ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Haywood County officials are touting “incredible progress” in recovering from the damage inflicted by Tropical Storm Helene.
Haywood County officials said in the three weeks since Tropical Storm Helene crashed through Western North Carolina, Maggie Valley, Waynesville, Canton, Clyde and Lake Junaluska are rebuilding and emerging stronger every day.
Among the milestones in Haywood County’s recovery — U.S. 276 and N.C. 215 have reopened, offering breathtaking views for those looking to carefully and safely explore. Pisgah National Forest will reopen the Pisgah Ranger District on Friday, Oct. 18. However, visitors should be aware of potential hazards from storm damage in some areas. Click here to learn more about those.
While these roads are now open, other popular fall routes, including the Blue Ridge Parkway and Cataloochee Valley, remain closed. Be sure to check DriveNC.gov for updates and plan your route for smooth travels. For your safety, always proceed with caution, follow posted signs, plan ahead and drive at reduced speeds.
Many people are eager to have some fall fun in Haywood County, so here are some tips on how to visit and support local businesses while being mindful of ongoing recovery efforts.
- Downtown areas, including Waynesville, Canton and Maggie Valley, are open for business.
- Oct. 19: Sip cider and shop at the Apple Harvest Festival in downtown Waynesville. Admission is free. Open 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
- Oct. 19 & 20: Purchase handmade treasures at the Maggie Valley Arts & Crafts Show.
- These seasonal attractions are open: Wheels Through Time, Barber Orchards, Winchester Creek Farm, Maggie Valley Gem Mine, Cold Mountain Corn Maize and Ten Acre Garden.
- Although some hiking trails in Haywood County are temporarily closed, visitors still have great options to explore the outdoors. Enjoy a stroll along the scenic trails at Lake Junaluska or experience the beautiful Dahlia Ridge Trail at Haywood Community College.
How you can help
- Support open businesses! Go to VisitHaywood.com/helene for a list of those that are open and ready to serve you.
- For online shopping, check out VisitHaywood.com/gifthaywood.
- Donations to the Haywood Advancement Foundation go directly to helping small businesses recover from Helene. You can find donation details on VisitHaywood.com/alerts.
With recovery efforts ongoing, it’s important to stay informed about roads, services and lodging availability before traveling to Haywood County. So, please check the county’s Facebook page and website for updates. Visit Haywood continues to collaborate closely with local and state agencies, including Haywood County Government, Emergency Services, the Sheriff’s Office and the Chamber of Commerce, to keep everyone informed and ensure public safety.