Magic in the Mountains

This article originally appeared on The Trek, which you can read here.

Norovirus is making its rounds yet again on the AT. Since early May 2026, the ATC has released several Trail Alerts regarding reports of “norovirus and gastrointestinal illness” along the trail in Virginia, with the most recent update pointing to a popular hut inside of Shenandoah National Park.

The first ATC alert detailed gastrointestinal illness around the Virginia Triple Crown (NOBO miles 697.5 to 731.1) and along the Blue Ridge Parkway up to Rockfish Gap (NOBO miles 823.9 to 865.1). The second update tracked suspected norovirus between Buena Vista and Waynesboro, VA (NOBO miles 809.8 to 865.3). Most recently, on June 15, the ATC reported a suspected case of norovirus in Shenandoah National Park at Blackrock Hut (NOBO mile 885.8). 

On June 17, Shenandoah National Park posted on their Facebook page stating that “There have been reports of severe sickness on the Appalachian Trail (AT). Norovirus is the suspected cause and is very contagious.” While Blackrock Hut wasn’t specifically named in the post, hikers should be wary of visiting the iconic shelter. The shelter remains open at this time, but visitors should use caution as norovirus is highly contagious. 

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Norovirus Symptoms

Norovirus spreads by ingesting particles of feces or vomit. While gross to think about, it’s extremely contagious and most often happens when someone comes in contact with an infected person, contaminated food or water, or a contaminated surface. This exposure causes the stomach and/or intestines to become inflamed. 

Classic symptoms of norovirus are stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In the backcountry, many hikers become dehydrated from the constant vomiting and diarrhea. This can become life-threatening, and in extreme cases, hikers have reported becoming so weak they require emergency evacuation. 

Norovirus Prevention

People who are infected with norovirus shed billions of contagious particles that have the potential to get other people sick. Norovirus has a 12-48 hour incubation period and lasts 24-60 hours. Even after symptoms decrease, a person may be contagious for three days to two weeks.

Unfortunately, norovirus is typically spread around communal areas like shelters and hostels. It is important to stay vigilant and protect yourself from contamination. 

Wash Your Hands with Soap and Water

Many hikers opt to carry hand sanitizer for their personal hygiene, but hand sanitizer does not disinfect against the virus! Washing hands with biodegradable soap and water for at least 20 seconds allows the norovirus particles to rinse from your hands, cutting down on potential contamination. Handwashing should be performed before eating and after using the bathroom.

Treat Your Water

Most hikers use water filters as their only form of filtration. Popular filters protect from bacteria and protozoa, but cannot filter out viruses. Boiling water for at least a minute is the best way to treat water. 

Properly Dispose of Waste

Hikers should practice Leave No Trace when using the bathroom in the backcountry. When it comes to pooping in the woods, cat holes should be dug 200 feet away from water, campsites, and shelters, and be at least 6-8 inches deep. Only bury poop and toilet paper.

Do Not Share Food, Drinks, or Utensils 

Sharing isn’t always caring. Since norovirus is extremely contagious, it’s best to limit potential contamination by not eating or drinking after others. If you do have to touch someone else’s stuff, be sure to wash your hands afterwards.

Other Norovirus Outbreaks and Monitoring

Each year, norovirus plagues the hiking community and long trails. This year alone, the PCT experienced an outbreak that made headlines with over two dozen hikers reporting debilitating symptoms. 

Read Next: Everything You Need to Know About the PCT Norovirus Outbreak

If you or someone you’re hiking with begins to show symptoms, it is recommended to self-isolate while sick, and for at least two to three days after symptoms subside. Consider seeking medical treatment if you become dehydrated or if symptoms last more than a few days.

The ATC asks hikers to report sickness along the trail. This self-report helps health officials and trail managers track outbreaks and ensure shelters are properly disinfected. Reports can be emailed to stomachbug@appalachiantrail.org.