Good news and bad news on the Blue Ridge Parkway, according to the National Park Service. The good news is that around 75% of the 469-mile scenic route will open by Spring, including from Grandfather Mountain to Blowing Rock. The bad news is the worst damage Helene caused to the Parkway spans from Linville Falls south to Mount Mitchell. Facilities at Linville Falls, including the visitor center, picnic area comfort station, and portions of the campground, were destroyed, and staff have documented over 48 landslides and other storm-related damage in those 38 miles. These sections of the Parkway between Linville and Asheville will be closed for ALL of 2025. The photo is a mere sampling of the damage caused by Helene. Photo courtesy NPS.
