South Mountains State Park to partially reopen for the first time since Helene
Add Axios as your preferred source to
see more of our stories on Google.
Photo: Courtesy of North Carolina State Parks
South Mountains State Park will partially reopen on March 17, the North Carolina Division of Parks and Recreation announced Monday.
Why it matters: The state park has been closed since fall 2024 due to damage from Hurricane Helene. The state continues to grapple with recovering from the devastating storm.
Between the lines: South Mountains State Park is roughly 90 minutes from Charlotte.
What to expect: Clear Creek Access (5999 Branstrom Orchard St., Morganton, NC) will reopen for day use.
- Clear Creek and Lake View trails will be open for hiking and horseback riding, plus picnic sites and fishing will be open at the lake.
- Keep an eye out for signs and avoid areas that remain closed to avoid safety hazards.
What's next: South Mountains State Park's Jacob Fork Access and visitor center (3001 South Mountain Park Ave. in Connelly Springs, NC) is expected to partially reopen in April.
Zoom out: Several other parts of the state are still feeling the impact of Helene. I-40 partially reopened in western North Carolina earlier this month. Other state parks still feeling Helene's impact include:
- Chimney Rock State Park's Rumbling Bald Access has reopened. "The main attraction remains closed indefinitely," per the park's website.
- Elk Knob State Park's backcountry trail remains closed.
- Lake James State Park's hiking and biking trails are mostly open. Mill's Creek trail, East Wimba trail, and West Wimba trail remain closed, as does a footbridge on the southern leg of the Overmountain Victory trail.
- Mount Mitchell State Park is "under long-term closure until further notice," per the park's website.
- New River State Park is open at U.S. 221 access only. The park's drive-to campground, visitor center, community buildings, picnic shelters and trails are open. All other access points remain closed.