The WNC Nature Center will reopen to the public on Monday, March 17, five and a half months after closing due to the devastating effects of Tropical Storm Helene, which caused significant flooding, destroying roads and the main bridge to the Nature Center.
“After witnessing the devastation caused by the flooding of the Swannanoa River, we thought it would be at least a year until we could safely reopen,” recalls Nature Center Director Chris Gentile. “Thanks to the steadfast work of our City workers, the NC DOT, and a myriad of community partners, we are ready to welcome guests back.”
Due to the damage Tropical Storm Helene caused to Gashes Creek Bridge, we want to share new access routes for visitors.
Access to the Nature Center
Directions to the WNC Nature Center (75 Gashes Creek Road, Asheville, NC 28805)
- Drive to the Nature Center as normal, turning from Swannanoa River Road onto
Azalea Road. - Instead of turning right to cross the bridge as usual, continue straight for half a mile.
This road is now two-way all the way to the roundabout. This two-way traffic pattern
is new and can be narrow in places, so please use caution and drive carefully. - At the roundabout, take the first right. A traffic signal has been installed on either side
of the one-way metal bridge. After crossing the metal bridge, turn left on Gashes Creek Road and enter the Nature
Center’s parking lots. - Guests will depart from the Nature Center in the same way.
Taking advantage of our unexpected temporary closure
There is plenty to look forward to once the Nature Center reopens next month. During the closure, significant progress was made on the construction of the Gateway to the Southern Appalachians, and by summer, guests should be able to enjoy a butterfly garden, renovated barn and farmyard space, and an expanded Gift Shop.
Our partners, Friends of the WNC Nature Center, have also been hard at work since the storm. They have leaned into their mission of connecting people to the wildlife of the Southern Appalachians. From November 2024 to February 2025, their two-person Outreach Education team traveled on thousand miles across the region, providing affordable, hands-on wildlife experiences to 1,200 individuals in schools, libraries, and community centers. “Helene left a lasting impact on Western North Carolina, damaging parks, trails, and waterways that serve as vital outdoor learning spaces for families,” says Friends Executive Director Kate Frost. “Many were uncertain about where it was safe to explore and engage with nature. Our Outreach Educators worked tirelessly to connect our communities with nature through special animal interactions and educational moments during this time.”
Reopening and celebrating 100 years
Upon reopening on March 17, the WNC Nature Center will be open seven days a week from 10am until 4:30pm with last admission at 3:30pm. Beginning this year, the Ticket Office will also be cashless. Tickets are available for purchase in advance online or in person using credit/debit and prepaid cash cards.
This year the Nature Center celebrates its 100th anniversary as a zoo. Since it opened as Recreation Park Zoo in May 1925, the WNC Nature Center has undergone a metamorphosis, evolving from a collection of exotic animals – including elephants, lions, monkeys, zebras, and camels – to animals native to the Southern Appalachians from the past to the present.
See more information about the WNC Nature Center’s 100th anniversary celebration, where visitors will find a centennial timeline and historic photos from throughout the years.
About the WNC Nature Center
Established as Recreation Park Zoo in 1925 and later re-visioned in 1977, the Western North Carolina Nature Center connects people of all ages with the plants and animals of the Southern Appalachians. Asheville’s Wildlife Park is located on 42 acres and is home to more than 60 species of animals, including red panda, river otter, black bear, red wolves, and cougar. The Nature Center is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums – the gold standard for animal care and welfare.
Support this great community asset and find out about becoming a member.
For more informationabout the WNC Nature Center , please visit the website.