On August 22, 2025, the Blue Ridge Parkway reclaims a vital artery of mountain adventure with the completion of the landslide repair at milepost 401.5, near Ferrin Knob Tunnel No. 3. This reopening connects a 38-mile stretch running from milepost 382 at the Folk Art Center near US 70 all the way to milepost 420—just south of the renowned Graveyard Fields. For travelers and adventurers alike, this means uninterrupted access between Asheville and Mount Pisgah, opening gateways to the Mount Pisgah Inn, campground, picnic spots, and numerous hiking trails that thrive in these ancient Appalachian elevations.

The repaired section, critical for restoring access following landslides caused by Hurricane Helene, is a feat considering the rugged terrain and the technical challenges construction crews faced amid short building seasons complicated by winter freezes and rugged mountain slopes. Ferrin Knob Tunnel No. 3 now stands as a testament to engineering resilience, securing safe passage where earth once gave way.

Travelers can now experience seamless road travel from the busy city fringes of Asheville, weaving through forested ridges and historic overlooks to Mount Pisgah’s summit where panoramic views stretch onward. This corridor offers varied adventures; hikers can explore cascading streams, encounter old-growth forests clinging fiercely to steep slopes, and find solitude on trails shadowed by ancient hardwoods.

Though the corridor invites exploration, visitors must stay vigilant. While access is restored, some sections remain under assessment, and trails may still bear scars of recent storms—fallen trees, eroded paths, and washed-out bridges demand caution. The park service urges patience and respect for ongoing closures to ensure everyone’s safety.

Preparation is key: study up on updated maps and road conditions through the National Park Service website. Plan for variable mountain weather and bring sturdy footwear to navigate mixed terrain. The newly accessible corridor promises a raw encounter with the Blue Ridge Mountains, where nature pushes and invites in equal measure, challenging and rewarding with every mile.

Whether you drive the scenic Parkway for its legendary vistas, camp beneath Pisgah’s shadow, or lace boots for a wilderness hike, the restored road at milepost 401.5 opens an essential door to experience one of North Carolina’s most cherished mountain escapes. Adventure is waiting—with a measured edge of preparation and respect for the landscape's fierce character.