Biltmore Estate sets reopening date, even as parts remain closed due to Helene damage

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Biltmore Estate is set to reopen after damage from Tropical Storm Helene closed America’s largest home, estate officials said Saturday.

Crews are still clearing debris from woods on the property, and some roads remain under repair, officials said. Trails and the Outdoor Adventure Center are closed until further notice. Still, the estate is back in shape enough to welcome guests again beginning Saturday, Nov. 2, the start of its holiday season, Christmas at Biltmore.

The estate is one of the most popular tourist attractions in North Carolina.

Helene, a former Category 5 hurricane, killed at least 95 people in the state and caused record flooding and damage in western North Carolina after arriving in the state on Sept. 28. Entire mountain communities vanished in swollen, raging rivers. At least 90 people remain missing, emergency officials said.

“For over 125 years, Biltmore has witnessed the resilience and community spirit of the Asheville area,” according to an estate news release. “The response to Helene has resulted in signs that recovery is underway across the region.”

Biltmore will be fully decorated for the Christmas season, and estate attractions and restaurants will be open. Estate lodging properties will welcome overnight guests.

Many businesses and roads in the Asheville area have reopened, estate officials said, while some areas are still working to recover. So visitors might have to take alternate routes to Biltmore.

Restoring ‘the vibrancy’ of Asheville

Biltmore Estate launched a $2 million “Biltmore Relief Fund for WNC” to support employees in crisis and area non-profits.

“We are incredibly grateful for the outpouring of support for our community and the determination of our first responders, utility workers and community volunteers,” Biltmore President and CEO Bill Cecil Jr. said in a statement.

“As recovery unfolds, welcoming guests back to Biltmore not only means we can open, but also brings critical support to our region’s economy to aid area employees, local businesses and friends,” he said. “Together, we can help restore the vibrancy of Asheville and its surrounding areas.”