Blue Ridge Parkway Reopens 46 Miles Across North Carolina After Helene

Sections of the Blue Ridge Parkway in Western North Carolina have recently reopened following extensive damage caused by Hurricane Helene, with significant recovery projects nearing completion. A 38-mile stretch from the Folk Art Center in East Asheville to just south of Graveyard Fields was restored after landslide repairs near Ferrin Knob Tunnel No. 3, reopening access to popular sites including Mount Pisgah Inn and several hiking trails. Additionally, an important 14-mile section near Asheville, encompassing the Devil’s Courthouse trail and scenic overlooks, is set to open imminently after completing asphalt repairs and site maintenance. Further south, an eight-mile stretch near the North Carolina/Virginia state line has reopened, restoring continuous access to over 20 miles of the parkway including Doughton Park and its campground. The National Park Service continues to prioritize reopening the parkway through a phased approach, balancing public access with contractor needs, while urging visitors to respect remaining closures due to ongoing hazards and repair work. Overall, over 50 miles of the parkway are expected to be restored by late 2025, marking important progress in the multi-year recovery effort.