A particularly cherished feature was the Rainbow Bridge, a place where people grieving the loss of a pet could attach their collars as a memorial. The Rainbow Bridge was a real-life tribute to a popular poem about pets crossing a bridge to a peaceful place, and for many, it provided immense comfort. This symbolic and sentimental value is what made the loss of the bridge so heartbreaking for the community and its many visitors.
That spirit was tested in September 2024, when Hurricane Helene's floodwaters tore through the Rocky Broad River, irrevocably damaging the historic structure. Demolition of the old bridge began on August 18, 2025, but the volunteers who have given so much of themselves to the bridge are not giving up. They have salvaged as much as they can, from antique lamp posts and an eagle statue to the commemorative bricks that lined the walkways. These items, along with the plants that were rescued from the gardens, will be incorporated into new gardens and a new future.
The message is clear from the organization's social media: "We are here to stay!" Their plans include creating new gardens on the property and opening a new Education Center, which will allow them to continue offering classes and a "Living Classroom" for the community. The commemorative bricks that lined the pathways and held so many memories are being carefully recovered and stored for a new home.
How You Can Help
The Lake Lure Flowering Bridge is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and its mission is carried forward entirely by the support of the community. Here are some of the ways you can help them rebuild and continue their work:
Make a Direct Donation: The most direct way to help is by making a one-time or monthly donation through their official website. All donations are tax-deductible and go directly to the organization's recovery and rebuilding efforts.
"Say It With a Brick": The commemorative brick program has been a long-standing way for people to honor loved ones, friends, or pets. While the new gardens are still in the design phase, you can still purchase a commemorative brick. These new bricks will be held in storage and placed in the new gardens once they are built.
Volunteer Your Time: The organization welcomes volunteers, and not just those with a green thumb! They need help with everything from gardening and maintenance to retail sales and serving as an ambassador for visitors. You can find a volunteer application on their website.
WNCTimes
Image: Lake Lure Flowering Bridge