Categories: CommunityEvents/What's HappeningNatureNews

WNC Nature Center Reopens in Asheville After Hurricane Helene

Families at the WNC Nature Center enjoying the reopening.

News Summary

Asheville’s WNC Nature Center is set to reopen on March 17, 2025, after being closed for six months due to Hurricane Helene. After a soft opening for members, both members and the public can now enjoy the center once again. The reopening includes cashless transactions and new features, with reminders of beloved residents like Leafa the red panda.

Welcome Back to Asheville: WNC Nature Center Reopens after Hurricane Helene

Asheville, N.C. is buzzing with excitement because the WNC Nature Center is finally reopening its doors to the public on Monday, March 17, 2025! After being closed for nearly six long months due to the havoc caused by Hurricane Helene, everyone can’t wait to check out their favorite local attraction again.

Soft Opening for Members

Just last week, the nature center had a special soft opening exclusively for its members. But now, both members and the general public can join in on the fun for the first time since late September 2024! It’s time to gather the family, round up the friends, and plan a day of adventure.

Cashless Convenience

In an effort to streamline the visiting experience, the center has gone completely cashless. Visitors can now purchase tickets either online or in person using credit or debit cards, which makes it easier for everyone. But don’t worry; if you prefer cash, it’s still welcome at the gift shop, the membership office, and vending machines throughout the center.

Getting There: Important Directions

After Hurricane Helene made its presence known, the bridge leading to the nature center was badly damaged, requiring a detour for visitors. If you’re planning on heading to the center, here’s what you need to know:

Drive to the nature center via Swannanoa River Road onto Azalea Road.
Instead of taking a right turn to cross the bridge, continue straight for half a mile.
The road is now two-way! However, it can be narrow, so be cautious.
At the roundabout, take the first right. A new traffic signal has been installed on either side of the one-way metal bridge.
After crossing the bridge, you’ll turn left onto Gashes Creek Road to park in the Nature Center’s lot.

When it’s time to leave, just follow the same route.

Hours of Operation

The WNC Nature Center will be welcoming visitors seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with the last admission taken at 3:30 p.m. But here’s a perk for members: they can enter one hour early at 9:30 a.m.. So, if you haven’t signed up for membership yet, it might just be worth considering!

Exciting New Developments

While the nature center has been closed, exciting things have been happening behind the scenes! Construction is underway for the “Gateway to the Southern Appalachians”, an amazing new area that will include a butterfly garden, a renovated barn and farmyard space, and an expanded gift shop. All of these new developments are expected to be ready by summer 2025. Get ready for some fantastic new additions to your visit!

Remembering Leafa

As the center reopens, it also takes a moment to remember a beloved resident. A red panda named Leafa, who passed away on January 13, 2025, due to health issues, was a cherished part of the nature center since 2018. Leafa was the first red panda exhibited in western North Carolina and was instrumental in the Red Panda Species Survival Plan, giving birth to eight cubs during her lifetime. Her legacy will always be a part of the hearts of those who visited the center.

With the WNC Nature Center finally reopening, Asheville is ready to welcome back guests for a fantastic time among nature and animals. Pack your bags, grab your family, and don’t miss out on this wonderful experience!