BURK COUNTY, N.C. — Linville Gorge Wilderness Area trails have reopened, but officials in Burke County warn that visitors should be extra cautious because the landscape has drastically changed after recent weather events, including Hurricane Helene.
Hikers may encounter a substantial amount of downed timber, washed-out paths, landslides, and altered river routes, said officials with the Burke County Emergency Services.
Those conditions complicate navigation while hiking through The Gorge. Expect the terrain to be more challenging and hazardous than before. Take extra precautions like carrying more food and water, officials said.
Response time for rescue operations has “increased considerably” from one hour to three hours, and in extreme cases, up to 24 hours or more.
Wes Taylor said the Burke County Rescue Squad makes 100 rescues each year in the Gorge. Taylor said if something goes wrong, it could take longer for rescuers to get there.
“Getting to someone is hard enough, but then carrying them back uphill out of The Gorge could be a 24-hour process,” Taylor said.
‘It’s both beauty and destruction’
Visitors are advised to plan their outings carefully, inform someone about their plans and expected return time, and carry necessary emergency gear, including navigation tools, first aid kits, and clothing suitable for changing conditions.
On the western side of Linville Gorge, several trails have reopened, including the Pinnacle Trail, which leads to Daffodil Flats—a popular spring destination that attracts thousands of visitors annually.
A couple headed out Thursday afternoon to hike prepared, packing food, water, clothing, and trail maps.
“It’s both beauty and destruction out here,” said hiker Anthony Antonecchia. “It’s a blend of things disturbed and areas that have been devastated.”
“Being prepared for anything,” said hiker Melissa Adamo. “I’ve done a few thousand miles on my feet, so I’ve been a lot of places. So, I’ve learned a lot.”
About half of the trails have reopened.
Clarence Pittman lives nearby and sticks to the gravel road for now.
“The dogs can’t even get through,” Pittman said. " And if the dogs can’t get through, you know the humans can’t get through.”
The U.S. Forest Service said it can only use long saws to clear the trails.
More crews are arriving next month to help with that monumental task.
VIDEO: What Helene’s more than 2,000 landslides can teach us about how and where to rebuild
©2025 Cox Media Group
