Travelers and nature lovers received welcome news this week as a 26 mile section of the Blue Ridge Parkway in western North Carolina reopened after months of closure. The road had been shut down since Hurricane Helene struck last year, causing landslides, erosion, and heavy damage along one of America’s most scenic drives.
The reopened stretch runs from Asheville to Craggy Gardens and includes access to popular overlooks, the Craggy Gardens Visitor Center, and portions of the Mountains to Sea Trail. For hikers and motorists alike, the reopening comes at the perfect time, just as fall foliage season approaches. Each year thousands flock to the region to witness the brilliant reds, oranges, and yellows that cover the Blue Ridge Mountains, and the return of this route means communities along the way can once again welcome visitors.
Local businesses that depend on Parkway tourism say the closure had a severe economic impact. Restaurants, lodges, and gift shops all saw fewer customers, and outdoor recreation guides reported significant losses. The reopening is expected to bring a boost just as autumn crowds begin to arrive.
While the return of this stretch is celebrated, not all areas of the Parkway are fully restored. Several sections remain closed as crews continue to repair storm damage across more than two hundred miles. The National Park Service has urged visitors to check for updates before traveling to ensure access to trails, picnic areas, and overlooks.
For now the reopening is a moment of hope, a symbol of resilience for mountain communities, and a gift to travelers who long to experience one of the most beautiful drives in America. The Blue Ridge Parkway has always been more than a road; it is a journey through nature, history, and connection, and its revival just in time for autumn is a reminder of its enduring place in American life.