Follow along for weekly updates on the park’s reopening progress, including behind the scenes updates from our team as we get the park ready for you to visit! For more info, visit our Park Access FAQ.

Construction begins on a Temporary Bridge Access

This week, the North Carolina Department of Transportation began construction of a temporary bridge that once completed will allow for public access into the park again. Wright Brothers Construction has been awarded the contract to work on the temporary bridge. The bridge is located just west of the old truss bridge that previously served Southside Drive.

NCDOT also determined the future placement for a permanent bridge into the park. The permanent bridge will be part of a larger infrastructure project reconnecting Hickory Nut Gorge, with construction set to begin in 2026.

As a reminder, the park and Chimney Rock Village are still closed to the public.

Read more in NCDOT’s official release.