4.2.5

When added to other projects in the Park, construction of the Northern Shore Corridor would result in
cumulative land use impacts in the Park. Long-term indirect land use impacts outside the Park, especially in
Bryson Ciry, are expected upon completion of the Northern Shore Corridor. These impacts, when added to
the development expected in Bryson City and Cherokee and in Swain, Graham and surrounding counties
under current trends, would result in greater cumulative impacts to the study area than would other
alternatives, but cumulative land use impacts would still be somewhat localized in nature. Overall
development in the region is limited due to the large percentage of land under public ownership.
4.2.4.3 Options to Address Potential Impacts
The GMP establishes broad management strategies for the Park. These strategies, along with Park
operational decisions, could be used to manage the impacts to backcountry use in the vicinity of the Partial-
Build Alternative to Bushnell or Northern Shore Corridor.
4.2.5 Visitor Use and Experience
This section documents the impacts that the detailed study alternatives would have on the visitor use and
experience of GSMNP, including the segments of the AT within the Park. The GSMNP recorded 2004
recreation visitation of 9.2 million (NPS 2005a). The highest recorded GSMNP visitation occurred in ] 999
when there were ] 0.3 million visitors, with lower levels of recreation visitation recorded in recent years.
However, recreation visits to GSMNP have trended upwards over the long-term, despite similar periodic
declines, and this long-term upward trend in visitation is expected to continue. More information on
GSMNP visitation trends is presented in the Regional Economic Impacts Technical Report (Appendix F).
Accarding to the GSMNP GMP, the Park manages the portion of the study area within its jurisdiction as
primarily "Natural Environment - Type I" subzone. There is a pocket of "Natural Environment - Type IP'
subzone near Proctor at the Hazel Creek embayment and a linear designation of "Natural Environment -
Type II" subzone following Noland Creek. Lake View Road and Fontana Dam are managed as
"Transportation" subzones. Prior to the existing Lake View Road tunnel, there is a small pocket of land
classified as "General Park Development" subzone. This location is the future site of a day-use area. It also
would be the location of the Laurel Branch Picnic Area.
Hiking and backcountry camping are allowed in the "Natural" management zones, with the "Natural
Environment - Type II" subzone designating areas of cemetery and utiliry access roads, stables, and paved,
or heavily used trails. Public road access is allowed in the "Transportation" subzone. Picnic areas, camping
areas, lodging areas, interpretive centers, major parking areas, Park operational and maintenance facilities,
and staff housing are allowed in the "General Park Development" subzone. Additional information on these
management zones is included in Land Use (Existing and Future), Section 3.2.2. Information on the
management of GSMNP with regards to the recommended Wilderness designation, the backcountry permit
system, and the need for and use of administrative roads is discussed in Parkland, National Forest, and
Recreational Facilities, Section 3.2.5. Detailed information on changes to the management zones and the
Clarification of the term "baseline" for this project:
The Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell and the Northern Shore Corridor include a baseline route, as well as options to that route.
Baseline routes and options are detailed in Section 2.5 and shown on Figure 2-8. Baseline routes have been compared to existing
conditions. Impact analyses for the options are shown as a difference from the associated baseline route.
Environmental Consequences — 4-55
North Shore Road Final Environmental Impact Statement

future potential consideration of wilderness designation is included in Land Use, Section 42.4. Cemetery
visitation is discussed in Cultural Resources, Section 4.2.8.
4.2.5.1 Methodology for Assessing Impacts to Visitor Use and Experience
In addition to recreational resources, the Park is the keeper of intangible resources. The Park provides
opportunities for urbanized people to experience sanctuary, wilderness, solitude, and a respite from the
impacts of modem technological society. In addition, folklore, literature, and music contribute to tell the
stories of both Native American and Euro-American peoples, connecting one generation to another (NPS,
GSMNP 2001). This impact analysis addresses the visitor use and experience related to GSMNP and the
portions of the AT located within GSMNP.
Existing visitor activities and experiences include the following:
■ backcountry camping,
■ hiking,
■ horse use,
■ the AT,
■ fishing,
■ interpretive opporiunities,
■ scenic/driving opportunities,
■ nature study,
■ photography,
■ wildlife viewing,
■ a sense of wildness and solitude, and
■ nostalgia and refuge (including a connection to the past and a sense of place).
Based on the November 2004 agreement between GSMNP and the BMTA, portions of the BMT through
GSMNP would be relocated in any locations where Lakeshore Trail would be eliminated by an alternative.
This agreement was signed with the understanding that while trail impacts would be addressed in the EIS far
the existing Lakeshore Trail, impacts to the BMT would not be separately addressed. More information on
the BMT is included in Benton MacKaye Trail, Section 3.2.53.
Impacts to visitor use and experience were analyzed according to the criteria defined below. The criteria
used were visitor type, visitor experience goals, context, duration, and intensiry of the impact. An impact can
Clarification of the term "baseline" for this project:
The Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell and the Northern Shore Corridor include a baseline route, as well as options to that route.
Baseline routes and options are detailed in Section 2.5 and shown on Figure 2-8. Baseline routes have been compared to existing
conditions. Impact analyses for the options are shown as a difference from the associated baseline route.
Environmental Consequences — 4-56
North Shore Road Final Environmental Impact Statement

have both adverse and beneficial aspects. For visitor use and experience, this largely depends on the
perspective of the visitor with relation to the experience and associated impact.
Visitor Types
Determining whether impacts are adverse or beneficial was based on the perspective of the individual visitor.
Three visitor types -- passive, casual, and active -- were used to differentiate between adverse and beneficial
impacts and are defined below. Visitor experience relates to the Park's purpose and significance as a place
of refuge (NPS, GSMNP 2001). In addition, the Recreation Opportunity Spectrum (ROS) Primer and Field
Guide (USFS) provides insight on the recreational opporiunities that different visitors seek and how visitors
perceive solitude. Visitors could be hiking, camping, horseback riding, and/or fishing. Other experiences
could include nature study, photography, wildlife viewing, a sense of wildness and solitude, and
nostalgia/refuge. Visitors may desire a variety of experiences that may be differentiated by comfort levels,
length of stay, and the degree of accessibility, as defined below.
■ Passive visitors: Would stay in developed areas accessible by vehicle. Typically, these visitors would
only exit their vehicles for a short period of time at an overlook ar visitor center. Their stays would
likely last a few hours to a day.
■ Casual visitors: In addition to experiencing the Park from their vehicles, these visitors would go on day
hikes and would camp at developed campgrounds or backcountry campsites that are easily accessible.
Casual visitors would also access the Park by boat. Visitors' preferences are for socializing and
maintaining a comfort and safety level that put them witbin easy access of modern conveniences.
Lengths of stay for these visitors can be from a few hours to a few days.
Active or backcountry visitors: Seek risks and challenges in more remote settings and rely very little on
modern conveniences. These visitors avoid visitor facilities and amenities in order to achieve a sense of
self-reliance and independence. These visitors would remain in the backcountry for a few days to a
week or mare, camping at backcountry campsites.
Context
As previously stated, the portion of the Park that is within the study area and that would be directly impacted
by the alternatives is used primarily by the casual and active visitor. Some opportunities also exist for
passive visitors. Due to the Park's status as the most-visited national park in the United States, the effects of
the alternatives may be felt by all visitor rypes and at local, regional, and national levels. Furthermore, the
AT is the nation's most famous long-distance hiking trail. AT users are primarily casual and active visitors.
Clarification of the term "baseline" for this project:
The Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell and the Northern Shore Corridor include a baseline route, as well as options to that route.
Baseline routes and options are detailed in Section 2.5 and shown on Figure 2-8. Baseline routes have been compared to existing
conditions. Impact analyses for the options are shown as a difference from the associated baseline route.
Environmental Consequences — 4-57
North Shore Road Final Environmental Impact Statement

Duration
Impacts during construction are considered to be short-term. Impacts that occur or persist post-construction
are considered to be long-term.
Intensity
No/Negligible
No impact to visitor use is expected. Impacts to campsites and/or trails would not occur. Additional visitor
amenities are not expected.
Minor
Visitor-use impacts would be minimal, with only slight effects on overall visitor experience. Impacts to
existing campsites and/or trails might occur, but would be minimal. Comparable opportunities would still be
available elsewhere in the Park with only a slight effect (beneficial or adverse) on visitor experience. Any
additional visitor amenities would be minimal.
Moderate
Impacts to visitor use would be more noticeable and could impact overall visitor experience. Impacts to
campsites and/or trails would be evident to the visitor. Comparable opportunities would still be available
elsewhere in the Park, but the effect (beneficial or adverse) on visitor experience would be measurable. Any
additional visitor amenities would be easily recognizable.
Major
Impacts would be very evident and would impact visitor use indefinitely. Elimination of campsites and/or
trails and/or elimination of access to existing campsites and/or trails would be frequent. Comparable
opportunities may be available at a great distance elsewhere in the Park or elsewhere in the region, but the
effect (beneficial ar adverse) on visitor experience would be readily apparent. Any additional visitor
amenities would be obvious to visitors.
4.2.5.2 Summary of Impacts to Visitor Use and Experience
The impacts to visitor use and experience include both direct impacts, such as tbe elimination of resources
and access-related issues, as well as indirect impacts, such as the change in visitor experience. This section
also includes a summary of soundscape impacts, visual resources impacts, construction impacts, safety
considerations, and a discussion of illegal activities. In this section, it is noted if an impact would be
Clarification of the term "baseline" for this project:
The Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell and the Northern Shore Corridor include a baseline route, as well as options to that route.
Baseline routes and options are detailed in Section 2.5 and shown on Figure 2-8. Baseline routes have been compared to existing
conditions. Impact analyses for the options are shown as a difference from the associated baseline route.
Environmental Consequences — 4-58
North Shore Road Final Environmental Impact Statement

applicable to only one road type. Otherwise, the impacts would be the same for both the Principal and
Primitive Park Roads.
Some of the impacts that are discussed in the following sections would be avoided or minimized through the
techniques summarized in Options to Address Potential Impacts, Section 4.2.5.4. Figure 4-13 shows the
campsites and hiking trails that would be eliminated witb the partial-build and build alternatives. For these
alternatives, at-grade crossovers may be required in certain locations to avoid impacts to existing trails.
Where crossovers would be necessary, they would be included in the design and are therefore not addressed
as a mitigation technique.
42.5.2.1 Backcountry Camping
While no backcountry campsites are located within the area of impact for any of the partial-build or build
alternatives, elimination of campsites would occur due to access and proximity impacts. The GSMNP
campsite designation number is included in parenthesis or brackets following the campsite name.
No-Action
The No-Action Alternative would have no impacts to baciccountry camping.
Monetary Settlement
Impacts to backcountry camping associated with the Monetary Settlement Alternative are anticipated to be
negligible.
Laurel Branch Picnic Area
The Laurel Branch Picnic Area would have no impact to backcountry camping.
Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell (Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
The baseline Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell would have moderate, adverse, and long-term impacts to
backcountry camping for active visitors. This alternative would eliminate two campsites, Lower Forney
(No. 74) and Chambers Creek (No. 98).
So�uthern Option at Forney Creek Embayment (Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
As compared to the baseline Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell, the Southern Option at Forney Creek
Embayment would have one less campsite impact (Lower Forney [No. 74]).
Clarification of the term "baseline" for this project:
The Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell and the Northern Shore Corridor include a baseline route, as well as options to that route.
Baseline routes and options are detailed in Section 2.5 and shown on Figure 2-8. Baseline routes have been compared to existing
conditions. Impact analyses for the options are shown as a difference from the associated baseline route.
Environmental Consequences — 4-59
North Shore Road Final Environmental Impact Statement

Northern Shore Corridor (Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
The baseline Northern Share Corridor would have major, adverse, and long-term impacts to backcountry
camping for active visitors. This alternative would eliminate seven campsites: Lower Fomey (No. 74),
Chambers Creek (No. 98), Kirkland Creek (No. 76), Pilkey Creek (No. 77), North Shore (No. 81), Proctor
(No. 86), and Lost Cove (No. 90).
Southern Option at Forney Creek Embayment (Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
As compared to the baseline Northem Shore Corridor, the Southern Option at Forney Creek Embayment
would have one less campsite impact (Lower Forney [No. 74]).
Southern Option at Hazel and Eagle Creek Embayments (Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
As compared to the baseline Northern Shore Corridor, the Southern Option at Hazel and Eagle Creek
Embayments would bave two less campsite impacts (Proctor [No. 86] and Lost Cove [No. 90]).
Southern Option Crossing Fontana Dam (Primitive and Principal PaNk Roads)
The Southern Option Crossing Fontana Dam would not change impacts from the baseline Northern Shore
Corridor.
4.2.5.22 Hiking
Table 4-1 l provides a breakdown of total trail length eliminated or rerouted by each alternative. Alternatives
and options that do not impact existing trails are not included in the table; these include No-Action,
Monetary Settlement, Laurel Branch Picnic Area, and the Southern Option Crossing Fontana Dam. (Note:
Impacts to the AT are discussed in Section 4.2.5.2.4.)
No-Action
The No-Action Alternative would have no impacts to hiking.
Monetary Settlement
Impacts to hiking associated with the Monetary Settlement Alternative are anticipated to be negligible.
Laurel Branch Picnic Area
The Laurel Branch Picnic Area would not impact any existing trails. However, this alternative would
Clarification of the term "baseline" for this project:
The Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell and the Northern Shore Corridor include a baseline route, as well as options to that route.
Baseline routes and options are detailed in Section 2.5 and shown on Figure 2-8. Baseline routes have been compared to existing
conditions. Impact analyses for the options are shown as a difference from the associated baseline route.
Environmental Consequences — 4-60
North Shore Road Final Environmental Impact Statement

Trail Road
Type
Lakeshore (Primitive)
Trail
(Principal)
Tunnel
Bypass
Trail
(Rerouting)
Table 4-11. Lengths of GSMNP Trail Eliminated or Rerouted
Partial- Build Southern Option Northern Shore Southern Option at
Alternative to at Forney Creek Corridor Forney Creek
Bushnell Embayment (baseline) Embayment
(baseline)
8.3 mi -1.2 mi 31.3 mi -1.2 mi
(13.4 km) (-1.9 km) (50.4 km) (-1.9 km)
7.9mi -0.8mi 30.9mi -0.8m
(12.7 km) (-1.3 km) (49.7 km) (-1.3 km)
(Primitive) 0.1 mi� No change from 0.1 mi� No change from No change from
(0.2 km)� baseline Bushnell (02 km)* baseline Northern baseline Northern
Southern Option
at Hazel and
Eagle Creek
Embayments
-5.7 mi
(-9.2 km)
-5.7 mi
(-9.2 km)
(Principal)
Whiteoak (Primitive)
Branch Trail
(Rerouting)
(Principal)
Forney (Primitive)
Creek Trail
(Principal)
Bear Creek (Primitive)
Trail
(Principal)
Hazel (Primitive)
Creek Trail
(Principal)
0.1 mi� No change from
(02 km)� baseline Bushnell
0.08 mi* -0.08 mi
(0.1 km)� (-0.1 km)
0.08 mi�
(0.1 km)�
0.4 mi
(0.6 km)
0
0.1 mi
(0.2 km)
0
0
0
-0.08 mi
(-0.1 km )
-0.4 mi
(-0.6 km)
No change from
baseline Bushnell
-0.1 mi
(-0.2 km)
No change from
baseline Bushnell
No change from
baseline Bushnell
No change from
baseline Bushnell
Shore Corridor Shore Corridor
No change from No change from
0.1 mi� baseline Northern baseline Northern
(0.2 km)� Shore Corridor Shore Corridor
0.08 mi�
(0.1 km)�
0.08 mi�
(0.1 km)�
-0.08 mi
(-0.1 km)
-0.08 mi
(-0.1 km )
No change from
baseline Northern
Shore Corridor
No change from
baseline Northern
Shore Corridor
0.4 mi -0.4 mi No change from
(0.6 km) (-0.6 km) baseline Northern
Shore Corridor
� No change from No change from
baseline Northern baseline Northern
Shore Corridor Shore Corridor
0.1 mi -0.1 mi No change from
(0.2 km) (-0.2 km) baseline
0 No change from No change from
baseline Northern baseline Northern
Shore Corridor Shore Corridor
0.4 mi
(0.6 km)
0.4 mi
(0.6 km)
No change from
baseline
No change from
baseline Northern
Shore Corridor
Total (Primitive) 9.0 mi -1.8 mi 32.4 mi -1.8 mi
(14.5 km) (-2.9 km) (52.1 km) (-2.9 km)
(Principal) 8.1 mi -0.9 mi 31.5 mi -0.9 mi
(13.0 km) (-1.4 km) (51.7 km) (-1.4 km)
Notes: All values shown are approximate and based on functional designs prior to mitigation.
Impacts to the AT are discussed separately in Section 4.2.5.2.4.
* These sections of Tunnel Bypass Trail and W hiteoak Branch Trail would be rerouted rather than fully eliminated.
-0.4 mi
(-0.6 km)
-0.4 mi
(-0.6 km)
-6.1 mi
(-9.8 km)
-6.1 mi
(-9.8 km)
Clarification of the term "baseline" for this project:
The Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell and the Northern Shore Corridor include a baseline route, as well as options to that route.
Baseline routes and options are detailed in Section 2.5 and shown on Figure 2-8. Baseline routes have been compared to existing
conditions. Impact analyses for the options are shown as a difference from the associated baseline route.
Environmental Consequences - 4-61
North Shore Road Final Environmental Impact Statement

include three new interpretive loop trails, which would offer new day-hiking opporiunities. The new trails
would have a minor, beneficial, and long-term impact to hiking for casual visitors.
Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell (Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
The baseline Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell would have moderate, adverse, and long-term impacts to
hiking for casual and active visitors. This alternative would impact five existing trails: Lakeshore Trail,
Tunnel Bypass Trail, Whiteoak Branch Trail, Forney Creek Trail (Primitive Park Road only), and Bear
Creek Trail (Primitive Park Road only). Lalceshore Trail would be eliminated from Whiteoak Branch Trail
west to the day-use development area, a total of approximately 7.7 mi (12.4 km). (Note: The Principal Park
Road, an approximately 0.4-mi [0.6-km] portion of Lakeshore Trail froin Forney Creek to Forney Creek
Trail would remain open for access from the water. Mare information on this is provided in Fishing, Section
4.2.5.2.6.)
Another approximately 0.64-mi (1-km) portion of Lakeshore Trail would be eliminated through the tunnel
and west to where Goldmine Loop Trail meets Lakeshore Trail. A crossover would connect Goldmine Loop
Trail to Lakeshore Trail. An approximately 0.1-mi (0.2-km) section of Tunnel Bypass Trail would have to
be rerouted where the trail currently meets Lakeshore Trail (east of Goldmine Loop Trail) to the crossover at
Goldmine Loop Trail. Where Whiteoak Branch Trail meets Lakeshore Trail, an approximately 0.08-mi (0.1-
km) section of Whiteoak Branch Trail would be rerouted. Approximately 0.4 mi (0.6 km) of Forney Creek
Trail (at Lakeshore Trail) and approximately 0.1 mi (0.2 km) of Bear Creek Trail (at Forney Creek Trail)
would also be eliminated (Primitive Park Road only).
The day-use area would serve as the new trailhead for Lakeshore Trail, providing access to the backcountry.
Two new loop trails would be built at the day-use development area, offering new day-hiking opportunities.
The two new trails would have minor, beneficial, and long-term impacts to hiking for casual visitors. (Note:
While no sections of the AT are crossed by the Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell baseline corridor, other
iinpacts to the AT are discussed in Section 4.2.5.2.4.)
Southern Option at Forney Creek Embayment (Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
As compared to the baseline Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell, the Southern Option at Forney Creek
Embayment would have less hiking impacts. Impacts to Whiteoak Branch Trail, Forney Creek Trail, and
Bear Creek Trail would be avoided with the Southern Option at Forney Creek Embayment. Lakeshore Trail
would still be impacted through the tunnel; however, this option would avoid impacts on Lakeshore Trail
from White Oak Branch Trail to Fomey Creek, just past Lakeshore Trail's intersection with Forney Creek
Trail. The remainder of Lakeshore Trail to the day-use area still would be eliminated. Rerouting of Tunnel
Bypass Trail still would be necessary. (Note: While no sections of the AT are crossed by the Southern
Option at Forney Creek Embayments, other impacts to the AT are discussed in Section 4.2.5.2.4.)
Clarification of the term "baseline" for this project:
The Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell and the Northern Shore Corridor include a baseline route, as well as options to that route.
Baseline routes and options are detailed in Section 2.5 and shown on Figure 2-8. Baseline routes have been compared to existing
conditions. Impact analyses for the options are shown as a difference from the associated baseline route.
Environmental Consequences — 4-62
North Shore Road Final Environmental Impact Statement

Northern Shore Corridor (Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
The baseline Northern Shore Corridor would have major, adverse, and long-term impacts to hiking for active
visitors. This alternative would impact six trails: Lakeshore Trail, Tunnel Bypass Trail, Whiteoak Branch
Trail, Forney Creek Trail (Primitive Park Road only), Bear Creek Trail (Primitive Park Road only), and
Hazel Creek Trail. An approximately 0.1-mi (0.2-km) section of Tunnel Bypass Trail would have to be
rerouted where the trail currently meets Lakeshare Trail (east of Goldmine Loop Trail) to the crossover at
Goldmine Loop TraiL Where Whiteoak Branch Trail meets Lakeshore Trail, an approximately 0.08-mi (0.1-
km) section of Whiteoak Branch Trail would be rerouted. Approximately 0.4 mi (0.6 km) of Forney Creek
Trail (at Lakeshore Trail) and approximately 0.1 mi (0.2 km) of Bear Creek Trail (at Forney Creek Trail)
would also be eliminated (Primitive Park Road only).
Lakeshore Trail impacts include a total of approximately 31.3 mi (50.4 km). Exceptions to this include
maintaining two segments north of the embayments of Hazel and Eagle creeks. The first is an approximately
0.8-mi (l .3-km) portion from a proposed parking area to Hazel Creek Trail. (Note: An approximately 0.4-mi
[0.6-km] reroute of Hazel Creek Trail would be required far the connection.) The second segment,
approximately 0.8 mi (1.3 km), would connect Lost Cove Trail to Eagle Creek Trail. The new roadway
would bridge this section of Lakeshore Trail twice, allowing the trail to stay open. Additional trail impacts
include the elimination of an approximately 0.4-mi (0.6-km) portion of Hazel Creek Trail, which would be
rerouted, as noted above. (Note: Impacts to the AT are discussed in Section 4.2.5.2.4.)
Southern Option at Forney Creek Embayment (Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
As compared to the baseline Northem Shore Corridor, the Southern Option at Forney Creek Embayment
would have less hiking impacts. Impacts to Whiteoak Branch Trail, Forney Creek Trail, and Bear Creek
Trail would be avoided with the Southern Option at Forney Creek Embayment. Lakeshore Trai] would still
be impacted through the tunnel; however, this option avoids impacts on Lakeshore Trail from White Oak
Branch Trail to Forney Creek, just past Lakeshore Trail's intersection with Forney Creek Trail. Impacts to
trails west of Fomey Creek Trail would be the same as listed for the baseline. Rerouting of Tunnel Bypass
Trail would still be necessary. While no sections of the AT are crossed by the Southern Option at Forney
Creek Embayment, other impacts to the AT are discussed in Section 4.2.52.4.
Southern Option at Hazel and Eagle Creek Embayments (Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
The Southern Option at Hazel and Eagle Creek Embayments would reduce hiking impacts as compared to
the baseline Nortbern Shore Corridor. This option would avoid impacts to 0.4 mi of Hazel Creelc Trail. A
proposed parking area would offer access to Lakeshore Trail (near Calhoun and Mill branches). From the
proposed parking area, Lakeshore Trail would continue to Lost Cove Trail. The remainder of Lakeshore
Trail would still be eliminated, as with the baseline corridor. While no sections of the AT are crossed by the
Southern Option at Hazel and Eagle Creek Embayments, other impacts to the AT are discussed in Section
4.2.5.2.4.
Clarification of the term "baseline" for this project:
The Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell and the Northern Shore Corridor include a baseline route, as well as options to that route.
Baseline routes and options are detailed in Section 2.5 and shown on Figure 2-8. Baseline routes have been compared to existing
conditions. Impact analyses for the options are shown as a difference from the associated baseline route.
Environmental Consequences — 4-63
North Shore Road Final Environmental Impact Statement

Southern Option Crossing Fontana Darn (Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
The Southern Option Crossing Fontana Dam would not change hiking impacts from the baseline Northern
Shore Corridor. However, refer to Section 4.2.5.2.4 for a discussion on impacts to the AT related to this
option. Impacts to the AT with the Southern Option Crossing Fontana Dam are discussed in Section
4.2.5.2.4.
42.5.2.3 Horse Use
Horse use impacts closely relate to hiking impacts because all hiking trails that are impacted allow horses. In
addition to trail impacts, harse use would be impacted by the loss of any campsites that allow horses. These
impacts would be similar to those previously described for backcountry camping, with one exception.
Horses are not currently allowed at the Lower Forney campsite (No. 74).
No-Action
The No-Action Alternative would have no impacts to horse use.
Monetary Settlement
I�npacts to horse use associated with the Monetary Settlement Alternative are anticipated to be negligible.
Laurel Branch Picnic Area
The Laurel Branch Picnic Area would have no impact to horse use.
Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell (Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
The baseline Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell would ha�e minor, adverse, and long-term impacts to
horse use (for active visitors) due to loss of one backcountry campsite, as detailed in Section 4.2.5.2.1. This
alternative would have moderate, adverse, and long-term impacts to horse use (for casual and active visitors)
due to the elimination of trails, as detailed in Section 4.2.5.2.2.
Southern Option at Forney Creek Embayment (Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
The Southern Option at Forney Creelc Embayment would not change impacts to horse use related to the loss
of backcountry campsites. However, impacts to horse use related to the elimination of trails would be
reduced as compared to the baseline Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell, as detailed in Sections 4.2.5.2.1
and 4.2.5.2.2.
Clarification of the term "baseline" for this project:
The Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell and the Northern Shore Corridor include a baseline route, as well as options to that route.
Baseline routes and options are detailed in Section 2.5 and shown on Figure 2-8. Baseline routes have been compared to existing
conditions. Impact analyses for the options are shown as a difference from the associated baseline route.
Environmental Consequences — 4-64
North Shore Road Final Environmental Impact Statement

Northern Shore Corridor (Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
The baseline Northern Shore Corridor would have major, adverse, and long-term impacts to horse use (for
active visitors) due to the loss of six campsites, as detailed in Section 4.2.5.2. ]. This alternative would have
major, adverse, and long-term impacts to horse use (for active visitors) due to the elimination of trails, as
detailed in Section 4.2.5.2.2. As described in Section 4.2.5.2.2, Lost Cove Trail would connect directly to
Eagle Creek Trail due to the elimination of Lakeshore Trail with the baseline Northern Shore Corridor. Lost
Cove Trail allows horses, but Eagle Creek Trail does not. Because of this, a new trail that allows horses
would need to be built from where Lost Cove Trai] and Eagle Creek Trail meet to Hazel Creek Trail, a total
of approximately 5 mi (8 km).
Southern Option at Forney Creek Embayment (Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
The Southern Option at Forney Creek Embayment would not change impacts to horse use related to the loss
of backcountry campsites. However, impacts to horse use related to the elimination of irails would be
reduced as compared to the baseline Northern Shore Corridor, as detailed in Sections 4.2.5.2.1 and 4.2.5.2.2.
Southern Option at Hazel and Eagle Creek Embayments (Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
The Southern Option at Hazel and Eagle Creek Embayments would lessen impacts to horse use as compared
to the baseline Northern Shore Corridor since it reduces the loss of campsites and eliminates less trail length,
as detailed in Sections 4.2.5.2.1 and 4.2.5.2.2. The need for 5 mi (8 km) of new trail to connect to Hazel
Creek Trail from where Lost Cove Trail and Eagle Creek Trail meet would be eliminated.
Southern Option Crossing Fontana Darn (Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
The Southern Option Crossing Fontana Dam would not change impacts to horse use from the baseline
Northern Shore Corridor.
4.2.5.2.4 Appalachian National Scenic Trail
This section summarizes impacts to the visitor experience along the AT, including discussion of impacts to
views from the AT. More detailed information on impacts to particular viewpoints and general views along
the AT is presented in Section 4.5 and Section 4.2.5.2.10. Mare information on noise impacts and the AT is
presented in Soundscapes, Section 4.3.5. In addition, other aspects of the AT visitor experience are
discussed in further depth within the remaining impact topics in this visitor use section (Section 4.2.5.2).
Discussion of impacts to the AT as a cultural resource is presented in Section 4.2.8.3.
No-Action
The No-Action Alternative would have no impacts to the AT.
Clarification of the term "baseline" for this project:
The Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell and the Northern Shore Corridor include a baseline route, as well as options to that route.
Baseline routes and options are detailed in Section 2.5 and shown on Figure 2-8. Baseline routes have been compared to existing
conditions. Impact analyses for the options are shown as a difference from the associated baseline route.
Environmental Consequences — 4-65
North Shore Road Final Environmental Impact Statement

Monetary Settlement
Impacts to the AT associated with the Monetary Settlement Alternative are anticipated to be negligible.
Laurel Branch Picnic Area
The Laurel Branch Picnic Area would have no impacts to the AT.
Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell (Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
The baseline Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell would ha�e a negligible, adverse, long-term impact to the
AT for casual and active visitors. The Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell would not cross the AT. The
bridge associated with the baseline Bushnell corridor may potentially be visible from the AT. Refer to
Section 4.5 and Section �.2.5.2.10 for more information on impacts to select viewpoints and general views
along the AT.
Southern Option at Forney Creek Embayment (Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
The Southern Option at Forney Creek Embayment would not change direct impacts to the AT from the
baseline Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell. The bridge associated with the Southern Option at Forney
Creek Embayment would be visible from multiple locations along the AT. Refer to Section 4.5 and Section
4.2.5.2.10 for mare information on impacts to select viewpoints and general views along the AT.
Northern Shore Corridor (Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
The baseline Northern Shore Corridor would have a major, adverse, and long-term impact to the AT for
casual and active visitors. This alternative would require the AT to cross a new roadway. This new crossing
would be located in the western portion of the study area, just north of Fontana Dam. No provisions are
included to allow the baseline Northern Shore Corridor to tie into the existing roadway; therefore, new
vehicular access would not be provided to Fontana Dam. Impacts to visitors on the AT would include a loss
of solitude and remoteness due to traffic and related soundscape impacts. Soundscape impacts are presented
in Section 43.5. The aesthetics of the AT would also be impacted. In addition to affecting views in the
western portion of the study area, the bridge associated with the baseline Bushnell corridor may potentially
be visible froin the AT. Refer to Section 4.5 and Section 4.2.5.2.10 far mare information on impacts to
select viewpoints and general views along the AT.
Southern Option at Forney Creek Embayment (Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
The Southern Option at Forney Creek Embayment would not change direct impacts to the AT from the
baseline Northern Shore Corridor. The bridge associated with the Southern Option at Forney Creek
Clarification of the term "baseline" for this project:
The Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell and the Northern Shore Corridor include a baseline route, as well as options to that route.
Baseline routes and options are detailed in Section 2.5 and shown on Figure 2-8. Baseline routes have been compared to existing
conditions. Impact analyses for the options are shown as a difference from the associated baseline route.
Environmental Consequences — 4-66
North Shore Road Final Environmental Impact Statement

Embayment would be visible from multiple locations along the AT. Refer to Section 4.5 and Section
4.2.52.10 for more information on impacts to select viewpoints and general views along the AT.
Southern Option at Hazel and Eagle Creek Embayments (Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
The Southern Option at Hazel and Eagle Creek Embayments would increase visual impacts to the AT
(including on Fontana Dam) from the baseline Northern Shore Corridor. Refer to Section 4.5 and Section
4.2.5.2. ] 0 for more information on impacts to select viewpoints and general views along the AT.
Southern Option Crossing Fontana Dam (Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
The Southern Option Crossing Fontana Dam would avoid major, adverse, and long-term impacts, (for casual
and active visitors), related to the new crossover for the baseline Northern Shore Corridor. However, it
would create major, adverse, and long-term impacts, (for casual and active visitors), related to rerouting the
AT. Tbis option would follow the current route of the AT, which is on existing roadway. Due to increased
traffic along this portion of the AT, a portion of the AT would be rerouted west of the existing roadway
associated with the Southern Option Crossing Fontana Dam. Before crossing Fontana Dam, the AT would
tie back into the roadway and continue south. Although only approximately 0.8 mi (1.3 km) would be
eliminated, approximately 1.5 mi (2.4 km) of new trail would be required to reroute the trail back to Fontana
Dam. Refer to Figure 4-13 far the portion of trail eliminated. Soundscape impacts related to traffic along
this portion of the AT would impact visitor experience, resulting in a loss of solitude and remoteness.
Soundscape impacts are presented in Section 4.3.5. The Southem Option Crossing Fontana Dam would
change visual impacts to the AT (including on Fontana Dam) compared with the baseline Northern Shore
Corridor. Refer to Section 4.5 and Section 4.2.5.2. l 0 far more information on impacts to select viewpoints
and general views along the AT.
4.2.5.2.5 Fishing
Hazel, Eagle, Forney, and Bear creeks (a tributary of Forney Creek), were assessed for fishing impacts.
GSMNP has determined that Hazel and Forney creeks are the most popular fishing creeks in the study area.
Section 4.4.3 discusses water qualiry impacts due to construction and use of the new roadway and/or day-use
areas. Refer to Section 4.4.4 for information on impacts to aquatic ecology as a result of water qualiry
impacts.
No-Action
The No-Action Alternative would have no impacts to fishing.
Clarification of the term "baseline" for this project:
The Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell and the Northern Shore Corridor include a baseline route, as well as options to that route.
Baseline routes and options are detailed in Section 2.5 and shown on Figure 2-8. Baseline routes have been compared to existing
conditions. Impact analyses for the options are shown as a difference from the associated baseline route.
Environmental Consequences — 4-67
North Shore Road Final Environmental Impact Statement

Monetary Settlement
Impacts to fishing associated with the Monetary Settlement Alternative are anticipated to be negligible.
Laurel Branch Picnic Area
The Laurel Branch Picnic Area would have no impacts to fishing in GSMNP.
Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell (Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
The baseline Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell (Primitive Park Road) would have major, adverse, and
long-term impacts to fishing, (for casual and active visitors), related to boat and trail access changes. The
Primitive Park Road would eliminate the existing trail and boat access to Forney and Bear creeks. The
Principal Park Road would not impact boat access and has less trail impacts than the Primitive Park Road.
The baseline Partial-Build Alternative to Busbnell (Principal Park Road) would have moderate, adverse, and
long-term impacts to fishing, (for casual and active visitors), related to trail access changes. For both the
Principal and Primitive Park Roads, the new boat ramp would have moderate, beneficial, and long-term
impacts to fishing for casual visitors.
For both the Principal and Primitive Park Roads, trail access (Lakeshore Trail) would be impacted at the
tunnel, requiring visitars to take Tunnel Bypass Trail to access Lakeshore Trail (at the Goldmine Loop Trail
crossover discussed in Section 4.2.5.2.2) and continue to Whiteoak Branch Trail. Due to additional impacts
to Lakeshore Trail, visitors would be required to take Whiteoak Branch Trail to Forney Creek Trail and Bear
Creek Trail far fishing at the two creeks. A new connection (approximately 0.05 mi [0.08 km]) from Forney
Creek Trail to Bear Creek Trail would be required with the Primitive Park Road due to its trail impacts.
Water access (from creek to trail) would not be impacted with the Principal Park Road. Visitors boating to
Forney Creek would still be able to access Lakeshore Trail from the water and continue to Forney Creek
Trail. However, the Primitive Park Road would cut off access from the water due to impacts to Forney
Creek and Bear Creek trails. A new trail would need to be built from the shore to where a crossover would
allow access over the new roadway to Forney Creek and Bear Creek trails. (The route of this new trail and
crossover is unknown at tbis time.) The boat ramp at the day-use area would provide additional access to
Fontana Lake. This might improve boat access to some of the creeks feeding Fontana Lake.
Southern Option at Forney Creek Embayment (Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
The Southern Option at Forney Creek Embayment would reduce fishing impacts as compared to the baseline
Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell. As compared to the baseline, this alternative avoids boat access
impacts to Forney and Bear creeks and avoids trail impacts except the impacts to Tunnel Bypass Trail and
Lakeshore Trail at the tunnel.
Clarification of the term "baseline" for this project:
The Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell and the Northern Shore Corridor include a baseline route, as well as options to that route.
Baseline routes and options are detailed in Section 2.5 and shown on Figure 2-8. Baseline routes have been compared to existing
conditions. Impact analyses for the options are shown as a difference from the associated baseline route.
Environmental Consequences — 4-68
North Shore Road Final Environmental Impact Statement

Northern Shore Corridor (Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
The baseline Northern Shore Corridor (Primitive Park Road) would have major, adverse, and long-term
impacts to fishing (for casual and active visitors) related to boat and irail access changes. The Primitive Park
Road would eliminate the existing trail and boat access to Forney and Bear creeks. The Principal Park Road
would not impact boat access and has less trail impacts tban the Priinitive Park Road. The baseline Northern
Shore Corridor (Principal Park Road) would have moderate, adverse, and long-term impacts to fishing (for
casual and active visitors) related to trail access changes. Far both the Principal and Primitive Park Roads,
the baseline Northern Shore Corridor would have moderate, beneficial, and long-term impacts to fishing (for
casual and active visitors) due to improved access related to trailhead parking.
For both the Principal and Primitive Park Roads, trail access (Lakeshore Trail) would be impacted at the
tunnel, requiring visitars to take Tunnel Bypass Trail to access Lakeshore Trail (at the Goldmine Loop Trail
crossover discussed in Section 4.2.5.2.2) and continue to Whiteoak Branch Trail. Due to additional impacts
to Lakeshore Trail, visitors would be required to take Whiteoak Branch Trail to Forney Creek Trail and Bear
Creek Trail for fishing at the two creeks. A new connection (approximately 0.05 mi [0.08 km]) from Forney
Creek Trail to Bear Creek Trail would be required with the Primitive Park Road due to its trail impacts.
Water access (from creek to trail) would not be impacted with the Principal Park Road. Visitors boating to
Forney Creek would still be able to access Lakeshore Trail from the water and continue to Forney Creek
Trail. However, the Primitive Park Road would cut off access from the water due to impacts to Forney
Creek and Bear Creek trails. A new trail would need to be built from the shore to where a crossover would
allow access over the new roadway to Forney Creelc and Bear Creek trails. (The route of this new trail and
crossover is unknown at this time.)
This alternative (Primitive and Principal Park Roads) would impact water access to Hazel Creek. From the
Hazel Creek connector trail (from the water) to Lalceshore Trail, visitors would be required to cross over the
proposed roadway and follow approximately 0.05 mi (0.08 km) of new trail to Lakeshore Trail. At the
intersection of Lakeshore Trail and Hazel Creek Trail, an approximate 0.4-mi (0.6-km) trail realignment
would provide access to Hazel Creek Trail and Hazel Creek. Trail access would be improved to Hazel Creek
Trail, due to a proposed parking area. From the parking area, visitors would be able to access Lalceshore
Trail, following it to the east for approximately 0.8 mi (1.3 km). Trail access to Eagle Creek from Lakeshore
Trail would be eliminated. Visitars could talce Lost Cove Trail to access Eagle Creek Trail and Eagle Creek.
Visitors could also follow Lakeshore Trail (from the proposed parking area) to Hazel Creek Trail to access
the new trail to Eagle Creek Trail. Water access to Eagle Creek would not be impacted.
Southern Option at Forney Creek Embayment (Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
The Southern Option at Forney Creek Embayment would reduce fishing impacts as compared to the baseline
Northern Shore Corridor. As compared to the baseline Northern Shore Corridor, this alternative avoids boat
Clarification of the term "baseline" for this project:
The Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell and the Northern Shore Corridor include a baseline route, as well as options to that route.
Baseline routes and options are detailed in Section 2.5 and shown on Figure 2-8. Baseline routes have been compared to existing
conditions. Impact analyses for the options are shown as a difference from the associated baseline route.
Environmental Consequences — 4-69
North Shore Road Final Environmental Impact Statement

access impacts to Forney and Bear creeks and avoids trail impacts except the impacts to Tunnel Bypass Trail
and Lakeshore Trail at the tunnel.
Southern Option at Hazel and Eagle Creek Embayments (Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
The Southern Option at Hazel and Eagle Creek Embayments would reduce fisbing impacts as compared to
the baseline Northern Shore Corridor. As compared to the baseline, this alternative avoids impacts to fishing
at Hazel and Eagle creeks.
Southern Option Crossing Fontana Dam (Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
The Southern Option Crossing Fontana Dam would not change impacts from the baseline Northern Shore
Corridor.
4.2.5.2.6 Interpretive Opportunities
No-Action
The No-Action Alternative would have no impact on interpretive opportunities.
Monetary Settlement
Impacts to interpretive opporiunities associated with the Monetary Settlement Alternative are anticipated to
be negligible.
Laurel Branch Picnic Area
As detailed in Section 2.53, Laurel Branch Picnic Area would provide interpretive opportunities through
three new loop trails, wayside exhibit panels, ranger-led programs, and a publication telling the story of the
area. This alternative would have minor, beneficial, and long-term impacts related to interpretive
opportunities for passive and casual visitors.
Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell (both options for the Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
As detailed in Section 2.5.4, the Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell would offer interpretive opporiunities
which include provisions for exhibit space, wayside exhibit panels, concession opportunities, and two
interpretive loop trails. This alternative would have moderate to major, beneficial, and long-term impacts
related to interpretive opporiunities for passive and casual visitors.
Clarification of the term "baseline" for this project:
The Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell and the Northern Shore Corridor include a baseline route, as well as options to that route.
Baseline routes and options are detailed in Section 2.5 and shown on Figure 2-8. Baseline routes have been compared to existing
conditions. Impact analyses for the options are shown as a difference from the associated baseline route.
Environmental Consequences — 4-70
North Shore Road Final Environmental Impact Statement

Northern Shore Corridor (all options for the Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
As detailed in Section 2.5.5, the Northern Shore Corridor would offer interpretive opportunities. These
opportunities would be provided through such means as the auto-tour guide and wayside exhibit panels. This
alternative would have minor to moderate, beneficial, and long-term impacts related to interpretive
opportunities for passive and casual visitors.
4.2.5.2.7 Scenic/Driving Opportunities
As stated in the GMP, viewing the Park by vehicle is a recreational activiry. While a new roadway would
offer opportunities to view the Park, existing scenic views would be impacted due to the presence of a new
roadway in the Park as discussed in Section 4.2.5.2.10.
No-Action
The No-Action Alternative would have no impact on scenic/driving opportunities.
Monetary Settlement
Impacts to scenic/driving opportunities associated with the Monetary Settlement Alternative are anticipated
to be negligible.
Laurel Branch Picnic Area
The Laurel Branch Picnic Area would not provide new scenic/driving opportunities.
Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell (any option for the Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
The Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell would provide up to 8 mi (13 km) of new roadway within
GSNiNP, providing new scenic/driving opporiunities. Impact thresholds differ slightly between the road
types due to the difference in experience related to driving surfaces and speeds. The Partial-Build
Alternative to Bushnell (Primitive Park Road) would have negligible to minor, beneficial, and long-term
impacts to scenic/driving opporiunities for passive visitors. The Principal Park Road would have minor,
beneficial, and long-term impacts to scenic/driving opportunities for passive visitors.
Northern Shore Corridor (all options for the Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
The Northern Shore Corridor would provide up to 34 mi (55 km) of new roadway within GSMNP, providing
new scenic/driving opportunities. Impact thresholds differ between the road types due to the difference in
experience related to driving surfaces and speeds. The Northern Shore Corridor (Primitive Park Road)
Clarification of the term "baseline" for this project:
The Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell and the Northern Shore Corridor include a baseline route, as well as options to that route.
Baseline routes and options are detailed in Section 2.5 and shown on Figure 2-8. Baseline routes have been compared to existing
conditions. Impact analyses for the options are shown as a difference from the associated baseline route.
Environmental Consequences — 4-71
North Shore Road Final Environmental Impact Statement

would have minor, beneficial, and long-term impacts to scenic/driving opportunities for passive visitors. The
Principal Park Road would have moderate, beneficial, and long-term impacts to scenic/driving opportunities
for passive visitors.
42.5.2.8 Other Visitor Experiences
Other visitor experiences addressed in this analysis include wildlife viewing, photography, nature study, and
nostalgia/refuge. Impacts to the backcountry lessen the opportunities far these visitor experiences.
No-Action
The No-Action Alternative would have no impacts to wildlife viewing, photography, nature study, and
nostalgia/refuge.
Monetary Settlement
Impacts to wildlife viewing, photography, nature study, and nostalgia/refuge associated with the Monetary
Settlement Alternative are anticipated to be negligible.
Laurel Branch Picnic Area
The Laurel Branch Picnic Area would have negligible, adverse impacts to wildlife viewing, photography,
nature study, and nostalgia/refuge.
Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell (any option for the Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
The Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell would have minor, adverse, and long-term impacts to wildlife
viewing, photography, and nature study for casual and active visitors. This alternative would have moderate,
adverse, and long-term impacts to nostalgia/refuge for casual and active visitors. The Partial-Build
Alternative to Bushnell would have minor to moderate, beneficial, and long-term impacts to wildlife
viewing, photography, nature study, and nostalgialrefuge for passive visitors. The road and the facilities at
Bushnell would provide access to these opporiunities in this area of the Park for passive visitors.
Northern Shore Corridor (any option for the Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
The Northern Shore Corridor would have moderate, adverse, and ]ong-term impacts to wildlife viewing,
photography, and nature study for casual and active visitors. This alternative would have major, adverse,
and long-term impacts to nostalgia/refuge for casual and active visitors. The Northern Share Corridor would
have minor to moderate, beneficial, and long-term impacts to wildlife viewing, photography, nature study,
Clarification of the term "baseline" for this project:
The Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell and the Northern Shore Corridor include a baseline route, as well as options to that route.
Baseline routes and options are detailed in Section 2.5 and shown on Figure 2-8. Baseline routes have been compared to existing
conditions. Impact analyses for the options are shown as a difference from the associated baseline route.
Environmental Consequences — 4-72
North Shore Road Final Environmental Impact Statement

and nostalgia/refuge for passive visitors. The road and a limited number of parking pull-offs would provide
access to these opportunities in this area of the Park for passive visitors.
4.2.5.2.9 Solitude Impacts
Solitude is a feeling of being alone and separated from sociery. The desire for solitude is one of the reasons
for visiting GSMNP. The natural soundscapes throughout the northern shore of Fontana Lake provide an
intrinsic value, which adds to the solitude and unique experience of the study area. The intrusion of man-
made facilities, including roads and other visitor amenities into the backcountry, can reduce feelings of
solitude due to increased sound levels, overcrowding, and access.
Sound level increases occurring during construction and resulting from traffic generated by the study
alternatives are detailed in Soundscapes, Section 4.3.5. In addition to solitude impacts associated with
changes in sound levels, increased visitation and the displacement of visitors to other areas of GSMNP
(which are detailed in Economics, Section 4.2.3) would impact visitor solitude. Over time, the increase in
visitors could lead to overcrowding, impacting the backcountry experience by intruding on solitude and
feelings of remoteness. According to the ROS, remoteness is defined as "the extent to which individuals
perceive themselves removed from the sights and sounds of hu�nan activity" (USDA 1990). Overcrowding
would also deteriorate resources more quickly, requiring more frequent maintenance of trails, and may alter
wildlife behavior.
No-Action
The No-Action Alternative would have no impacts to solitude.
Monetary Settlement
Impacts to solitude associated with the Monetary Settlement Alternative are anticipated to be negligible.
Laurel Branch Picnic Area
The Laurel Branch Picnic Area would have negligible, adverse, long-term impacts to solitude for passive and
casual visitors; however, it may have minor, adverse, long-term impacts to solitude for active visitors.
Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell (Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
The Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell would have minor to moderate, adverse, long-term impacts to
solitude far casual visitars and major, adverse, long-term impacts to solitude for active visitors. Wbile the
Primitive Park Road would have less impact associated with traffic than the Principal Park Road due to a
lower design speed and smaller traffic volumes, the gravel surface may cause additional noise and dust for
each individual vehicle as compared to a paved roadway. Casual and active visitors may experience a
Clarification of the term "baseline" for this project:
The Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell and the Northern Shore Corridor include a baseline route, as well as options to that route.
Baseline routes and options are detailed in Section 2.5 and shown on Figure 2-8. Baseline routes have been compared to existing
conditions. Impact analyses for the options are shown as a difference from the associated baseline route.
Environmental Consequences — 4-73
North Shore Road Final Environmental Impact Statement

reduced sense of solitude due to sound-level increases on Lakeshore Trail (north of the new roadway),
Whiteoak Branch Trail, Tunnel Bypass Trail, Goldmine Loop Trail, Forney Creek Trail, and Bear Creek
Trail. These impacts would lessen as visitors hike farther into the backcountry on Whiteoak Branch Trail,
Forney Creek Trail, and Bear Creek Trail. Casual and active visitors fishing at Forney and Bear creeks may
experience a loss of solitude. The Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell would have minar to moderate,
beneficial, long-term impacts to solitude for passive visitors. The road and the facilities at Bushnell would
provide access and opporiunities for solitude further into this area of the Park for passive visitors.
Southern Option at Forney Creek Embayment (Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
Solitude impacts related to the Southern Option at Forney Creek Embayment may be either avoided or
created, depending on the location of the visitor in relation to the new roadway and/or the new amenities.
Northern Shore Corridor (Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
The Northern Shore Corridor (Primitive and Principal Park Roads) would have moderate to major, adverse,
long-term impacts to solitude for casual and active visitors. While the Primitive Park Road would have less
impact than the Principal Park Road due to a lower design speed and smaller traffic volumes, the gravel
surface may cause additional noise and dust for each individual vehicle as compared to a paved roadway.
The Principal Park Road may be popular with motorcyclists (Traffic, Mobility, and Access, Section 4.2.1).
During heavy motorcycle use, the intrusion of noise might extend further into the backcountry because most
motorcycles generate more noise than a car or small truck.
Casual and active visitors may experience a reduced sense of solitude due to sound-level increases on
Lakeshore Trail (north of the new roadway), Whiteoak Branch Trail, Tunnel Bypass Trail, Goldmine Loop
Trail, Forney Creek Trail, and Bear Creek Trail. These impacts would lessen as visitors hike farther into the
backcountry on Whiteoak Branch Trail, Forney Creek Trail, and Bear Creek Trail. Casual and active visitors
fishing at Forney and Bear creeks may experience a loss of solitude. The baseline Northern Shore Corridor
may also impact the solitude of Hazel Creek, Eagle Creek, and Lost Cove trails in the vicinity of the new
roadway. The solitude of the area for casual and active visitors fishing at Hazel and Eagle creeks may also
be impacted by the baseline Northern Shore Corridor. Casual and active visitors on the two sections of
Lakeshore Trail that would remain open would also experience solitude impacts. The baseline Northern
Shore Corridor would adversely impact opporiunities for solitude on the AT for casual and active visitors.
The Northern Shore Corridor (Primitive and Principal Park Roads) would have minor to moderate,
beneficial, long-term impacts to solitude for passive visitors. The road and several parking pull-offs would
provide access and opporiunities for solitude in this area of the Park for passive visitors.
Clarification of the term "baseline" for this project:
The Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell and the Northern Shore Corridor include a baseline route, as well as options to that route.
Baseline routes and options are detailed in Section 2.5 and shown on Figure 2-8. Baseline routes have been compared to existing
conditions. Impact analyses for the options are shown as a difference from the associated baseline route.
Environmental Consequences — 4-74
North Shore Road Final Environmental Impact Statement

Southern Option at Forney Creek Embayment (Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
Solitude impacts related to the Southern Option at Forney Creek Embayment may either be avoided or
created, depending on the location of the visitor in relation to the new roadway.
Southern Option at Hazel and Eagle Creek Embayments (Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
Solitude impacts related to the Southern Option at Hazel and Eagle Creek Embayments may either be
avoided or created, depending on the location of the visitor in relation to the new roadway.
Southern Option Crossing Fontana Dam (Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
The Southern Option Crossing Fontana Dam would increase impacts to solitude on the AT. However, hikers
on the AT in the vicinity of Fontana Dam currently experience higher sound levels than at more secluded
areas. Existing sound levels in this area are primarily due to current traffic on Fontana Dam Road, water
passing through the dam's spillway, and human activities surrounding the dam, lake, and visitor center.
4.2.5.2.10 Visual Resources/General Scenic Views
A summary of impacts identified in the Aesthetics and Visual Resources Analysis far specific viewpoints,
along with a general discussion of impacts to general scenic views is provided below by alternative. Refer to
Aesthetics and Visual Resources, Section 4.5 and Appendix O for additional information on the viewpoint
analysis. Figure 3-7 illustrates the location of the viewpoints analyzed and is referenced below. The partial-
build and build alternatives would open new areas for scenic views from the new roadways and/or amenities.
More information on this is available in Appendix O.
No-Action
The No-Action Alternative would have no impact to visual resources/general scenic views.
Monetary Settlement
Impacts to visual resources/general scenic views associated with the Monetary Settlement Alternative are
anticipated to be negligible.
Laurel Branch Picnic Area
The Laurel Branch Picnic Area is not expected to be visible from any of the viewpoints chosen for detailed
analysis. The Laurel Branch Picnic Area site development would have minor, adverse, long-term impacts to
other general scenic views for casual and active visitors. It would be visible in the immediate viciniry of the
development, primarily by visitors using facilities at the site.
Clarification of the term "baseline" for this project:
The Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell and the Northern Shore Corridor include a baseline route, as well as options to that route.
Baseline routes and options are detailed in Section 2.5 and shown on Figure 2-8. Baseline routes have been compared to existing
conditions. Impact analyses for the options are shown as a difference from the associated baseline route.
Environmental Consequences — 4-75
North Shore Road Final Environmental Impact Statement

Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell (Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
The baseline Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell would have major, adverse, and long-term impacts to the
viewpoint at High Rocks. Impacts to the view from Tsali would be minor to major, adverse, and long-term
depending on the design of the day-use development area. According to backcountry specialists, tbe entire
Forney Creek embayment can be seen from multiple locations along the AT between Clingmans Dome and
Silers Bald while the leaves are on the trees (Sommerville 2005). Therefore, the bridge associated with the
baseline Bushnell corridor may potentially be visible from the AT. Overall, the roadway and development
associated with the Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell would have a major, adverse, and long-term impact
to other general scenic views for casual and active visitors. The Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell would
have negligible to minor, beneficial, long-term iinpacis to general scenic views for passive visitors. New
roadway would be provided into this area of the Park; however, the road is designed to best fit into the
landscape, utilizing former roadbeds where possible, and the road does not run on the ridges. Therefore, there
are few opporiunities for scenic views and a limited number of parking pull-off areas and overlooks would
be included. The development area would have a focus on recreational and interpretive opporiunities,
although some views may be created.
Southern Option at Forney Creek Embaymen.t (Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
The Southern Option at Forney Creek Embayment would eliminate the impact to the viewpoint at High
Rocks; however, it would increase impacts to other scenic views due to its major bridge structure. The
structure would be visible from multiple locations along the AT, as well as from other areas within GSMNP.
Northern Shore Corridor (Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
The baseline Northern Shore Corridor would have major, adverse, long-term impacts to the views from High
Rocks, Shuckstack, the AT (south of Shuckstack), Fontana Dam, and Proctor. Any view of the road from
the AT would be a severe impact, as the AT hiker is looking for solitude and wilderness in their aesthetic
experience. The baseline Northern Shore Corridor would have minor impacts to the viewpoints at Tsali and
Meetinghouse Mountain (during leaf-off conditions). Other general scenic views in the western portion of
the study area would be affected and the bridge associated with the baseline Bushnell corridor may
potentially be visible from the AT, as well as locations within GSMNP. The Northern Shore Corridor would
have major, adverse, and long-term impacts to general scenic views for casual and active visitors. The
Northern Shore Corridor would have minor, beneficial, long-term impacts to general scenic views for
passive visitors. New roadway would be provided into this area of the Park; however, the road is designed to
best fit into the landscape, utilizing former roadbeds where possible, and the road does not run on the ridges.
Therefore, there are few opportunities for scenic views and a limited number of parking pull-off areas and
overlooks would be included.
Clarification of the term "baseline" for this project:
The Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell and the Northern Shore Corridor include a baseline route, as well as options to that route.
Baseline routes and options are detailed in Section 2.5 and shown on Figure 2-8. Baseline routes have been compared to existing
conditions. Impact analyses for the options are shown as a difference from the associated baseline route.
Environmental Consequences — 4-76
North Shore Road Final Environmental Impact Statement

Southern Option at Forney Creek Embayment (Primitive and Principal Park Roads)
The Southern Option at Forney Creek Embayment would eliminate the impact to the viewpoint at High
Rocks; however, it would increase impacts to other scenic views due to its major bridge structure. The
structure would be visible from multiple locations along the AT, as well as from other areas within GSMNP.
Southern Option at Hazel and Eagle Creek Embayments
The Southern Option at Hazel and Eagle Creek Embayments would eliminate the impact to the viewpoint at
Proctor, but would add impacts to five other viewpoints: majar impacts to Black Gum Gap (during leaf-off
conditions), Shuckstack, Fontana Dam, and NC 28 Overlook at Hazel Creek; moderate impacts to Cable
Cove; and a minor impact to Fontana Lake (below Lakeshore Trail). This option would increase impacts to
other scenic views due to its two major bridge structures.
Southern Option Crossing Fontana Darn
The Southern Option Crossing Fontana Dam would avoid major impacts to the view from the AT (south of
Shuckstack) and add a major impact to the view froin Fontana Dam (located on the AT). Impacts to other
scenic views for visitors to the AT would increase; however, impacts to other GSMNP scenic views may
either be avoided or created, depending on the location of the visitor in relation to the new roadway.
4.2.5.2.11 Construction Activities
Construction activities would impact the solitude of the backcountry due to blasting, heavy truck traffic, and
other construction-related activities. Access to the backcountry would also be impacted around existing
trailheads (the tunnel and Fontana Dam areas). Other concerns during construction include the safety of
visitors. More information on safety is provided in Section 4.2.5.2.12.
4.2.5.2.12 Safety of Visitors
Safety concerns include conflicts with vehicular and pedestrian traffic in locations where trails would cross
the roadway. Appropriate signage for vehicles and pedestrians regarding trail crossovers would be required
far the partial-build and build alternatives. In addition, signs would be required informing pedestrians not to
use the existing tunnel on Lake View Road The existing tunnel is not wide enough to allow safe passage of
both pedestrians and vehicles. The proposed parking areas, in addition to providing parking and access to
the Park, would provide areas for vehicle users to rest.
During inclement weather, roadways within GSMNP are closed to motor vehicles due to unsafe driving
conditions. A new roadway would fall under this policy and would experience times of closure to help
protect motorists.
Clarification of the term "baseline" for this project:
The Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell and the Northern Shore Corridor include a baseline route, as well as options to that route.
Baseline routes and options are detailed in Section 2.5 and shown on Figure 2-8. Baseline routes have been compared to existing
conditions. Impact analyses for the options are shown as a difference from the associated baseline route.
Environmental Consequences — 4-77
North Shore Road Final Environmental Impact Statement

4.2.5.2.13 Illegal Activities
Several illegal activities pose a threat to GSMNP resources and visitor safety. These activities include arson;
vandalism; the release of live animals, including use of live bait for fishing and wild boar releases; and
poaching (plant, animal, and cultural resources). Some information is provided below regarding arson,
vandalism, and the release of live animals. Information on plant and animal poaching is in Impacts to the
Natural Environment, Section 4.4, information on the impact of illegal activities on public health and safery
is in Section 42.9, and information on cultural resource impacts is in Section 4.2.8. Illegal drug activity,
including the growing of marijuana and the manufacturing and dumping of inethamphetamine and its
byproducts, is also a concern for GSMNP (Hazardous Materials and Underground Storage Tanks, Section
4.3.3).
Fire frequency along existing Lake View Road has been a problem over the past few decades and is believed
to arise from the illegal acts of protesters and careless hikers. Increased access to GSMNP would raise
concern far additional arson-related activities. Construction could lead to an increase in fire via humans, as
has been found in other road construction projects (Forman and Hersperger 1996). Additional information
on arson is included in Vegetation Communities, Section 4.4.5.
The Park already has vandalism problems at the tunnel, primarily with graffiti. Other vandalism targets
include parked cars at trailhead access areas and cultural resources.
The release of live animals, particularly wild boars (non-native species) results in damage to cemeteries as
the animals knock over headstones and root in dirt mounded over the gravesites. The animals also damage
natural resources. More information on this is included in Invasive Exotics, Section 4.4.9.
Increased access to the Park with the partial-build and build alternatives could lead to additional acts of
arson, vandalism, the release of live animals, poaching, and illegal drug activiry. Each of these acts has the
potential to degrade natural and cultural resources and visitor experience. The Laurel Branch Picnic Area
may increase the occurrence of these activities. However, the Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell and the
Northern Shore Corridor would allow further intrusion of these activities into the Park. The costs of
additional Park staff to respond to incidents and manage these areas have been included in operations and
maintenance costs for each alternative, Section 2.10.2.
4.2.5.2.14 Conclusions
The majority of visitor use impacts would be felt by casual and active visitors. In most cases, the active
visitor would be displaced to other areas of GSMNP. Over time, the loss of this backcountry area and the
displacement of visitors to other areas would deteriorate resources, causing some active users to no longer
recreate in GSMNP. Some new opportunities would be created for the passive and casual visitors, including
additional driving, day-hiking, and picnicking opportunities. Passive visitors would experience some
additional opportunities far general scenic views, solitude, and other visitor experiences. New interpretive
Clarification of the term "baseline" for this project:
The Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell and the Northern Shore Corridor include a baseline route, as well as options to that route.
Baseline routes and options are detailed in Section 2.5 and shown on Figure 2-8. Baseline routes have been compared to existing
conditions. Impact analyses for the options are shown as a difference from the associated baseline route.
Environmental Consequences — 4-78
North Shore Road Final Environmental Impact Statement

opportunities would be created for all visitars. The opporiunity for visitors to experience the Park as a
sanctuary and refuge from life's daily activities and routines would be impacted. The presence of the partial-
build and build alternatives in the backcountry would reduce the sense of wildness and solitude in this area of
the Park. While the loss of some resources could be mitigated, other impacts related to intangible values and
experiences may have no mitigation options. Overall, visitor experience would be adversely impacted as a
result of the Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell and the Northern Shore Corridor.
As discussed in Section 4.2.5.2.12, during inclement weather, roadways within GSMNP are closed to motor
vehicle due to unsafe driving conditions. During these times, new access from the parking areas to trails and
campsites would be impacted.
Laurel Branch Picnic Area
Among the partial-build and build alternatives, the Laurel Branch Picnic Area would have the least impact
on visitor use and experience. However, the development of the day-use area and associated increase in
visitors would impact the sense of wildness and solitude currently experienced in this area of the Park. No
existing trails ar campsites would be impacted nor would this alternative be visible frotn any of the
viewpoints analyzed in the Visual Resources Analysis. Furthermore, this alternative would offer new day
hiking, interpretive, and picnicking opportunities.
Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell (Principal and Primitive Park Roads)
The baseline Partial-Build Altemative to Bushnell would have more impact on visitor use and experience
than the Laurel Branch Picnic Area; however, this alternative would offer the most interpretive opportunities
as compared with the Laurel Branch Picnic Area and the Northern Shore Corridor. This alternative would
offer new day-hiking opportunities, picnicking opportunities, and driving access to the Park, including the
opportunity far scenic views. Additionally, this alternative would provide the only boating access within the
Park Impacts to campsites and trails would occur. Occurrences of the illegal activities discussed in Illegal
Activities, Section 4.2.5.2.13 could increase as a result of this alternative. As discussed in Appendix O, the
day-use area at the Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell would be visible from Tsali. This alternative would
also be visible from the viewpoint at High Rocks. The Southern Option at Forney Creek Embayment would
result in impacts to general views, including those from the AT. Sound level increases generated from the
use of the roadway would impact the solitude of the backcountry. The development of the day-use area, new
roadway facility, and associated increase in visitors would impact the sense of wildness and solitude of the
backcountry experience in the Park.
Northern Shore Corridor (Principal and Primitive Park Roads)
The baseline Northern Shore Corridor would have the most impact on visitor use and experience due to the
length and intrusion into the backcountry. The new roadway facility and associated increase in visitors
would result in a loss of wildness and solitude. This alternative would eliminate the most trails and
Clarification of the term "baseline" for this project:
The Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell and the Northern Shore Corridor include a baseline route, as well as options to that route.
Baseline routes and options are detailed in Section 2.5 and shown on Figure 2-8. Baseline routes have been compared to existing
conditions. Impact analyses for the options are shown as a difference from the associated baseline route.
Environmental Consequences — 4-79
North Shore Road Final Environmental Impact Statement

campsites of the three partial-build or build alternatives. Lakeshore Trail would be almost eliminated with
this corridor. This alternative would also have major, adverse impacts to the AT. This alternative would
offer some interpretive opportunities and provide the most new roadway for driving access within GSMNP.
Additional scenic views would be created. However, this alternative would impact seven existing views that
were analyzed in the Visual Resources Analysis. Impacts from sound-level increases are expected to be
greater with this alternative than with the other partial-build and build alternatives. Parking areas would
provide new options for access to the backcountry. Offering the most new access to the Park, this alternative
would cause the highest potential increase of the illegal activities discussed in Section 4.2.5.2.13.
Overall, the two southern options at the three embayments would impact fewer campsites and trails and
result in less impact to the visitor experience of GSMNP as compared to the baseline routes. However, as
detailed in Appendix O, the Southern Option at Hazel and Eagle Creek Embayments would require major
bridges, which would impact the views from severallocations, including the AT. The Southern Option
Crossing Fontana Dam would have few impacts, except to the AT.
4.2.5.2.15 Cumulative Impacts
Past and planned actions in the study area viciniry, both within and outside the Park, have affected and will
continue to affect the experience of the region's visitors. The Foothills Parkway provides a benefit for
viewing scenery from the road. The Cherokee Casino has increased tourism in the area. The relocation of
the GSMR will increase the number of tourists in Bryson City and potentially visiting the Park. The
importance of heritage tourism in the region, which includes Park visitation, was recognized with the Blue
Ridge Heritage Initiative.
The impacts to solitude offered by the GSMNP are considered in the context of decreases in open space,
forested land, and other natural areas in the eastern United States as a result of overall patterns of
urbanization and suburbanization. As discussed in Section 4.1.2.1.6, the GSMNP has been identified as
having the largest total area (more than 464,000 ac [187,800 ha]) without public vehicular access roads in the
Southern Appalachian region.
Impacts that may result from the study alternatives would contribute to any cumulative effects on visitor use
and experience within GSMNP when added to the effects of these past, present and reasonably foreseeable
actions in the area.
4.2.5.3 Options to Address Potential Impacts
Proposed parking areas along tbe roadway of the Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell and the Northern
Shore Corridor could reduce access impacts to trails and campsites. Furthermore, the two southern options
at the tbree embayments would avoid some impacts to the trails and campsites that would occur with the
baseline corridors. However, the major bridge structures required for these soutbern options would impact
the aesthetics of the area. Other techniques for avoiding or reducing impacts are described below.
Clarification of the term "baseline" for this project:
The Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell and the Northern Shore Corridor include a baseline route, as well as options to that route.
Baseline routes and options are detailed in Section 2.5 and shown on Figure 2-8. Baseline routes have been compared to existing
conditions. Impact analyses for the options are shown as a difference from the associated baseline route.
Environmental Consequences — 4-80
North Shore Road Final Environmental Impact Statement

Furthermore, additional options would address impacts to aesthetics and visual resources and are discussed
in Appendix O.
42.5.3.1 Avoidance Techniques
The impacts of the partial-build and build alternatives would be avoided with the No-Action or Monetary
Settlement alternatives. No additional techniques are proposed for the Laurel Branch Picnic Area or the
Partial-Build Altemative to Bushnell.
Provisions for bollards along the western end of the roadway (baseline Northern Shore Corridor) where it
would cross the existing roadway to Fontana Dam would prevent traffic from accessing the existing roadway
from the new roadway. In addition, a gate near Fontana Dam would prevent vehicles from continuing on the
existing roadway to tbe baseline Northern Shore Corridar. These provisions would avoid additional impacts
to the AT.
4.2.5.32 Minimization Techniques
Provisions for access to the backcountry, including parking would be maintained during construction at the
tunnel with any of the partial-build and build alternatives, as well as at Fontana Dam with the Northern Shore
Corridor. Parking accommodations for harse trailers at the day-use area for the Partial-Build Alternative to
Bushnell and at the parking areas/overlooks along the new roadway (where access is provided to trails) could
reduce impacts to horse use or improve access for horse use in the backcountry.
Whiteoak Branch and Tunnel Bypass trails would be rerouted to minimize trail impacts with the Partial-
Build Alternative to Bushnell. With a Primitive Park Road, Forney Creelc Trail would be rerouted to Bear
Creek Trail. Mare information on these reroutings is included in Hiking, Section 4.2.5.2.2.
In addition to the techniques proposed for the Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell, the baseline Northern
Shore Corridor would require a rerouting of Hazel Creek Trail and a new segment of trail from the water at
Hazel Creek to Lakeshore Trail to minimize access impacts. The AT would also be rerouted to minimize
impacts with the Southern Option Crossing Fontana Dam. More information on these reroutings is included
in Hiking, Section 4.2.5.2.2, and in Appalachian National Scenic Trail, Section 4.2.5.2.4.
4.2.5.3.3 Mitigation Techniques
No techniques are proposed for the Laurel Branch Picnic Area.
For the Partial-Build Altemative to Bushnell, two new backcountry campsites could be created, one along
Welch Ridge Trail and one along Cold Spring Gap Trail, to mitigate the loss of campsites. A new trail
Clarification of the term "baseline" for this project:
The Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell and the Northern Shore Corridor include a baseline route, as well as options to that route.
Baseline routes and options are detailed in Section 2.5 and shown on Figure 2-8. Baseline routes have been compared to existing
conditions. Impact analyses for the options are shown as a difference from the associated baseline route.
Environmental Consequences — 4-81
North Shore Road Final Environmental Impact Statement

would be built to provide access from the Forney Creek embayment to Forney Creek and Bear Creek trails
(for fishing) with a Primitive Park Road
In addition to the techniques proposed for the Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell, a new trail would be
necessary to connect Eagle Creek Trail to Hazel Creek Trail to provide east-west continuity of the Park's
trail system for the baseline Northern Shore Corridar.
4.2.5.3.4 Enhancement Measures
Enhancement measures, noted in Section 2.5, have been incorporated into the development of the study
alternatives. Additional enhancement measures could include improvement to campsites and trails (e.g.,
needed maintenance) within the study area or other areas of the Park.
4.2.5.4 Impairment Evaluation
Impairment (as defined by NPS policy) to the visitor use and experience of GSMNP and the AT would not
occur under the No-Action Alternative, Monetary Settlement Alternative, Laurel Branch Picnic Area, and the
Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell. The Northern Shore Corridor is not likely to impair the visitor use and
experience of GSMNP or the AT based on the information obtained to date. Due to the magnitude of this
alternative, it is likely that additional NEPA documentation would be required to address site-specific
impacts not currently known, to determine detailed avoidance, minimization, and mitigation measures as
they relate to final design, and to re-evaluate the impairment determination related to visitor use and
experience.
THIS SPACE HAS BEEN INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK.
Clarification of the term "baseline" for this project:
The Partial-Build Alternative to Bushnell and the Northern Shore Corridor include a baseline route, as well as options to that route.
Baseline routes and options are detailed in Section 2.5 and shown on Figure 2-8. Baseline routes have been compared to existing
conditions. Impact analyses for the options are shown as a difference from the associated baseline route.
Environmental Consequences — 4-82
North Shore Road Final Environmental Impact Statement