The gates are never truly locked, you can come and go as you please. However, you need to try to be off trail before sundown, or rangers will come find you to make sure you're safe.
because if you read the signs they say park closes at sunset and the main gate is closed at dark only the Rangers have keys my daughter is ranger 14 and my husband is the maintenance man but our youngest daughter we are so proud that she will be graduating maryville college next year Hannah Marie lee me and daddy Samuel lee are very proud of you and love you so much baby Lisa bunch
Thanks! Your answer is awaiting moderation.