Hmmmmm ... I wonder if Dan likes to hike?I've never been to your part of the AT, but you shouldn't consider it a single entity. The AT is comprised of many, many segments short and long.
It looks like the autocracy has closed the amenities and would much prefer that the peasantry sequester themselves in their basements, but who cares about visitors centers and nasty ill-kept privies anyway? You can still hike the trail. Grab a couple of friends, pick out a day-hike sized segment, pack a lunch and go for it!