A Message Welcoming Visitors Back to Haywood County  

Haywood County -- October 17, 2024: Haywood County Government: In the three weeks since Tropical Storm Helene

fell upon Western North Carolina, Haywood County has seen incredible progress across our five mountain communities - Maggie Valley, Waynesville, Canton, Clyde, and Lake Junaluska. With the continued support of visitors like you, we are rebuilding and emerging stronger every day! 

We’re excited to announce several milestones in Haywood County’s recovery: Hwy 276 and NC 215 are now open, offering breathtaking views for those looking to carefully and safely explore. Additionally, the Pisgah National Forest will reopen the Pisgah Ranger District on Friday, October 18. However, visitors should be aware of potential hazards from storm damage in some areas (please refer to the official press release for more details). 

While these roads are now open, other popular fall routes, including the Blue Ridge Parkway and Cataloochee Valley, remain closed. Be sure to check DriveNC.gov for updates and plan your route for smooth travels. For your safety, always proceed with caution, follow posted signs, plan ahead, and drive at reduced speeds.

We know many people are eager to have some fall fun in Haywood, so here are some tips on how you can come visit our towns right now and support local businesses while being mindful of ongoing recovery efforts.

Downtown areas including Waynesville, Canton, and Maggie Valley are open for business and ready to welcome you! 

Oct. 19:  Sip cider and shop at the Apple Harvest Festival in Downtown Waynesville; free admission, open 10 am - 5p m
Oct. 19 & 20: Purchase handmade treasures at the Maggie Valley Arts & Crafts Show

These seasonal attractions are open and ready to welcome you: Wheels Through Time, Barber Orchards, Winchester Creek Farm, Maggie Valley Gem Mine, Cold Mountain Corn Maize, and Ten Acre Garden.
Although some hiking trails in Haywood County are temporarily closed, visitors still have great options to explore the outdoors. Enjoy a stroll along the scenic trails at Lake Junaluska or experience the beautiful Dahlia Ridge Trail at 

Haywood Community College.

How You Can Help: 

 Support open businesses! Visit VisitHaywood.com/helene for a list of those that are open and ready to serve you. 
For online shopping, check out VisitHaywood.com/gifthaywood. 
Donations to the Haywood Advancement Foundation go directly to helping small businesses recover from Helene. You can find donation details on VisitHaywood.com/alerts. 

With recovery efforts ongoing, it’s important to stay informed about roads, services, and lodging availability before traveling to Haywood County, so please continue to check our Facebook and website for updates. The HCTDA continues to collaborate closely with local and state agencies, including Haywood County Government, Emergency Services, the Sheriff's Office, and the Chamber of Commerce, to keep everyone informed and ensure public safety.
We’re excited to welcome you back soon—stronger than ever!