The flowers have begun blooming, the days are getting longer, and it is safe to say that life is beginning to return here in the expansive Blue Ridge mountains. As winter continues to come to a close, we are getting so excited to begin welcoming guests to our new farm in the coming spring. We have so many exciting offerings to share and we can’t wait to welcome you to our stunning new property! Whether you’re coming to meet our alpacas, explore the mountains, or indulge in a local foodie tour, we want to make sure you’re equipped with all you need to know for your next adventure. Asheville and its surrounding area is going to look a little different this year, and we are here to answer any questions you may have about coming around these mountains.
If you keep up with the news, you might have heard, Western North Carolina was hugely impacted by Hurricane Helene back in the fall of 2024. Many peoples lives were forever changed by the storm, as well as the stunning landscape that draws people in from all over the world. In terms of our farm specifically, we were incredibly lucky to not have been directly impacted by the storm. Other than a few down trees in our forest, we remain fully functional and open for business! Since our area was unaffected by the storm, we were able to host many folks who were affected by Helene, including a helicopter pilot who flew here to help with relief efforts. We felt so grateful that we were not only fortunate enough to have our land remain intact, but to also be able to offer comfort to folks that needed refuge. It has been a really difficult experience for the region, but we continue to find ourselves awestruck and inspired by how strongly this community stood together in the face of disaster.
Despite these positive changes, we’re still feeling the impacts of Helene. Tourism has dropped significantly since the storm. Our farm depends on tourist visits, as do many of the charming local businesses that Asheville is known for. As the Western North Carolina community ventures on the journey towards rebuilding, out-of-towners have the opportunity to help us recover. You can be part of the comeback. The news coverage of this disaster was widely spread, but it didn’t always show the big picture. The effects of helene were scattered throughout the region, and while you may not be able to go swimming in Swannanoa, you can find lots of great adventures in Brevard. Downtown Asheville is open for business and sure to be bustling this spring and summer. So yes, while some areas were severely impacted, there are still plenty of sites to see and an array of activities to do in and around the Asheville area. We’ve put together list of some of those activities below, and we’ve also answered some frequently asked question, so you can be well prepared for your next trip to the beautiful blue ridge mountains!
Towns and Areas That Are Open and Ready for Visitors:
While some parts of Western North Carolina are still recovering, there are plenty of places you can visit without worry. Here are the areas that are up and running:
Asheville
Asheville is ready and open for business!
Leicester
Leicester, NC is the quaint town in which our farm is located. We are just a short 20 minute drive into Asheville, but it has an incredible rural landscape that makes you feel far from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Brevard
About an hour from the farm is Brevard, home of over 100 waterfall hikes. Brevard received minimal damage in the storm, so you can find lots of great hiking in this area. On your way out, make sure to check out downtown Brevard for delicious eat.
Black Mountain
Downtown Black Mountain is still fully intact and welcoming visitors. Enjoy this beautiful mountain town with charming boutiques and unique cuisine.
Hendersonville
Just south of Asheville, you will find Hendersonville. Hendersonville is home to many farms, shops, and restaurants. You can also enter the Blue Ridge Parkway from Hendersonville!
Towns and Areas to Exercise Caution When Visiting:
While many spots are back open, some areas were hit harder by the storm. We are beyond grateful to all those who continue to work diligently and tirelessly to rebuild areas that were devastated by Hurricane Helene. There are so many unsung heroes out there working to make it safe for the local community, as well as visitors. You can still visit, but be prepared for some damage. These places are still in recovery:
River Arts District
You can visit some parts, but it was heavily impacted, and you will see storm damage.
Biltmore Village
The Biltmore itself is open for business, but the surrounding village was submerged during the storm, and there is visible flood damage.
Swannanoa
Swannanoa receive tremendous flooding and was one of the most devastated areas post-Helene. They will rebuild, but recovery will be slow.
Marshall
Marshall is a quaint town north of Asheville right along the French Broad River. The entirety of its downtown was submerged in the storm and it will be a long road to recovery.
Mount Mitchell
Mount Mitchell and 40 or so miles surrounding in on the parkway was devastated by landslides and down trees. It is estimated to re-open next year, but we are all hoping for sooner.
Activities You Can Enjoy This Spring:
Despite the challenges, there’s no shortage of things to do in the Asheville area! Here’s a list of some of our favorites:
Hiking and Outdoor Adventures:
- DuPont State Forest
- Located in Brevard. DuPont is home to some of the most amazing waterfall hike in the area. We recommend the High Falls and Triple Falls hike.
- Pisgah National Forest
- With over 500,000 acres of lush forest, Pisgah is a must visit on your trip to Asheville. for more information on where to visit, check out ExploreAsheville
- Max Patch
- A world renowned trail offering 360° mountain views atop a bald meadow.
- Blue ridge Parkway
- Check ExploreAsheville’s Blue Ridge Parkway updates
Alpaca Experiences:
Here, at Durrant Farms Estate, we have some pretty great entertainment around the farm. Beyond our miles of hiking trails and idyllic pond, we have our special herd experiences that will bring you up close and personal with our alpacas and llamas! Our unique experiences are listed below:
- Brunch
- Enjoy a serene morning with your choice of coffee, juice, tea, and water, accompanied by fresh fruit and pastries. All while hanging out with our adorable alpacas and llamas!
- Happy Hour
- Prefer an evening experience? Join us for Happy Hour! Bring your own beverage (BYOB), and we’ll provide water, snacks, and glassware. Plus, the alpaca snacks – they love a treat too!
- Llama Trekking (Coming Soon!)
Biltmore Estate:
While Biltmore Village may show the scars of the storm, the Biltmore itself received minimal damage and is open for visitors. You’ll be able to explore the mansion, gardens, and grounds, although the village area will still be recovering.
North Carolina Arboretum:
If you’re looking for alternatives to the Biltmore Gardens, the Arboretum is a fantastic option, designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, the same mastermind behind Central Park and the Biltmore’s own gardens.
Botanical Gardens:
Take a peaceful stroll near UNC Asheville and enjoy the blooming beauty.
Local Restaurants & Beverages:
Most of Asheville’s beloved eateries, breweries, and vineyards are open and ready for you to enjoy. While the River Arts District and Biltmore Village are still recovering, the rest of Asheville is bustling with life. Here are some of our favorite restaurants:
- Botiwalla
- This Indian street grill is a local favorite in West Asheville. The food and service you receive are stellar for their reasonable pricing.
- Iron and Oak
- Iron and Oak is only a 20 minute drive from the farm and home to possibly the juiciest brisket in all of Western North Carolina. Don’t believe me? Try it for yourself!
- Cúrate
- This Spanish style tapas restaurant and bar is a great place for a date night or large gathering. Nestled into downtown Asheville, Cúrate will take you on a exquisite cuisine journey. Make sure you make a reservation ahead of time!
- Sunny Pointe
- This is by far the most popular brunch spot in Asheville, and for good reason! We recommend the Crab Cake Benny.
- Twisted Laurel
- Twisted Laurel has an amazing array of cuisines, each more delicious than the next. There is a location in downtown Asheville, but also one in Weaverville, so make sure you check which one you’re headed to when mapping your route.
For beverages, you can visit:
Things to Be Cautious Of and Prepare For:
Though the area is beautiful and welcoming, there are some things to be mindful of while traveling here in the wake of the storm:
- Riverside Areas
Expect to see some storm residue along riversides. - Down Trees
While cleanup crews have been working tirelessly, there are still some downed trees, especially along hiking trails and roadsides. - Fragile Landscape
When hiking, be extra cautious of the fragile landscape, which may still be recovering from the storm’s impact. Most well-trafficked area’s will have signs for when and where to be cautious.
Frequently Asked Questions for Visiting Durrant Farms Estate
Will storm damage be visible on the way to the farm?
You’ll likely notice some storm residue along riversides, particularly if your route passes near a river. Downed trees are also still visible on some roads, though we’ve been fortunate that our immediate area has seen minimal disruption.
How are the roads to the farm?
The roads to our farm are in great condition, and any damage from the storm has been repaired. The only thing to keep in mind is that I-40 at the NC/TN border is still closed and undergoing repairs, so you may encounter detours if coming from that direction.
How were we affected by Hurricane Helene?
Other than some downed trees on our property, we were incredibly fortunate to have not sustained major damage. The most significant impact for us has been the drop in tourism, as many travelers have stayed away from the area due to storm-related concerns.
Is the drinking water safe?
Yes, our farm uses well water, which is regularly tested for safety. We also have state-of-the-art water filtration systems in place in our Airbnb, so you can rest assured that your water is fresh and clean.
General Travel Questions for Visiting Asheville This Spring and Summer
Is Asheville welcoming visitors right now?
Yes! Almost all of Asheville is open and ready for visitors, including downtown, nearby towns like Weaverville, Leicester, and Black Mountain, and popular attractions like the Biltmore Estate and Omni Grove Park Inn. Some areas, like the River Arts District and Biltmore Village, are still recovering, so check ahead for the latest updates.
Are the main roads to Asheville open?
Yes, Asheville is accessible by car. While some routes have closures due to the storm, alternate paths are available. Be sure to check DriveNC.gov for real-time traffic updates before you hit the road.
Is the Asheville Regional Airport operational?
Yes, the Asheville Regional Airport is open and fully operational. You can fly in as usual—just check with your airline for any specific flight updates. The Asheville Regional Airport is only a 35 minute drive from the farm!
Are water and power services fully restored in Asheville?
Yes! Power and water services are fully restored throughout Asheville, so you can enjoy all the area’s attractions, restaurants, and businesses without any concerns.
What should I be mindful of when traveling in the area?
Stay flexible with your plans, especially if you’re visiting areas still recovering. While most of Asheville is up and running, some areas like the River Arts District, Biltmore Village, Swannanoa, and Marshall are still recovering. Always check for road closures or business hours before heading out.
Is it too soon to visit Asheville?
Not at all! Asheville is welcoming visitors back, and your trip will help support the recovery of local businesses. Come, explore, and be part of our comeback!
How can I be a responsible traveler in Asheville?
A smile, a kind word, and tipping the local businesses are always appreciated. If you want to help more, check out voluntourism opportunities to lend a hand during your visit.
Are the main attractions, shops, and restaurants in Asheville open?
Yes, most of Asheville’s iconic attractions, shops, and restaurants are open and ready for visitors. You’ll find everything from art galleries to breweries and outdoor attractions welcoming you back.
Is the Blue Ridge Parkway open?
Yes, much of the Blue Ridge Parkway is open. Some sections are still closed due to storm damage, so check the ExploreAsheville Parkway Website or National Parks Services for real-time updates before you go.
Ready for Your Asheville Adventure?
Spring and summer in the Blue Ridge Mountains are a time of renewal, and we couldn’t be more excited to welcome you to this beautiful corner of the world. While we’ve faced our challenges, the heart of Asheville and its surrounding communities has only grown stronger. Your visit isn’t just a chance to enjoy the natural beauty and unique charm of the area—it’s also an opportunity to support the recovery and rebuilding of local businesses and the people who rely on them. By coming here, you’re helping breathe life back into a community that’s working together to rebuild and rise stronger than ever. We are so grateful for your support, and we can’t wait to share this special place with you. We hope to see you soon at Durrant Farms Estate in the coming seasons. Book your stay today and be part of our comeback!
