video & blog post by… G Social Media
For visitors and locals alike, the message is clear:
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“Book your trip, come here—Western North Carolina is back, stronger, and unforgettable.”
— Governor Josh Stein, speaking at Asheville Regional Airport on July 14, 2025
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🌟 A Restoration Journey Rooted in Community
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Take Mike & Beverly, who moved here from South Florida two decades ago and built High Rock Rentals—a serene cluster of log cabins that quickly became a mountain favorite. After Helene, they were cut off for 10 days. Their rescue story? A team of 15 friends with ATVs, shovels, chainsaws—and a dose of grit—cleared rugged roads until DOT crews followed, clearing up to seven landslides . That grassroots effort led to FEMA and state grants totaling $2 million, breathing life back into their mountain community.
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🌿 Get Out There: Top WNC Experiences
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Catawba Falls: Post-flood renaturalization has exposed new cascades and rejuvenated trails ideal for a refreshing hike.
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French Broad Adventures: Kayak and rafting trips are running strong—perfect for thrill seekers.
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Sandy Bottom Trail Rides: Horseback rides through verdant forest paths, offering peace and perspective.
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Asheville Outdoor Center: Kayaking, paddleboarding & more along the French Broad.
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🍻 Updated Hotspots in Asheville
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Highland Brewing, The Orange Peel, Fleetwoods, Jargon, Biltmore Estate, and Omni Grove Park Inn and many more are all back and thriving. Live music, elevated dining, and signature brews are in full swing.
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Oprah Daily recently praised Asheville’s creative artistry and music scene, calling it a “destination with songs in its soul” and applauding its revival after Helene
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🚗 Blue Ridge Parkway Update
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While the Parkway remains partially closed, over 310 miles have reopened. Ongoing road repairs are funded by a billion-dollar recovery plan—and more opening updates are coming soon.
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🎯 Why It Matters
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Recovery after Helene was more than roadwork and rebuilding—it was community spirit in motion. When leaders, businesses, volunteers, and everyday people rallied together, they created a comeback story worth telling.
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🛎️ Your Next Move
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Be part of the revival:
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Plan your return—stay in those cabins, stroll the Parkway, climb a waterfall, soak in live music.
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Support local—shop, dine, rave, repeat.
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Help us spread the word—share the video, blog, or your own favorite WNC moments.
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West Asheville, Hendersonville, Black Mountain, Fairview, and beyond… we’re up and running. We can’t wait to see you again.
