Asheville, North Carolina, September 18, 2025 News Summary A 26-mile section of the Blue Ridge Parkway has reopened, marking a recovery milestone in Asheville, NC, after Hurricane Helene caused extensive damage. This reopening comes just before the peak fall foliage season, crucial for local tourism. North Carolina’s Governor has requested additional federal aid to support ongoing recovery efforts, as damage estimates from the hurricane reach nearly $60 billion. The National Park Service continues to prioritize restoring access to impacted areas while some tourist sites remain closed due to ongoing repairs. Asheville, North Carolina – A 26-mile section of the Blue Ridge Parkway reopened on September 15, marking a significant recovery milestone after Hurricane Helene. This section runs from Asheville, North Carolina, to Mount Mitchell State Park and is part of the National Park Service (NPS) recovery efforts from the hurricane that struck nearly a year ago. The reopening was announced following the completion of landslide repairs caused by Hurricane Helene. The Blue Ridge Parkway is a 469-mile-long highway operated and maintained by the NPS, designated as a National Park. The NPS has prioritized restoring road access on the Parkway, implementing a phased approach with new projects commencing in 45 remaining locations. North Carolina Governor Josh Stein requested an additional $13.5 billion in aid from Congress on the same day as the reopening announcement, emphasizing the need for continued support. Damage estimates from Hurricane Helene total nearly $60 billion, impacting about one-third of the state’s population. The NPS received an additional $64 million from the Department of Homeland Security for recovery efforts, supplementing approximately $3 billion in federal funding since President Trump’s administration began. The reopening of the 26-mile stretch comes just in time for the peak of the fall foliage season, a critical time for tourism in the area. The reopened section includes access to popular sites within Craggy Gardens, such as the Craggy Gardens Visitor Center, Craggy Pinnacle Trail, and some short sections of the Mountains to Sea Trail. However, several other attractions within the area remain closed due to ongoing storm damage. Mt. Mitchell State Park has been closed for repairs since November 2024, and significant work is still necessary in the Linville Falls area, particularly from milepost 317 south to Mount Mitchell State Park. Hurricane Helene had a broad impact, affecting 885 miles of road on Forest Service property, with 30% of those roadways completely destroyed. The reopening signifies hope for recovery and revitalization of tourism in the area, which had been significantly impacted by the hurricane. Currently, 114 contiguous miles of the Parkway are open to travelers through the Asheville area. Visitors are advised to check the Parkway’s website for updates on closures and conditions before planning their trips. The Blue Ridge Parkway is recognized as the longest road planned as a single unit in the U.S., winding through the Blue Ridge Mountains in North Carolina and Virginia. The efforts to restore access highlight the resilience of the community and the ongoing commitment to recovery following the hurricane’s devastating effects. Frequently Asked Questions What section of the Blue Ridge Parkway reopened? A 26-mile section of the Blue Ridge Parkway reopened on September 15, running from Asheville, North Carolina, to Mount Mitchell State Park. What caused the damage to the Blue Ridge Parkway? The damage was caused by Hurricane Helene, which struck nearly a year ago, leading to landslides and road closures. How much federal funding has been allocated for the recovery efforts? The NPS received an additional $64 million from the Department of Homeland Security for recovery efforts, supplementing approximately $3 billion in federal funding since President Trump’s administration began. When is the peak fall foliage season for tourism? The reopening comes just in time for the peak of the fall foliage season, which is a critical time for tourism in the area. Key Features Feature Description Section Reopened 26-mile section from Asheville to Mount Mitchell State Park Reopening Date September 15 Funding for Recovery $64 million from DHS, $3 billion since 2017 Damage Estimates Nearly $60 billion, impacting 1/3 of the state’s population Areas Open Craggy Gardens Visitor Center, Craggy Pinnacle Trail Current Open Parkway Miles 114 contiguous miles Future Repairs Road access restoration in 45 locations Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic HERE Resources Western North Carolina Prepares for Vibrant Autumn Foliage Asheville Welcomes Autumn Enthusiasts Asheville Named Most Affordable Fall Foliage Destination Restoration of Recovery Funding for Hurricane Helene Victims Asheville, NC Gears Up for a Vibrant Fall Season Asheville Named Most Affordable Fall-Foliage Destination Asheville Ranks as Top Retirement Destination for Adventurous Seniors Asheville Tourism Shows Signs of Recovery Amid Challenges Asheville, North Carolina Rated as the Most Beautiful Place to Retire The Phoenix Retreat Center Reopens After Flooding Additional Resources WLOS: Blue Ridge Parkway Reopens Outside Online: A Year After Hurricane Helene Fox 5 Atlanta: Hurricane Helene Blue Ridge Parkway Reopens Southern Living: Blue Ridge Parkway Reopens Fox Weather: Hurricane Helene Blue Ridge Parkway Reopens Wikipedia: Blue Ridge Parkway
