recovering from hurricane helene

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RiverWatch was significantly impacted by the catastrophic flood that devastated Chimney Rock Village on September 27, 2024. Water and mud surged through both the RiverWatch Grill and the RiverWatch Gift & Coffeehouse when the Rocky Broad River overflowed and swept down Main Street.

Chimney Rock Village lost over 1/3 of its structures, including both homes and businesses. In total, 15 of the village’s 45 businesses were destroyed, while many others suffered varying levels of damage.

Here’s a current list of open businesses:

• April’s Boutique
   
• Bubba O’Leary’s
   
• Chimney Rock Essentials
   
• Chimney Rock Gem Mine / The Sacred Chakra
   
• Chimney Rock Inn
   
• Chimney Rock State Park
   
• Hickory Nut
   
• Native’s Rest
   
• The Finderie
   
• RiverWatch Grill
   
• RiverWatch Gift & Coffeehouse

Here’s a current list of open businesses:

Many others are actively working toward reopening, including:

• Best View Motel
   
• Broad River Inn
   
• Burntshirt Vineyards
   
• Chimney Rock Post Office
   
• Chimney Rock Smokehouse
   
• Chimney Sweeps
   
• The Christmas Shop
   
• Doug Bowman Galleries
   
• Harley Davidson
   
• Riverside Lodge
   
• Village Scoop
   
• Willow Creek

No. For your safety and the safety of the crews actively working, we ask that you do not enter restricted or closed-off areas. These zones are not safe for the public.

No — it is not safe at this time. Many riverbanks were severely eroded during the flood, and the terrain remains unstable in several areas. For your safety and the safety of ongoing recovery efforts, please avoid walking along or entering the river within the village until further notice.

Yes — please check https://drivenc.gov for the most current updates. Here's the latest:

• NC 64 between Hendersonville and Chimney Rock Village: Open to local traffic only.
   
• US 74A from Asheville (via Gerton): Open to local traffic only.
   
• NC 9 from Black Mountain: Open to local traffic only.
   
• The only fully open public route is NC 9 through Lake Lure, from the Columbus/Mill Spring direction.
   

The NCDOT defines local traffic as those who live, work, or have essential business in the affected area.

Yes! Local committees are currently developing plans for events that will support the village’s recovery and draw visitors back to the gorge. Follow us and other Chimney Rock Village businesses on Instagram for the latest updates.

Some areas are still under construction or unpaved, making accessibility limited in places. While sidewalks and streetscape improvements are underway, we advise checking conditions in advance if you require smooth and accessible paths.

While there’s been no significant flooding since the storm, some steep or remote areas still carry a minor risk of landslides during prolonged rain. Please use caution and stay aware of weather conditions.

The recovery has been a massive team effort, supported by state and federal disaster relief funding, FEMA assistance, and countless volunteers. The North Carolina legislature passed significant allocations to restore roads, bridges, and park infrastructure. None of this would’ve been possible without the support of organizations like Spokes of Hope, the Amish volunteers, and the 101st Airborne Division, who were literally digging businesses out of the mud in the early days.

Simply by visiting and supporting local shops, restaurants, and attractions, you’re making a huge impact. Some businesses also have donation jars, and community recovery funds remain open to contributions. Just ask — we’ll happily point you in the right direction!

Yes!

• Village Relief Fund: https://www.givesendgo.com/chimneyrockrelieffund
   
• RiverWatch Grill Recovery: https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-riverwatch-grills-recovery-journey
   

You may also find donation links on many business websites and on the Chimney Rock Village homepage.

Absolutely. Organizations like Spokes of Hope, Friends of Chimney Rock, and other local groups continue to organize trail cleanup and beautification efforts. Weekend volunteers are often welcome — reach out to see how you can help!

The park officially reopened on June 27, 2025, after 9 months of repair and restoration.

Chimney Rock State Park is open seven days a week, with last entrance at 5:30 PM. Reservations are currently required.

Yes — reservations help manage capacity and ensure safety at Chimney Rock State Park.
Reserve online: chimneyrockpark.com/info-and-tickets/
Or call: (828) 625-9611

Yes! The elevator is fully restored and operational.

A temporary bridge is currently in place and fully safe for visitors while a permanent replacement is underway.