ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Richmond Hill Park will begin a phased reopening Saturday following extensive damage from Tropical Storm Helene and other severe weather events, city officials said.
Some hiking trails are scheduled to reopen to the public on Oct. 11, with regular park hours from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Pisgah Area SORBA, a longtime partner in trail maintenance and expansion, continues to assist with rebuilding efforts.
The park’s disc golf course is expected to reopen the following week. Asheville Parks & Recreation officials said 16 of the 18 holes will be accessible, with assistance from the Western North Carolina Disc Golf Association for basket installation. Holes 2 and 9 remain closed because of severe tee pad damage.
“Reopening of trails at Richmond Hill Park is a significant step forward for our community,” APR Director D. Tyrell McGirt said in a news release. “This phased approach allows us to restore access to this treasured green space for the first time in many months. We are deeply grateful to our dedicated APR team and volunteer partners like WNCDGA and Pisgah Area SORBA for their work to make this possible.”
Safety and remaining closures
Officials stressed that hazards remain and trail conditions have changed because of the storms. Visitors enter at their own risk and must follow temporary signage and fencing.
Areas still closed include:
- Park restrooms: Closed for septic repairs; a temporary accessible restroom is available near the parking lot.
- Brown Trail: Partially closed because of bridge damage and hazardous ravine crossings.
- Bike skills course: Intermediate area partially closed with snow fencing and signage.
- Disc golf holes: Up to four holes remain closed because of unsafe tee pad conditions.
- Creek and stream crossings: Bridges over Smith Creek were washed out or severely damaged; only wet crossings are available.
“While we celebrate the beginning of a phased reopening operation, we must stress that the recovery process is ongoing,” McGirt said in the news release. “We urge all visitors to exercise caution, adhere to posted signs and respect closed areas. This reopening reflects the city’s commitment to rebuilding places we love in stronger and smarter ways.”
The city continues to remove damaged infrastructure, including bridges on the red, purple and brown trails. Rentals and events at the park remain suspended.
While most city parks have reopened, Azalea, French Broad River and Recreation parks remain fully closed. Officials advise residents to stay away from closed or partially closed park areas. For updated information, click here.
