The City of Asheville announced today that Richmond Hill Park will begin a phased reopening following extensive damage and debris removal operations from Tropical Storm Helene and other severe weather events. A state contractor recently completed chipping and removal of large vegetative storm debris and partner organizations listed below are now collecting and clearing remaining storm debris that was not eligible for removal by the contractor.
Some of the park’s hiking trails are scheduled to reopen to the public on Saturday, October 11, with normal park hours from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Pisgah Area SORBA has maintained and expanded the trail network at the park for several years and continues to be instrumental as trail rebuilding continues.
The popular disc golf course is tentatively scheduled to reopen the following week. Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR) anticipates opening 16 of the 18 holes, pending assistance from Western North Carolina Disc Golf Association (WNCDGA) with basket installation. Holes 2 and 9 remain closed until severe tee pad damage can be repaired.
“Reopening of trails at Richmond Hill Park is a significant step forward for our community,” according to APR Director D. Tyrell McGirt. “We know how much this park means to Asheville residents, and this phased approach allows us to restore access to this treasured green space for the first time in many months. We are deeply grateful to our dedicated APR team and volunteer partners like WNCDGA and Pisgah Area SORBA for their work to make this possible.”
Important Safety & Closure Information
This is a partial reopening, and community members are strongly advised that numerous hazards remain and trail conditions have changed due to the storm. Visitors enter and use the park at their own risk and must observe all temporary signage and fencing.
Areas that remain closed as crews continue work to reopen them:
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- Park Restrooms: Closed due to necessary septic field repairs. A temporary, accessible portable restroom will be available near the parking lot.
- Brown Trail: Partially closed due to bridge damage and hazardous ravine overflow crossings.
- Bike Skills Course: The intermediate area is partially closed with temporary snow fencing and signage in place.
- Damaged Disc Golf Holes: Up to four holes remain closed due to unsafe tee pad conditions.
- Creek and Stream Crossings: All bridges crossing Smith Creek were washed out or severely damaged. Only wet crossings are available at this time.
“While we celebrate the beginning of a phased reopening operation, we must stress that the recovery process is ongoing,” says McGirt. “The unprecedented and extensive storm damage means hazards remain, and we urge all visitors to exercise extreme caution, adhere to posted signs, and respect the closed areas. This milestone reflects the City’s commitment to rebuilding places we love in stronger and smarter ways so we can enjoy them for generations to come.”
The City continues to coordinate the removal of remaining damaged infrastructure, including several damaged bridge sections on the red, purple, and brown trails. The park remains closed for rentals and events at this time.
While most public parks have reopened, Azalea, French Broad River, and Recreation parks remain fully closed. Community members should stay away from all park areas that are closed or partially closed. Visit ashevillenc.gov/parks for the most up-to-date list of open parks and recreation facilities.
For more on the history of the park, check out Park Views: Richmond Hill Park.
Asheville Parks & Recreation: Explore, Connect, Discover!
Driven by the promise that Asheville is a better and safer place when everyone from infants to retirees has the opportunity to be supported, healthy, and successful, Asheville Parks & Recreation manages a unique collection of public parks, playgrounds, and open spaces throughout the city in a system that also includes full-complex recreation centers, swimming pools, Riverside Cemetery, sports fields and courts, and community centers that offer a variety of wellness-, education-, and culture-related programs for Ashevillians of all ages. With 10 miles of paved greenways and numerous natural surface trails, its complete portfolio acts as the foundation of a vibrant hub for the people of Asheville to connect with their neighbors and explore the natural beauty of a livable and walkable city.
For latest updates, sign up for Asheville Parks & Recreation’s monthly newsletter, follow the department on Facebook (@aprca) and Instagram (@ashevilleparksandrecreation), or visit www.ashevillenc.gov/parks.