Are you planning a trip to the Great Smoky Mountains this week? If you want to visit the Eagle Mountain Sanctuary at Dollywood, you may need to change your plans.

Dollywood confirmed on April 19, 2026, that part of the park is closed due to damage from a strong storm. While most of the park is still open, the storm has raised safety concerns for the park’s bald eagles.

Why is Part of Dollywood Closed?

According to official communications from the Pigeon Forge destination, a powerful storm moved through the area overnight, leading to a tree falling near the Eagle Mountain Sanctuary.

The impact compromised the aviary’s netting. To ensure the safety of both the guests and the resident eagles, park officials and the American Eagle Foundation made the swift decision to restrict access to the immediate area.

What this means for your visit:

• Area Closure: The section of the park surrounding the Eagle Mountain Sanctuary is currently closed to the public.

• Show Cancellations: The popular Wings of America shows, which feature the park’s rescued eagles, have been canceled as crews work to secure the aviary.

• Bird Safety: The American Eagle Foundation is currently working to relocate the birds to their specialized facilities in Kodak, Tennessee, where they will remain until the sanctuary’s habitat is fully repaired and inspected.

Dollywood has not yet provided a specific timeline for when the sanctuary or the Wings of America shows will resume. Park management is prioritizing the health of the birds and the safety of the grounds, so we recommend checking the official Dollywood app or their social media channels for the most up-to-the-minute status updates before heading to the gate.

The Show Must Go On: What’s Still Open

While the Eagle Mountain area is off-limits, the rest of the park remains in full “spring bloom” mode. If you are currently in Pigeon Forge, there is still plenty to enjoy:

1. The Flower & Food Festival (April 18 – June 7)

You haven’t missed out on the park’s most colorful event! The annual Flower & Food Festival is in full swing. With over a million vibrant blooms, massive “Mosaiculture” floral sculptures (including the famous umbrella sky and Dolly’s mother’s Coat of Many Colors), it’s the perfect time for photos. Don’t forget to grab a Tasting Pass to sample the seasonal spring menu items located throughout the park.

READ ALSO: After 24 Years, Disney Closes Entire Theme Park Forever: What You Need to Know About the Shift to “Disney Adventure World”

2. Anticipation Builds for NightFlight Expedition

The entire park is excited about the upcoming NightFlight Expedition, a new hybrid attraction in Wildwood Grove. This ride will combine coaster thrills, dark ride storytelling, and water elements, making it one of the park’s most ambitious projects. The park has not set an exact opening date yet, but it plans to debut the attraction in early summer.

A Final Note for Travelers

Inclement weather in the Smokies is a reminder of how quickly things can change in the mountains. While it’s always disappointing to have a favorite show or attraction closed during your vacation, the staff at Dollywood and the American Eagle Foundation are doing a fantastic job ensuring the well-being of their most famous feathered residents.

Has a sudden storm ever changed your vacation plans? Whether you were at Dollywood or another favorite theme park, we’d love to hear how you pivoted your day. Let us know in the comments below!

For the latest updates on Dollywood operations, stay tuned to our blog, and be sure to check the park’s official website for real-time information.