October 9, 2024, 2:49 p.m.

As we welcome visitors back to Jackson County, N.C., please know that while many of our businesses are open and eager to serve you, our community is still recovering from the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. We are keeping those in the path of Hurricane Milton in our thoughts during this time.

While our damage wasn’t as severe as our neighbors’, the ripple effects are still being felt. As a result, your visit might differ somewhat from past or future trips, but there are still many ways to enjoy and support our community.

As you visit our beautiful mountains, we ask for your understanding, patience and thoughtful consideration. In the spirit of full transparency, here’s what you should know.

Several beloved natural attractions are open including Nantahala National Forest sites: Silver Run Falls, Whitewater Falls, Whiteside Mountain, and Panthertown Valley. In addition Sylva’s Pinnacle Park is open. The N.C. stretch of the Blue Ridge Parkway, parts of Great Smoky Mountains National Park and other stretches remain closed while damage assessments are underway. Cleanup crews are working daily so you may seek refuge in these outdoor spaces, but you may encounter downed trees, and some campsites will be closed. 

Before you travel here, be sure to check with your lodging host to confirm your reservation. If you’re staying in a vacation rental, consider bringing groceries, as our stores are stabilizing supplies.

While you’re here, we hope you shop and dine locally, as it will make a positive impact on the families who own our small businesses. Now is a great time to pick up one-of-a-kind holiday gifts, and if you can’t visit in person, consider purchasing gift cards from our local businesses as a meaningful way to show your support.

We have many events coming up this season that are still taking place – The Cashiers Valley Leaf Festival is confirmed for Oct 11-13 and the WNC Pottery Festival is on Nov. 2. Please check our event listings for updates.

Finally, we ask that you please consider supporting our area by contributing to one of the many organizations working to help those hit hardest by Hurricane Helene.

By visiting us with an open heart and mind, and a spirit of understanding, you will both  enjoy our area’s unique charm and play a critical role in helping our small businesses recover. Your support means everything to us right now.

Our deepest gratitude goes to all those helping within the region, and we thank you for your kindness and for standing with us during this time of recovery.

Nick Breedlove
Executive Director of Tourism, Jackson County, NC

(Photo taken in Sylva October 3, 2024)