CHIMNEY ROCK, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) -- Nine months after Hurricane Helene swept through western North Carolina, Governor Josh Stein stood before the cliffs of Chimney Rock State Park with a message of hope and invitation: it’s time to "rediscover the unforgettable."
The park, which had been closed since the storm caused major damage to roads, bridges, and hiking trails, officially reopened on Friday with limited hours and by reservation.
The reopening marks not just a symbolic milestone, but the start of a push to revive tourism.
Photos: Queen City NewsPhotos: Queen City NewsPhotos: Queen City NewsPhotos: Queen City News“Chimney Rock State Park is a vital landmark that typically attracts 400,000 visitors per year,” said Department of Natural and Cultural Resources Secretary Pamela Cashwell. “It has been an all-hands-on-deck effort to reopen the park, and I am grateful to our team and our partners who have worked so hard on this goal."
At the reopening ceremony on Friday, Governor Stein also signed the Disaster Recovery Act of 2025 - Part II into law, which provides more resources to rebuild storm-damaged areas.
"We can support the region's recovery just by showing up. If you’re planning your summer vacation or a weekend getaway, make sure to experience something that makes western North Carolina unforgettable. And that includes beautiful Chimney Rock State Park," Gov. Stein said.
New campaign for a region in recovery
The governor’s remarks came alongside the launch of a new statewide tourism campaign: "Rediscover the unforgettable western North Carolina."
The message is designed to draw travelers back to the mountains, small towns, and natural landmarks that are the backbone of the region’s economy, including Chimney Rock.
Photos: Queen City NewsPhotos: Queen City NewsPhotos: Queen City NewsPhotos: Queen City News“Tourism is essential to western North Carolina’s economy, and our rural communities are home to so many natural and cultural treasures. It’s important that we keep the recovery going strong by spending our tourist dollars here,” said First Lady Anna Stein.
Local pride also runs deep in this campaign. Country star and North Carolina native Eric Church narrates a new video promoting the region. "I'm proud to be from Western North Carolina. It's where I was born, it's where my soul finds rest," Eric Church said.
Roads repaired, trails reopened
After Helene, the damage was widespread. Roads and bridges were washed out, including the key bridge that led into Chimney Rock State Park. According to Transportation Secretary Joey Hopkins, crews have worked "tirelessly" to restore access, though recovery is ongoing.
Chimney Rock is now welcoming back hikers, families, and tourists, though with a few changes. For now, the park is only open Fridays through Mondays, and reservations are required.
Helene aid
Gov. Stein is pushing federal officials, including the Trump administration and Congress, to approve $19 billion in disaster relief funding for North Carolina. That includes $11.5 billion in new aid and $7.5 billion from previously allocated funds.
The state recently launched Renew NC, a housing recovery program now accepting applications from residents whose homes were damaged in the storm. Homeowners can apply here.
MORE FROM QCNEWS.COM
‘Rediscover the unforgettable’: Chimney Rock State Park in western NC reopens with big message
When it comes to historic flood events like from Hurricane Helene, how do you quantify the unimaginable?
Duke Energy says its response to Helene will help with future hurricanes
Read More Details
Finally We wish PressBee provided you with enough information of ( 'Rediscover the unforgettable': Chimney Rock State Park in western NC reopens with big message )
Also on site :
- RHOM star Larsa Pippen got ‘boob job, nose job, BBL and fillers’ to look like a ‘doll,’ top plastic surgeon claims
- Beloved '90s Actress, 53, Goes Makeup Free in Rare Summer Photos With Husband: 'Make the Time'
- This Underrated Snack Might Be the Secret to Better Health, According to a New Study