Blue Ridge Parkway, Grandfather Mountain reopen, with restrictions in place

The Blue Ridge Parkway reopened to traffic on Friday for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic started.

Park rangers reopened parts of the Parkway in both Watauga and Avery counties around 7 a.m., though restrooms and other facilities will remain closed.

“All of a sudden I see, oh the gates are open. Oh baby here we go," visitor Thomas Edgemont said.

>> Have questions about the coronavirus pandemic and its impact on the Carolinas? We have an entire section dedicated to coverage of the outbreak -- CLICK HERE FOR MORE.

That stretch is one of the most popular in the state, winding through the Moses Cone Manor area, Price Park and then across the Linn Cove viaduct near Grandfather Mountain.

Officials plan to monitor crowds this weekend.

The reopening will allow hikers to get out and visit places like Grandfather Mountain. There will still be some restrictions in place, not only along the Parkway but at Grandfather Mountain, where visitor’s temperatures will be checked before being allowed inside.

“I was pleasantly surprised. They’ve done a fantastic job. I don’t think you could be any safer," visitor Charles Page said.

>> We’ll bring you LIVE updates on Channel 9 Eyewitness News. Get extended coverage on the free WSOC Now app on Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV.

Workers will also be disinfecting the handrail on the mountain’s Swinging Bridge every 30 minutes, and visitors will only be allowed to cross in one direction.

Officials will only be allowing 20 people in the park every hour, and that will only be by reservation. Visitors can reserve a date and time of entry online at grandfather.com.

The campgrounds will also be off-limits, but visitors will have access to all the trailheads.

NC mountain state parks readying for return of larger crowds NC mountain state parks readying for return of larger crowds

© 2020 Cox Media Group