One Year After Hurricane Helene: Asheville’s Story of Resilience
A year ago, Hurricane Helene tore through Asheville and Western North Carolina, leaving devastation in its wake. Roads were washed out, bridges collapsed, homes flooded, and the heart of our community was tested in ways few expected. Today, as we mark twelve months since the storm, the work of rebuilding continues.
While headlines may focus on the damage left behind by Hurricane Helene, that is only part of Asheville’s story. Yes, we were hit hard, but we are not defined by what happened; we are defined by how we’ve responded. Our community is open, resilient, and filled with people who rely on tourism not only to recover, but to thrive. Businesses have reopened, trails have been cleared, and our famous mountain views are just as breathtaking as ever. If you’re wondering whether to visit, know this: we’re not just ready, we’re excited to welcome you.
Too often, the media glorifies devastation, leaving potential travelers with an outdated picture of what things are like here. But fall in Asheville is one of the most magical times of year. As the season turns, our forests come alive with deep reds, fiery oranges, and golden yellows. The Blue Ridge Parkway winds through those changing leaves, offering endless scenic stops and trailheads perfect for a crisp morning hike. The River Arts District buzzes with creative energy, while cafés, shops, and cabins like ours provide comfort, warmth, and a deep connection to the community.
We are not closed. We are not a disaster zone. We are a living, breathing town surrounded by nature’s most stunning displays and built on the strength of small business owners, artists, makers, and families. When you choose to travel to Asheville now, you’re doing more than taking a holiday. You’re helping rebuild a beloved community from the inside out. And trust us, it’s still just as beautiful here as you remember, or maybe even more so.
While we’re proud to say that Asheville is open and thriving, it’s also important to pause and recognize the incredible individuals and organizations that made our recovery possible. From housing support to cultural restoration, these efforts are at the heart of why tourism is possible again, and why your visit helps that work continue.
In the months following Helene, the response from local organizations, businesses, and volunteers was nothing short of remarkable. One of the most visible stories comes from Asheville Area Habitat for Humanity, whose teams worked tirelessly to repair damaged homes, rebuild their own facilities, and restore services to communities across Buncombe and Madison counties. Their recovery mission is still ongoing and continues to shape the region’s return to stability.
The Asheville Recovers Engagement Hub was another lifeline in the aftermath of the storm. Developed by the City of Asheville, the hub allowed residents to track infrastructure repairs, access clean-up resources, and stay informed about ongoing housing efforts. It became a tool for transparency and a way to keep the community connected in a time of great uncertainty.
Culturally, Asheville’s arts community showed incredible resilience. Studios and galleries in the River Arts District that suffered severe flooding reopened thanks to the collective support of fellow artists and patrons. Many artists shared space, supplies, and creative energy to help each other get back on their feet, proving once again that creativity thrives even in crisis.
One of the hardest-hit facilities was the Veterans Restoration Quarters shelter, which provides housing and support services for local veterans. When the Swannanoa River flooded, the shelter sustained heavy damage. Since then, recovery efforts have focused on restoring this vital support system for those who served and now need help the most.
Local restaurants also played a crucial role in recovery. Some restructured or relocated, while others jumped into action to serve the community. Notably, Cúrate, a staple of Asheville’s food scene, partnered with World Central Kitchen to deliver free meals to those impacted by the storm, absorbing the costs as part of their commitment to the city’s well-being.
Nature, too, has made a comeback. Iconic stretches of the Blue Ridge Parkway that were closed due to damage have reopened, and trails like Craggy Gardens are once again welcoming hikers. The resilience of the land mirrors the resilience of the people, and each repaired overlook is another step in the region’s healing process.
When you stay in Asheville, you support the businesses, craftspeople, artists, and nonprofits working every day to rebuild and grow stronger.
Our cabins offer a restful base for exploring all that Asheville has to offer. From galleries and gardens to food trucks and farmers markets. If you're curious about our amenities or location, our FAQs page is a great place to start.
Looking for things to do while you're here? Our team has compiled some great ideas for hiking, dining, and exploring on our Asheville area activities guide. If you’re planning a quiet weekend getaway or an extended adventure, there’s plenty to discover.
Asheville is rebuilding not only its infrastructure but also its identity one story, one neighbor, and one cabin stay at a time.