Cataloochee Valley Reopens April 4: A Step Toward Recovery After Hurricane Helene

Cataloochee Valley -- After months of closure due to severe damage from Hurricane Helene, a portion of the beloved Cataloochee Valley in Great Smoky Mountains National Park will officially reopen at noon on Friday, April 4, 2025.

Park officials and locals alike are celebrating this partial return of access to one of Western North Carolina’s most scenic and historic regions.

The reopening is a significant milestone following the storm’s devastating impact last September, which triggered landslides, washed out roads, and uprooted large swaths of forest. For months, the area has been off-limits to the public while repair crews worked to stabilize infrastructure and ensure safety.

What’s Reopening:
Visitors will now be able to access:

Cataloochee Entrance Road to the Beech Grove School

Cataloochee Creek Road up to the Old Cataloochee Entrance Road Bridge

Old Highway 284, which reopens to vehicle traffic

Beyond the Beech Grove School, the road remains closed to motor vehicles due to ongoing repairs. However, hikers are permitted to walk in beyond that point, though park officials urge caution — the road surface is rough, with large ditches and debris still present.

Trails, Horses, and Hiking Conditions
Most hiking trails in the area are open but remain unmaintained, meaning visitors should expect:

Downed trees

Washed-out sections

Missing footbridges

Potential stream crossings

Equestrian access is still restricted on several trails because of unstable conditions and obstructions. Trail riders should check the park’s website before planning any horseback excursions.

Campgrounds Still Closed
Despite this reopening, Cataloochee Campground, the group campground, and the horse camp remain closed until further notice. Park officials are continuing assessments and repairs, with a future reopening timeline dependent on weather and funding.

Getting There: Proceed with Caution
Reaching Cataloochee Valley has never been a cakewalk, and it still isn’t. The entrance via Cove Creek Road is:

Narrow and winding

Gravel-surfaced with steep drop-offs

Guardrail-free, with sharp turns

Vehicles must navigate slowly, and drivers should be prepared to yield or reverse on tight corners, especially when encountering horse trailers or RVs.

Wildlife and Wilderness: Know Before You Go
Cataloochee Valley is famous for its elk population, and spring is a prime season for wildlife viewing. However, the park reminds all visitors:

Keep at least 150 feet (or more) from elk and all wildlife

Do not approach or feed animals

Violating wildlife distance laws can result in fines or worse

Additionally, there are no gas stations, stores, or cell service in the area. Come prepared — pack water, snacks, a full tank of gas, and download maps ahead of time.

Park Superintendent Cassius Cash stated, “We’re excited to welcome visitors back to part of Cataloochee. While there’s still work to do, this is a huge step toward full restoration.”

WNCTimes

Image: WNCTimes