Map shows parts of western NC open for tourism

A new map shows which portions of western North Carolina are open for tourists.

The map by Felt assigns the following categories to counties:

• Green: Welcoming visitors
• Yellow: Check website/call ahead for limitations
• Red: Closed to visitors with exceptions noted in green or yellow

Helene devastated the region in late September with deadly flooding and mudslides. Areas were without power and water for weeks, and some people are still missing. WRAL News has a guide to how to help.

Last week, Gov. Roy Cooper declared non-essential travel is allowed again in the western portion of the state, where hundreds of roads remain closed. According to Visit NC, most highways in western North Carolina are open, but many remain closed, including both Interstate 40 and Interstate 26 at the Tennessee state line, impacting travel between North Carolina and Tennessee.

Drivers should consult DriveNC.gov for information on open roads and safe routes to reach their destination.

One of the hardest hit areas was Asheville, in Buncombe County. According to Asheville’s tourism director, the area is reopening for tourists in stages.

As of Oct. 19, Visit NC’s travel update page, using state transportation and safety data, designated Buncombe County, Asheville and Black Mountain as safe to visit, with a recommendation to for visitors to “plan ahead.” Tourism experts encourage visitors to check with their lodging provider and any businesses they wish to visit to confirm their availability.

Weaverville was cleared for safe travel, while Swannanoa remains under a “do not travel” advisory as a high impact area.

North Carolina. Most highways in Western North Carolina are open with many destinations ready and welcoming visitors for fall travel. However, some roads remain closed or have restrictions. Of particular note are closures on both I-40 and I-26 at the Tennessee state line impacting travel between North Carolina and Tennessee.

Grandfather Mountain has reopened, and Biltmore plans to reopen on Nov. 2.

Many people flock to western North Carolina in the fall to see fall color.

ExploreFall, a website previously featured on WRAL, shows where leaf peepers can find the most vibrant color.

WYFF News recently shared video on their Facebook page, writing “Helene tried to scrape the beauty off leaf season in the Carolina mountains. This is proof the storm did not succeed.”