Last Updated on September 3, 2026 5:43 pm
Blue Ridge Parkway is opening a 30-day public comment period on Sept. 1 for a site management plan to restore visitor access, rebuild storm-damaged facilities, and build a more resilient future for the Linville Falls area — one of the region's most heavily visited destinations.
Hurricane Helene caused extensive damage to Linville Falls in September 2024, destroying the visitor center and forcing the closure of the campground and picnic area. Visitors can still reach the falls themselves, but recovery of the surrounding facilities has been ongoing since the storm.
The site plan will evaluate options for rebuilding in ways that improve safety, accessibility, and long-term resilience. Because the area is prone to flooding, planners are considering placing new facilities in locations less vulnerable to future storms. Investments under consideration include improvements to the visitor access area, rehabilitation of the campground along with new septic and water systems, repairs to the picnic area and surrounding grounds, and repairs to the Linville Gorge Trail system.
The Parkway has scheduled two public meetings, offered both virtually and in person, to share early draft concepts and answer questions. The first is set for Sept. 9 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Morganton Community House, 120 N King Street in Morganton. The second is scheduled for Sept. 10 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Sam Center Auditorium at Mayland Community College, 200 Mayland Drive in Spruce Pine.
Blue Ridge Parkway Superintendent Tracy Swartout said, “We look forward to the day when we can welcome visitors back to new and improved facilities” at Linville Falls, adding that the agency values public feedback in shaping the rebuilding effort.
Public comments will be accepted online at parkplanning.nps.gov — select “Open for Comment” — or by mail to Blue Ridge Parkway, Attn: Linville Falls Recovery Project, 199 Hemphill Knob Rd, Asheville, NC 28803. The comment period runs through Sept. 30. Design and construction on the project are expected to begin in 2027.
