Blue Ridge Parkway Reopens, Bringing Joy and Adventure to Asheville
ASHEVILLE, N.C. — There’s fantastic news for nature lovers, hikers, and sightseeing enthusiasts! After a lot of hard work, the National Park Service has officially reopened around 11 miles of the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway in the Asheville corridor. Starting November 6, visitors can once again explore this beautiful stretch from milepost 382.5 near the Folk Art Center all the way to milepost 393.6, which is close to the North Carolina Arboretum. This includes access to the lovely French Broad Overlook at milepost 393.8, making it a perfect spot to take in the stunning fall foliage.
Asheville Visitor Center Back in Action
Great news doesn’t stop there! The Asheville Visitor Center, located at milepost 384, is also back in business. It’s open every day from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. That means you can drop by anytime for info about the area, grab some brochures, or just chat with friendly staff who are eager to help you plan your next adventure.
Folk Art Center Reopening Soon
For those looking to dive into the rich culture of the region, the Folk Art Center at milepost 382 is all set to welcome visitors starting November 9. Here, you can admire some unique local art, take home a beautiful piece of craftsmanship, or simply soak in the artistic atmosphere.
Exercise Caution While Enjoying the Parkway
Incredible Recovery Efforts Underway
It’s inspiring to hear how much effort has gone into recovering the Parkway since the storms hit. Staff and contractors have successfully cleared over 350,000 cubic feet of storm debris from this newly opened segment of the road. Just to put that into perspective, that’s enough debris to fill nearly 150 shipping containers! That’s quite a feat, and it reflects the dedication of the National Park Service team to restore this beautiful area.
What’s Next for the Blue Ridge Parkway?
While this reopening is a step forward, the National Park Service hasn’t shared specific dates for when other areas of the Parkway, which are both north and south of this recently opened stretch, will be accessible. There is still work to do, including evaluating roadway and roadside damage, ongoing debris removal, and addressing numerous technical hazard tree situations. Updates will be provided when information becomes available, so stay tuned!
For those eager to hit the trails or enjoy the stunning views, current conditions and updates about the Parkway can be found on the National Park Service’s website and their social media platforms. With nature beckoning, Asheville is once again a gateway to adventure!
So, pack your bags, grab your hiking boots, and get ready to explore the wonders of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Whether you seek a peaceful hike, picturesque vistas, or a touch of local culture, there’s something awaiting you in this beautiful corner of North Carolina.
