BLOWING ROCK, N.C. — One year after the devastating effects of Hurricane Helene brought tourism to a sudden halt in western North Carolina, the mountain town of Blowing Rock is beginning to breathe again.

The storm, which struck in late September 2024, caused widespread landslides, downed trees, and left much of the Blue Ridge Parkway impassable. Hotels, restaurants, and trailheads were shuttered for weeks — some for months — as emergency crews worked around the clock to restore access and safety to one of North Carolina’s most beloved travel destinations.

Now, as the leaves start to turn and fall tourism season kicks off, Blowing Rock is not only open, it’s bustling.

“It’s been a long road,” Mayor Linda Hensley said, standing outside the newly reopened Blowing Rock Art and History Muse

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