Exploring the Blue Ridge Parkway: Locals Embrace Nature’s Peace Amid Tourism Challenges

Exploring the Blue Ridge Parkway: A New Adventure Awaits Locals

Asheville, a charming city nestled in the heart of North Carolina, is witnessing a remarkable shift in the usual hustle and bustle of its stunning outdoor attractions. Thanks to recent weather events like Tropical Storm Helene, normally crowded spots like the iconic Yellowstone Falls, located off the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, are seeing fewer footprints these days.

Nature’s Aftermath

After the storm wreaked havoc across Western North Carolina, the Parkway was left with significant damage, prompting closures that affected millions of visitors. The good news? On November 1, a stretch of the Parkway reopened, restoring access to some of the most picturesque locations in the region. Locals are seizing this opportunity like never before, as they flock to areas like Graveyard Fields and Black Balsam.

Anne Marie Satterfield and Eli Awad, two Asheville residents, headed out for a hike to the Second and Upper falls. They, along with many others from the city, expressed their excitement over the lack of crowds. “We don’t usually come,” Satterfield shared. “It’s usually very popular with tourists, so it’s kinda nice to be able to come here when it’s not as crowded.” Awad added, “We would never come here on a Sunday. If you were to come here say last weekend, without the hurricane, there would be hundreds of cars.”

Restoration and Accessibility

The reopening of the Parkway is a significant step for Asheville and the surrounding areas, especially since the parkway was a beloved destination for over 16.7 million visitors last year. Unfortunately, as of now, many campgrounds, picnic areas, and visitor services are closed for the 2024 season despite the reopening of certain trail sections.

Just this past week, six additional miles of the Parkway were made accessible from Milepost 405.5 to Milepost 411.8. Visitors can now explore a handful of scenic overlooks and gateway trails, providing a much-needed respite for local communities. But while some embrace this newfound peace, others feel the pinch of a tourism-dependent economy.

Mixed Feelings Among Locals

While some outdoors enthusiasts relish the quiet, others, like a local man at Black Balsam, expressed the need for visitors’ financial support. “Bring the people, bring the money,” he indicated, hinting at the reliance on tourist dollars for local businesses. Another local, Laura Bellmar, echoed these sentiments, “It’s a tourism-based economy.”

Tourism Impact

The effects of the storm have extended beyond just limited access to the Parkway. According to predictions, lodging tax collections in Asheville may drop between 30% to 45% in the upcoming months. This decline could have ripple effects throughout the area, impacting restaurants, retail shops, and other local industries.

Sections of the Parkway still remain closed, particularly the area between Mileposts 421 and 423.2, where significant landslides have caused safety concerns. The popular Devil’s Courthouse area may remain off-limits for an extended period while plans for recovery and reconstruction are developed.

For Visitors Planning a Trip

The recent reopening of the Waterrock Knob Visitor Center and the Park Store is a welcome sign for tourists. These facilities at Milepost 451.2 are open daily until November 11, ensuring visitors have access to helpful information and refreshments. Additionally, restrooms are available at select locations along the Parkway as well.

While some visitors like Jason and Courtney Jones, visiting from Texas, were relieved to find most attractions open, they noticed changes in the landscape. “The only thing … is that maybe the storm made the colors fall a little earlier than normal,” Courtney said as they embarked on their long-awaited Asheville vacation.

Final Thoughts

As nature consolidates its presence in this beautiful region, locals and a brave few tourists are redefining the experience of visiting the Blue Ridge Parkway. Now is a unique time to explore, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and enjoy the serenity that has momentarily replaced the usual tourist din. Yet amid this beauty, there’s an undeniable recognition that the community thrives on tourism, and the path to recovery will be influenced by the return of the vibrant visitor traffic this region has long cherished.

If you’re thinking about exploring the wonders of the Blue Ridge Parkway and the surrounding trails, check for the latest updates on accessibility directly from the National Park Service. Happy hiking!