As the President pointed out during his trip to Western North Carolina, Hurricane Helene is still impacting this beautiful area of the Smokies. The fact is that even though roads, businesses and the national parks are open, many tourists are still concerned about visiting beautiful mountain towns like Franklin, N.C.
Without visitors, family-owned small businesses relying on tourism face deep financial problems.
We want you to know that visitors are welcome here. Travelers can help our community. The “off-season” for travel to the Smokies is winter. It’s beautiful, affordable and relaxed. Decompress in Franklin and enjoy a slow, but wonderful pace in the mountains.
Something to consider: because the leaves have fallen, the scenic views from the hiking trails and vacation rentals are even more spectacular. Locals call it the “window”. Without leaves blocking your view, the mountain viewing window gets bigger.
Also, did you know that winter fly fishing is amazing? The streams and rivers are stocked. Come check us out.
Here’s what some of our local business owners say about the importance of tourism after Hurricane Helene, and why we want visitors.
