Dear Traveler,

What a spring! The last few months have been unlike any others as we’ve thoughtfully adjusted to a rapidly changing landscape both across the globe and right here in Brevard and Transylvania County.  As we’ve stayed at home and taken care of the people we love, the outside world has blossomed and bloomed. The trees have leafed out in the forests. The rivers and streams that feed our waterfalls have swollen with spring rain.  Life in the natural world has gone right on as planned in all its glorious splendor. 

With the advent of spring and new guidelines for our safety in place, folks are beginning to venture back out into the forests and our local communities. Our parks and forests have broadly reopened. Many local shops and restaurants are open with safety procedures in place. There are visitors on our streets and trails again. 

While we’re happy to see you, we ask that you join us in practicing care and consideration so we all can safely enjoy Transylvania’s remarkable resources. Staying safe, being mindful of guidelines, and leaving no trace will make you a first-class adventurist and the kind of friend we look forward to welcoming back time and time again. 

See you on the trail (at a 6-foot distance),

The Adventurist

Over the last few weeks, Transylvania County’s many natural resources have largely reopened for outdoor recreation. Some areas and amenities, such as bathrooms and visitor’s centers, may still be unavailable. For current status of our forests and wilderness areas, please follow the links below:

If you're considering a visit to Brevard and Transylvania County we encourage you to Explore Responsibly by keeping this information in mind. Also be sure to stay on the move while you are adventuring and seek out uncrowded areas. For a few idea starters check out our blogs on paddling and rock climbing. 

Maintain a 6-foot distance from anyone not in your household.

Don’t congregate in large crowds on or off the trail. If you see that a trailhead or particular outdoor area is crowded, consider exploring a new area.

Bring snacks, water, and first aid. Understand that some facilities, like restrooms, may not be available and cell phone service may be limited.

Avoid hugs, handshakes, and touching your face. Use caution touching surfaces, including door handles, benches, rails and even trees.

Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze Masks are recommended in dense places, including busy trails, parking lots and overlooks.

Explore with caution. Keep to the trails and keep moving.

Practice good waterfall safety by following posted rules. To learn more visit waterfallsafety.com

Wash your hands with soap and water or use hand sanitizer. Wipe down all equipment and gear before and after use.

Practice trail courtesy. Give way to passersby and share your space.

Clean up after yourself. Respect the outdoors as well as wildlife.

Earlier this year the Transylvania Tomorrow Small Business Emergency Relief Fund was created to provide support to local small businesses throughout the pandemic. To date the fund has amassed more the $149,000 in contributions from local organizations, including Transylvania County Tourism, as well as local businesses and individuals. A new flyer and promotional video featuring a fresh take on the song "Tomorrow" from the musical Annie, by local artists Shannon Whitworth and Woody Platt of the Steep Canyon Rangers, were recently released to generate awareness and support for the initiative. Click below to watch:

As the initiative nears the halfway point of its fundraising goal of $300,000 for small businesses, your support is needed now more than ever. Through this effort we can all help create a brighter future for small businesses in Transylvania County and Brevard. We're asking you, our visitors, to provide any help you can to preserve the experience we all know and love. Please consider making a contribution today.

Brought to you by Transylvania County Tourism