McDowell County welcomes "Mindful Visitation" to some areas as recovery efforts continue in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.
McDowell County, N.C. (Oct. 29, 2024) - On Sept. 27, 2024, pre-Hurricane storms began rolling through all parts of Western North Carolina. By the following weekend, much of the Blue Ridge Mountains region had faced unprecedented flooding and storm damage.
McDowell County, N.C., was no exception.
“We are grateful that we suffered minimal loss of life, but our towns, streetscapes and natural attractions have been forever changed. We are working to rebuild,” said Shannon Odom, Executive Director of Destination McDowell, McDowell County’s Tourism Development Authority.
McDowell County, N.C., is located at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains and Foothills of Western North Carolina.
“It’s important to travel with consideration through McDowell County and all areas of Western North Carolina, and understand that plans may need to be adjusted while visiting,” Odom said.
The Destination McDowell Visitor Center in Old Fort was severely damaged. In the early aftermath of the storm, staff members of the McDowell County Tourism Development Authority supported relief efforts by assisting local EMS & Rescue teams with Hurricane Helene Response & Recovery Hotline Relief efforts.
Now, their focus has shifted to assisting local businesses in recovery efforts and providing updates to keep the public informed on McDowell County’s progress.
“More than ever, our local businesses need your patronage as soon as they are ready. Some haven’t suffered physical damage, but will still feel the effects of Hurricane Helene as this would normally be the height of fall color leaf season,” said Odom.
What’s open in McDowell County?
While most of the popular and scenic destinations in McDowell County are closed to visitors, the City of Marion has largely resumed normal operations and businesses are open and ready to greet visitors.
The Marion Business Association’s Facebook page is being updated regularly with things to see and do, along with the association’s website, where a list of shopping, dining, maps and guides are available in the “Explore Marion” drop-down menu. Exits from Interstate 40 into Marion are open. When planning your visit, consult the North Carolina Department of Transportation’s website for updates on road openings and closures.
Know before you go: Considerate travel through McDowell County
Destination McDowell has created the McDowell County Openings Map that shows which parts of McDowell County are safe for travel and open to visitors.
To stay informed on the community’s needs, and the progress being made in McDowell County, follow Destination McDowell’s social media accounts to know when trails, breweries and art galleries are back open.
“The spirit of our community and support we’ve received from across the nation has been humbling,” Odom said. “The resilience of Blue Ridge Mountain communities has shone through during this experience, and McDowell County will emerge as the outdoor recreational jewel that it has always been.”
How can you help from afar?
Destination McDowell has corralled extensive information at this link on how the public can support the county’s local businesses without leaving home. This includes:
- GoFundMe opportunities for those hardest hit by Hurricane Helene.
- Volunteer opportunities to help clean up are available through the G5 Trail Collective and McDowell Tech Trail School.
- Shop for McDowell County-crafted artwork online at local shops.
- Plan now for later - Schedule a future visit to McDowell County now, including booking overnight accommodations. Information is available at this link.
Travel and safety update information
This comprehensive list of travel and safety updates is available on the Destination McDowell website.
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About McDowell County, N.C.
McDowell County, N.C., is located at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains and Foothills of Western North Carolina. It is home to an abundance of natural beauty with nearly 200 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails, charming small towns, and cultural experiences that celebrate its rich Southern Appalachian history. With easy access to the Blue Ridge Parkway and the graceful bends and turns of the Catawba River, moments of awe and beauty are plentiful throughout the county. More information about McDowell County, N.C., may be found at www.destinationmcdowell.com.
