National Park Service Reopens 85-Mile Blue Ridge Parkway Section After Landslide Repairs

Following Tropical Storm Helene and subsequent landslides, the National Park Service has completed repairs on a crucial section of the Blue Ridge Parkway near Devil's Courthouse at milepost 422. This repair has reopened an uninterrupted 85-mile stretch from Asheville (milepost 382) to Cherokee (milepost 469), allowing visitors to enjoy a continuous drive along this scenic route for the first time since the storm. The reopening marks a significant milestone in Phase 1 of the NPS's recovery efforts, which will continue through fall 2025 with a phased approach to maintain public access while crews address remaining closed areas and hazards. Visitors are advised to remain cautious of ongoing trail assessments and respect closures due to safety concerns from lingering risks such as landslides and debris. These efforts complement broader infrastructure resilience projects in the region following Helene, including major repairs on Interstate 40. Travelers planning Labor Day weekend trips are encouraged to stay informed on road conditions and prepare their vehicles for safe travel.