Blue Ridge Parkway Closed Indefinitely Due to Safety Concerns

ASHEVILLE, N.C. — A stretch of the Blue Ridge Parkway, a beloved scenic route that winds through the Appalachian Mountains, has been closed indefinitely due to ongoing safety concerns, according to the National Park Service. The closure affects a section of the parkway near Asheville, North Carolina, and officials have not provided a timeline for when the road may reopen.

In North Carolina, the two-lane highway meanders 252 miles from the Virginia line to the entrance of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. All 252 miles are closed, as crews clear fallen trees and debris and assess damage to the roadway.

The decision comes after several inspections revealed significant damage caused by recent storms, including landslides and the potential for further erosion in the affected areas. “Our priority is ensuring the safety of the public and our staff,” said a spokesperson for the National Park Service. “We are working diligently to assess the full extent of the damage and develop a plan for repairs, but at this time, we cannot provide a reopening date.”

The Blue Ridge Parkway, which stretches 469 miles through Virginia and North Carolina, is one of the most visited units of the National Park System, drawing millions of tourists annually with its panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, hiking trails, and cultural heritage sites. The indefinite closure has left local businesses and tourism officials concerned about the potential impact on the upcoming fall season, which is typically one of the busiest times of the year due to the region’s stunning autumn foliage.

The parkway is both a local route for residents and a huge draw for visitors who take in the mountain air and views from numerous overlooks and hiking trails along its route. The park service estimates that nearly 16.8 million people visited the parkway last year, spending nearly $1.4 billion in nearby communities.

The National Park Service has reopened U.S. 441, also known as Newfound Gap Road, which runs through Great Smoky Mountains National Park between Cherokee, North Carolina, and Gatlinburg, Tennessee. As on the parkway, commercial vehicles are prohibited on U.S. 441 through the park.

The National Park Service has urged the public to stay updated through official channels regarding any changes or reopening plans. In the meantime, detours and alternative routes are available for travelers looking to explore the Blue Ridge region.