Tourism officials in Tennessee have announced that most of the state, including the well-known tourist spot Gatlinburg, is ready to welcome visitors again. Getty Images
As the aftermath of Hurricane Helene continues to unfold, tourism officials in states affected by the storm are carefully navigating the complex task of guiding visitors about which areas are safe to visit. They are balancing the need for economic activity in less impacted communities with the ongoing recovery efforts in harder-hit regions.
In Western North Carolina, Eastern Tennessee, and other mountainous areas hit by Helene, the storm coincided with the start of the fall foliage season, a time when many tourists typically flock to these regions. Unfortunately, numerous state and national parks remain closed, while some towns and counties are working to restore power and communication services.
Currently, Asheville and most surrounding areas in Western North Carolina are not open to visitors. Officials have issued strong advisories urging travellers to avoid this region due to ongoing issues like flooding, landslides, and road closures, which pose serious risks. Additionally, many residents are still experiencing power outages and shortages of essential supplies like water, food, and gasoline.
Despite these challenges, some parts of Western North Carolina are open to tourists. A recent travel advisory from Visit North Carolina highlights specific areas in the far western part of the state that are ready to welcome visitors, such as Murphy in Cherokee County, Hayesville in Clay County, Robbinsville in Graham County, Franklin and Highlands in Macon County, and Bryson City in Swain County. Travellers are encouraged to call ahead to confirm their plans and check for safe travel routes to these destinations.
The situation has sparked discussions among potential visitors about whether they should go ahead with their travel plans or stay away. Many people have turned to social media for guidance, expressing their desire to support local communities while being considerate of the ongoing recovery efforts. For instance, a user on the Visit Highlands NC Facebook page inquired about the best course of action for visiting the area, stating, "We just want to do what is best for the Highlands community."
In Old Fort, North Carolina, a house destroyed by the storm lies in ruins next to a tourist information sign. Getty Images
In response, some local businesses have expressed a warm welcome to visitors, while others have noted mixed feelings. One user highlighted that visiting local shops and restaurants is acceptable, but warned that excessive driving could hinder utility workers and local residents still dealing with storm aftermath.
In the nearby town of Highlands, local officials reported that many businesses, stores, and restaurants are open, and they considered themselves fortunate to have avoided the worst effects of the storm.
Tennessee also experienced the impact of Helene, but officials have reported that much of the state remains open for business. Popular tourist destinations like Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville are still accessible, although travellers are advised to exercise caution and check conditions before heading out. Some parts of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park are open, but outdoor activities are discouraged due to safety concerns and limited staffing.
In Southwest Virginia, tourism officials are urging caution when travelling, where conditions can be challenging. They noted that while some areas are open to visitors, safety remains a top priority, and travellers should check the latest conditions before visiting.
As recovery efforts continue, it’s crucial for travelers to confirm their plans and ensure that their chosen destinations can accommodate visitors safely. Information on park closures, recovery efforts, and travel resources can help ensure a smooth journey for those planning to explore these beautiful but affected areas.
