What’s open and where to visit in the N.C. mountains
October 25, 2024
The devastating floods from Hurricane Helene made travel through Western North Carolina nearly impossible in the days and weeks that followed. Here’s a guide on what’s open or opening soon.
While the rebuilding effort will take months, and possibly years in some cases, many attractions and towns are ready to receive visitors. They depend on tourism dollars, especially in the fall, to help sustain operations all year. Be sure to check with each business or town before making a trip and allow extra travel time as the best route may have changed. This interactive map from Visit NC is a helpful resource to check roads and conditions in individual counties.
The Biltmore
Biltmore Estate plans to reopen just in time for the holiday season, Nov. 2. It’s great news out of Asheville, one of hardest-hit regions in Western North Carolina by Hurricane Helene. When it reopens, The Biltmore will be fully decorated for the holidays, and its on-site hotels and restaurants are also expected to be open.
After the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene, the family-owned Biltmore committed $2 million to local relief efforts. “As recovery unfolds, welcoming guests back to Biltmore not only means we can open, but also brings critical support to our region’s economy to aid area employees, local businesses, and friends,” said Biltmore CEO Bill Cecil Jr. in a news release. “Together, we can help restore the vibrancy of Asheville and its surrounding areas.”
Christmas at Biltmore runs from Nov. 2 through Jan. 5. Daytime tickets start at $125, and tickets to Candlelight Christmas Evenings, the estate’s nighttime experience, start at $145. Trails and the Outdoor Adventure Center will remain closed until further notice.
Asheville
Asheville has been reopening in stages, but as of Oct. 19, Visit NC reports that Buncombe County, including Asheville and Weaverville are ready for tourists. Explore Asheville has a running list of restaurants and businesses that are serving guests, as well as travel suggestions. Areas hit harder by Helene — including parts of the River Arts District — have a longer road to recovery.
Beech Mountain
Several weeks post-storm, Beech Mountain reports that local businesses are up and running and Beech Mountain Ski Resort is planning to kick off the winter season on Friday, Nov. 29. Visitors can find travel updates here or call the Visitors Center at (800) 468-5506.
Blue Ridge Parkway
This page contains updated information on which sections are open and which remain closed. Along with this interactive map, travelers can also stay up-to-date via @BlueRidgeNPS.
Grandfather Mountain
Grandfather Mountain in the High Country reopened Oct. 23 with a limited number of admission tickets. The home of the Mile High Swinging Bridge received minimal damage from the storm, but other locations in Avery County need longer to recover. Town leaders in Banner Elk are asking visitors to delay their trips.
The High Country
Nearby towns like Beech Mountain (Avery County), Blowing Rock (Watauga and Caldwell Counties), Boone (Watauga County) and West Jefferson (Ashe County) are welcoming visitors.
Highlands
The Highlands Chamber of Commerce reports that businesses, shops and restaurants are open for business and ready to welcome guests. The small town in Macon County fared reasonably well compared to some of its mountain neighbors.
Marion
While some parts of McDowell County aren’t quite yet ready to welcome guests back, businesses in the the town of Marion, including restaurants and galleries, are open to visitors.
Saluda
The Gorge Zipline has reopened, with tours available Thursdays through Monday plus additional holiday dates. The attraction is also offering discounted gift certificates for use after Jan. 6, 2025, from 25% to 42% off.
Travel not recommended (as of Oct. 25)
Many towns are not ready to welcome tourists as town leaders focus on the immediate needs of residents and rebuilding efforts. Be sure to check travel advisories and local websites before traveling to Chimney Rock, Spruce Pine, Linville Falls or Little Switzerland.
For information on where to give and how to help in the recovery effort, click here.
Page updated Nov. 14, 2024.
Featured image courtesy of Wrong Way River Lodge in Asheville, which is open for business.
