American Grit: Western North Carolina

When a tropical storm spurred by Hurricane Helene swept the North Carolina mountains on Sept 27, 2024,  the devastation across Appalachia exceeded expectations. Entire towns such as Chimney Rock were ravaged by epic rainfall encompassing 25 counties, triggering cascading mudslides and swift flooding from nearby rivers and streams. Road closures were rampant, including parts of the Blue Ridge Parkway and Interstate 40. The apocalyptic storm caused significant power outages and severed communications networks. Extensive areas had no potable water till mid October through early November, impacting thousands of businesses and residents, many of whom saw their homes and livelihoods wash away, all at once. Swannanoa River floodwaters surged above 15 feet, enveloping Asheville, submerging Biltmore Village in mud and wreckage. The first frost came in mid October, adding another layer of misery. Over 100 lives were lost. The aftermath: an economic disaster of mammoth proportions, creating tangled logistics and formidable obstacles. On a personal level: a heartbreaking, unimaginable, life changing crisis. And yet, the daunting challenges ahead were no match for the limitless strength and optimistic tenacity of Western North Carolinians.

Having visited the Blue Ridge & Pisgah regions four times since this catastrophe, I am continually astounded by the resilience, congeniality, welcoming nature, and comeback kid attitude of every human in our western Carolina mountains. After a slow start, recovery has gained traction, invigorating the spirit of our mountain neighbors and rebirth of these historic, charming mountain towns. 

As of early Summer 2026,  parts of the BRP/Blue Ridge Parkway remain closed, along with countless access roads in and around Asheville, Black Mountain, extending into McDowell, Mitchell, and neighboring counties. Even now, numerous locals are struggling to rebuild, working interim jobs, or living in temporary quarters until they figure out their next step. Despite the odds, our unflappable neighbors are rebuilding their homes and lives, restarting businesses, opening new ones. Inspirational.

Following our first Asheville visit three months post Helene to deliver food, shoes, clothing, cleaning supplies, and spend money with local merchants, hubs Eric and I have returned with Rennie, our Golden, to explore, dine, hike, and shop in and around this friendly, trendy town, known for its positive energy and artistic vibe. Though flooding tore up the River Arts district along the French Broad River, it’s back and abuzz with new life.

After a stroll or cycle along the river trail, we typically stop at White Duck Tacos https://whiteducktacoshop.com; or Summit Coffee for java jolts

https://www.summitcoffee.com/riverartsdistrict Luscious local tastes!

Elevating our exploration these last two stays, we've discovered Little Switzerland, finding a home at Switzerland Inn https://www.switzerlandinn.com, Aptly named for its jaw dropping long range views, it’s an idyllic base for hiking, exploring the Blue Ridge, meandering the village, or simply enjoying the breezy outdoors. Onsite dining on the Terrace, or inside at the Chalet Restaurant and adjoining Fowl Play Pub is a gastronomic delight.

Nature lovers, take note: hundreds of trail miles have been restored with crushed gravel, including Catawba Falls, Tom’s Creek Falls, Linville Falls.

When appetite alarms sound in the area of Old Fort, a stop at Hillman Beer https://hillmanbeer.com is the ticket for locally sourced, delicious, inventive fare, with thirst quenching craft brews. The patio is a cool place to hang; four legged patrons welcome.

These mountain communities depend largely on tourism dollars for their bread and butter. Good news is, like their survival instincts, hospitality here is unrivaled. With a spectrum of private rentals, camping, and boutique to resort style hotels, there’s a comfy bed for every head. We favor the AC Asheville for its downtown convenience, stylish, pet friendly rooms and lovely rooftop patio. https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/avlac-ac-hotel-asheville-downtown/overview/

View from AC Rooftop

Carolina Mountain towns are brimming with wineries, farmstands (yummy local honey!), and homegrown shops with handcrafts, upscale fashions, and vintage goods. Hunger meets happiness at family diners, traditional and fusion restaurants, and lively, food worthy breweries, often featuring musical venues. When the great outdoors comes calling, we get up with locals at Asheville Hiking Tours https://www.ashevillehikingtours.com/ to find scenic trails and vistas otherwise missed. For water sports enthusiasts, Asheville Adventure Company offers kayaking or splashy guided whitewater excursions https://ashevilleadventurecompany.com/

While much work remains to be done, Western Carolina is open for business. It’s a snap to pick a valley or summit spot on the NC mountain map, then drive, fly, bike, or amble into a vibrant, picturesque travel experience.

Go. Be part of the renaissance. Dollars spent yield memories cherished. Our mountain neighbors are warmly waiting.