Roan Mountain Recreation Area to reopen Friday

The Roan Mountain Recreation Area in the Pisgah National Forest is set to reopen on Friday, June 20th. The area’s reopening coincides with the annual Rhododendron Festivals scheduled for June 20-22 in Bakersville, North Carolina, and Roan Mountain, Tennessee. In September, Helene brought 100 mph winds to the area, leaving extensive damage and forcing the area to close. Post-Helene repairs and improvements have included paving the garden’s parking lot, replacing culverts, and re-decking scenic overlooks. When the site reopens, work will continue Mondays through Thursdays until the end of July. All visitors are asked to use caution near active debris removal sites. Additional paving on the road to Roan Mountain is expected later this summer.