Forest fire near Buchanan grows

A forest fire burning near Buchanan has more than doubled in 24 hours.

The U.S. Forest Service says the flames are burning in the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests.  Forest Service workers say the fire has scorched 505 acres as off 9:45 Friday night.  They’re calling it the Cove Creek Fire.

The flames have shut down several trails:

• Appalachian Trail from Bear Wallow Gap to Jennings Creek
• Little Cove Mountain Trail
• Dispersed camping off McFalls Creek Road (FDR 3068), including Harkening Hills has been closed

The Glenwood Horse Trail is also now closed from Rt. 43 to Rt. 618.
Also, avoid Route 43 from Buchanan to the Blue Ride Parkway.

U.S. Forest Service, National Park Service, Virginia Department of Forestry, Botetourt County firefighters, and VDOT workers are helping to contain the fire.