Supporting Western North Carolina After Hurricane Helene
I originally sat down to publish a blog on the magical synchronous fireflies in the Great Smoky Mountains and Congaree National Park (which I will), but my heart has been heavy since Hurricane Helene devastated communities not far from the Smokies. Like many - whether never been in the area before, drove through nearby towns, spent a day in Asheville, or knowing someone who knows someone there - we are all rapidly thinking of ways to help.
As a Travel Advisor, one of the most impactful ways I can suggest is through tourism. These local towns filled with unique businesses and vibrant people depend on tourism to thrive. Tourism is more than just visiting – it’s supporting local shops, restaurants and family-owned options that rely on visitors to survive. It drives revenue that helps sustain them, and right now, they need that support more than ever.
I spent two weeks in college at the Great Smoky Mountains, not just learning about nature, but understanding how tourism growth in surrounding areas like Gatlinburg is essential to their livelihood. Many nearby towns that weren't directly hit by the hurricane are still feeling the effects—economically and emotionally. The fall foliage season, one of the busiest times of the year, has arrived, but the loss of visitors could deal another blow to these areas.
If you had plans to visit western North Carolina, I urge you not to cancel. While we can’t visit the hardest-hit regions, we can still help by showing up in neighboring towns and supporting local businesses. Tourism is a powerful tool for recovery. Let’s work together to find a nearby, open area that could use your support.
Traveling to these areas won't solve all their problems, but it will be a step toward rebuilding. Let’s not underestimate how much tourism can help communities heal. Every visit can have a huge impact.
Let’s work together to support these communities: kait@agencychic.com
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