Banner Elk Tourism Development Authority (TDA) Jume 7, 2026: The Reopening of Profile Trail on Grandfather Mtn on June 6, 2026.
Happy National Trails Day! Start at the Grandfather Mtn State Park Parking Area and restrooms on NC 105 (across from The Pedalin' Pig). The trail and parking area closed after damages from Helene. The lower trail route by the river remains closed for rebuilding, but the upper alternate route is open. Hike the 3.6-mile Profile Trail with 1,775 feet elevation gain. Many more trail repairs to come, but trail is totally clear to reach Grandfather Trail that goes across the multiple peaks of the famous mountain. GPS: 4198 NC-105, Banner Elk, NC
THANK YOU to the Grandfather Mountain State Park rangers and staff for getting it open sooner than expected. More info on storm damage from the park:
In fall 2024, Hurricane Helene hit western North Carolina and caused extensive damage across the state parks system. At Grandfather Mountain, the Profile Trail sustained significantly greater storm damage than other areas of the park, due to strong prevailing winds that caused extensive tree fall on the northwest side of the mountain. Because of the naturally steep terrain, uprooted trees pulled entire sections of the trail downhill. There was extensive debris and several downed and hazardous trees. In addition, multiple slope failures removed additional portions of the trail. The lower loop of the trail adjacent to the stream sustained severe damage, with slope failures removing large sections of trail. The steep topography then funneled flood-driven debris through the Watauga River corridor, washing out other areas and leaving heavy debris across the route.
Images: Banner Elk Tourism Development Authority (TDA)