heavy rains can cause flash flooding and landslides. Be aware of your surroundings and conditions. Avoid low-lying areas.

PESTS/WILDLIFE: A large number of ticks have been reported in the area. Many species carry Lyme disease or Rocky Mountain spotted fever or cause meat allergies. Avoid tall grass and brush and stay on trails. Routinely check your hair and body. To remove a tick, follow advice from the CDC at https://go.usa.gov/xUc87.

Several cases of rabies have been reported in surrounding counties. Please be wary of wildlife that is acting in an unusual or uncharacteristic manner. If you are bitten by a wild animal, please visit the nearest medical center.

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