"We are forming plans and doing preparatory work right now toward opening the forests in a way that promotes safe behavior," said Bruce Macdonald, with DuPont Forest. "The importance of our parks and trails to North Carolinians has become quite apparent during this pandemic," said State Parks Director Dwayne Patterson. Minimal services, facilities and assistance will be available for visitors. Signs around the trails will let you know if anything is closed due to weather, downed trees, or maintenance. Come prepared to share trails with all types of users. Other closed areas are: High Falls Access Area. All picnic areas, swimming areas and waterfronts will remain closed. The Division of Parks and Recreation is working with state and local public health authorities to closely monitor the COVID-19 pandemic and use a phased, collaborative approach to increase access to North Carolina State Parks in a systematic manner. DuPont State Recreational Forest is open daily, 5 a.m. until 10 p.m. Caesar's Head State Park, SC. DuPont won't reopen yet — but will soon. Trail courtesy is critical during this time to ensure safe access for everyone. Get on Dupont Road and head toward the park. Read or Share this story: https://www.citizen-times.com/story/news/local/2020/05/13/dupont-forest-partially-reopens-may-14-many-popular-spots-stay-closed/5187737002/, (Photo: Karen Chávez/KChavez@CitizenTimes.com), Boyle column: Seriously, 'Let's be careful out there', Coronavirus: Many state parks partially reopen May 9; Pisgah forest, Gorges on May 13, Coronavirus: Much of Blue Ridge Parkway in WNC to reopen May 15, small section May 9, Word from the Smokies: New bee discovered after fire, Blue Ridge Parkway car accident kills woman, Asheville School responds to lawsuit claiming sexual abuse by teachers. You will need to register before adding a comment. Most of the trail system is open, and visitors should come prepared to access trails and to keep moving. The forest was used to shoot scenes from the 19… In 2017, the DuPont Corporation donated to the state a 476-acre inholding that was the site of its industrial plant—once a “hole” in the center of the state forest. (Photo: Karen Chávez/KChavez@CitizenTimes.com). Trails will reopen, but gathering areas will remain closed. Dupont State Forest Office Currently Open. base of High Falls. Some access areas may be closed, so visitors should check park webpages for details. Physical: 37 North Broad St.Mailing: P.O. Visitor behavior will be a key factor for providing continued public access and preventing additional closures during this period of phased reopening, the N.C. Forest Service said. “DuPont State Recreational Forest is an incredible natural resource that we are fortunate as a state to have,” said N.C. Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler. WHEN TO VISIT: Because of the ease of access to waterfalls, DuPont State Forest is a very popular place to visit. With over 10,000 acres and 86 miles of trails, DuPont State Forest has become one of the most popular places to go hiking near Asheville, especially for its waterfalls that are among the best in North Carolina. The buildings will still be closed. Like many other public lands in Western North Carolina, DuPont Forest got hammered with visitors over the weekend. DuPont State Recreational Forest is temporarily closed effective March 24, 2020. Come stay with us and enjoy the unique experience of staying in a yurt on a glampground that has amazing views, ice cream on the property, and easy access to local forests, waterfalls, and other treasures. “I am proud this new tract will add to the N.C. Forest Service’s continued efforts to protect and improve renewable and valuable natural resources, including critical headwaters. DuPont State Recreational Forest is open daily, 5 a.m. until 10 p.m. The Citizen Times is providing this story for free to readers because of the need for information about the coronavirus. HOURS: DuPont State Forest is open 7 days a week from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. Visitors seek out this natural wonder for its waterfalls, native fauna, camping, and recreational opportunities. In 2011, DuPont State Forest was redesignated as a State Recreational Forest by the North Carolina General Assembly, to be managed primarily for natural resource preservation, scenic enjoyment and recreational purposes, including horseback riding, hiking, bicycling, hunting and fishing. N.C. Forest Service officials said visitors should expect crowding and limited parking. In the 1990s, DuPont Forest was sold to the State of North Carolina, and as DuPont has completed cleanup of various areas, those areas have been made open to the public as a part of the 10,000+ acre DuPont State Forest. This is a test to see whether we can improve the experience for you. DuPont State Recreational Forest: Unbelievable waterfalls and great open hiking trails - See 740 traveler reviews, 991 candid photos, and great deals for Cedar Mountain, NC, at Tripadvisor. Boyle column: Church spread COVID for Christmas? Address: Pisgah Forest, NC 28768, USA, United States; Tags: Park; Contribute; Dupont State Forest Office Map. Friends of DuPont Forest is a membership organization dedicated to the preservation of DuPont State Recreational Forest, home of more than 10,000 acres of forest, trails, and waterfalls between Hendersonville and Brevard, North Carolina. 5-22-19 - DuPont State Recreational Forest is a beautiful 10,000+ acre tract of land between Brevard and Hendersonville. With nearly 100 miles of trails and a rare taste of eastern slickrock riding, spread over 10,000 acres of forest, it's no wonder so many mountain bikers make North Carolina their home. The forest was established in 1996 following the generous sale of the land from the Dupont Corporation. Campgrounds, picnic shelters, swim areas, playgrounds, visitor centers and other common gathering areas will remain closed during this phase. Trail courtesy is critical during this time to ensure safe access for everyone. DuPont State Recreational Forest, Cedar Mountain: Address, Phone Number, DuPont State Recreational Forest Reviews: ... the parking lots were all full causing traffic to simply circle around waiting for an open spot and very crowded trails near Triple Falls and High Falls. DuPont State Recreational Forest is a highly trafficked public land with approximately 800,000 visitors annually. A link has been sent to your friend's email address. Following guidance from the Governor's office and the Department of Health and Human Services, North Carolina's state parks will increase recreational access and services beginning May 9. DuPont State Recreational Forest . Cleaning procedures effective for COVID-19 disinfection are established and staff are trained to disinfect restrooms and high-touch areas. It is situated on a plateau of the Little River valley , with waterfalls and rolling land bordered by moderately steep hills and mountains. Most of the trail system is open, and visitors should come prepared to access trails and to keep moving. You will see a parking area on the right. "We will be putting out more information on this soon.". Beginning Saturday, 29 state parks that were closed will reopen including most roads, trails, restrooms and some boat ramps. © 2020 www.citizen-times.com. All picnic areas, swimming areas and waterfronts will remain closed. Trail courtesy is critical during this time to ensure safe access for everyone. Locations were filmed only 6 miles away from the campground. Hooker Falls Access Area. Enable Map. DuPont State Recreational Forest and Holmes Educational State Forest will not be reopening this weekend. DuPont State Recreational Forest is open daily, 5 a.m. until 10 p.m. The name of the road will change to Staton Road. Some locations may … Featuring an array of stunning destination features such as the mighty waterfalls of the Little River, DuPont State Recreational Forest, or DSRF, has quickly become one of the most popular recreation areas in the Mountains since its opening in the mid 1990's. Portions of the forest formerly contained a manufacturing facility for the production of X-ray film. Following guidance from the Governor's office and the Department of Health and Human Services, North Carolina 's state parks will increase recreational access and services beginning May 9. Park staff have Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to reduce the spread risk of COVID-19 as they interact with the public and clean restrooms and other areas. More: Boyle column: Seriously, 'Let's be careful out there', More: Coronavirus: Many state parks partially reopen May 9; Pisgah forest, Gorges on May 13, More: Coronavirus: Much of Blue Ridge Parkway in WNC to reopen May 15, small section May 9. DuPont State Recreational Forest, commonly known as DuPont Forest, is a 12,500-acre (51 km ) state forest, located in Henderson and Transylvania counties of North Carolina. UPDATE: As of 8 a.m. Feb. 28, all trails at DuPont State Recreational Forest are open, said forest spokesman Bruce MacDonald. Come prepared to share trails with all types of users. Dupont State Forest Office Reviews & Ratings. A return to full operations will occur in phases. Parking is limited to Fawn Lake Access Area, Guion Farm Access Area and Corn Mill Shoals Access Area. Park superintendents have examined each facility function and service provided to ensure those operations comply with public health guidance. Adjacent tracts have since been purchased and added to the state forest. How to get there: This should look familiar to you: Using your GPS device or maps, search for Dupont State Forest or look for the intersection of Crab Creek Road and Dupont Road. We encourage you to further support local journalism by subscribing. As we balance the high visitation we expect with our responsibility to protect park staff and natural resources, we ask that everyone be respectful of park staff, other visitors, and the parks' natural areas.". Dupont State Recreational Forest Overview. This three-mile hike to three waterfalls is the most popular waterfall hike near Asheville and our favorite. DuPont offers everything from gentle forest roads to exciting single tracks, with an impressive variety of scenic attractions located only minutes apart. DuPont State Recreational Forest is open daily, 5 a.m. until 10 p.m. Box 32Brevard, NC 28712Ph: (828) 883-8156, Powered by ROAR Online Publication Software from Lions Light Corporation DuPont State Recreational Forest PO Box 300 Cedar Mountain, NC 28718-0300 Voice: 828-877-6527 Fax: 828-862-8531 dupontsf.ncfs@ncagr.gov Roy … Since DuPont State Recreational Forest was saved from real estate development, its 10,000 acres and 86 miles of trails have become a favorite playland for exploring the great outdoors. DuPont Forest is accessible all year and is open from 5 AM to 10 PM. Typed comments will be lost if you are not logged in. Wife and I visited Dupont Forest on our recent Anniversary trip. DuPont State Recreational Forest is open daily, 5 a.m. until 10 p.m. The Hunger Games The 2012 motion picture was filmed at various locations in the DuPont State Recreational Forest, including Hooker Falls & Triple Falls. UPDATE for Feb. 14: All trails at DuPont State Recreational Forest will be open, effective at 5 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14, according to DuPont recreation specialist Mary Smith. For more Covid-19 information, consult the DHHS website at http://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/public-health/covid19/covid-19-guidance#phase-1-easing-of-restrictions. Please be polite. DuPont State Forest is a 10,473-acre recreational area in the Blue Ridge Mountains in southwestern North Carolina that began as a tract ceded to the state by Dupont Corporation. For the most up to date information about facility openings, service hours, and access, visit the Division of Parks and Recreation's website at http://www.ncparks.gov/open. There were too many people unwilling to follow the social distancing guidelines putting the health of our community at risk. DuPont State Recreational Forest will begin the first phase of its reopening plan Thursday. On the weekends, parking areas fill up fast and many people are on the trails. DuPont State Recreational Forest is open daily, 5 a.m. until 10 p.m. The trail system consists of 80 miles of trails and roads. © Copyright 2020, http://www.ncdhhs.gov/divisions/public-health/covid19/covid-19-guidance#phase-1-easing-of-restrictions, New Mask Mandate In Place – Transylvania County, NC, Public Health: Another County Resident Dies Due To COVID-19, Public To Be Required To Stay At Home From 10 p.m. To 5 a.m. Beginning Friday, Health Department Receives Guidance On Quarantine Times, Cooper's Order Tightens Mask Requirements. This sign at Triple Falls in DuPont State Recreational Forest is pretty clear. If you see comments in violation of our community guidelines, please report them. However, as you’ll see, many folks also come here for … Most of the trail system is open, and visitors should come prepared to access trails and to keep moving. Most of the trail system is open, and visitors should come prepared to access trails and to keep moving. The name originates from the fact that the DuPontcompany arranged the sale of the original tract to the state. Come prepared to share trails with all types of users. DuPont State Forest is universally recognized as one of the best mountain biking destinations in the southeast. To ensure health and safety, park visitors should follow the "Three W's" as outlined by the N.C. Dept. Let friends in your social network know what you are reading about. A link has been posted to your Facebook feed. You do not need a Facebook profile to participate. Fired Buncombe officer, deputies punched, tased family: federal suit, Mission Hospital bans most visitors amid COVID surge, Your California Privacy Rights/Privacy Policy. DuPont State Forest is fast becoming one of the leading mountain bike destinations in Western North Carolina with 80 miles of trails open to both equestrians and mountain bikers. Welcome to our new and improved comments, which are for subscribers only. The forest is presently open … Bring your family, pups, and bikes, because you are sure to find a family-fun adventure with Dupont … The forest opens to the public at 5 a.m. Holmes Educational State Forest opens to the public at 9 a.m. It's OK to disagree with someone's ideas, but personal attacks, insults, threats, hate speech, advocating violence and other violations can result in a ban. DuPont State Forest - The forest encompasses more than 10,000 acres in Henderson and Transylvania counties. Most of the trail system is open, and visitors should come prepared to access trails and to keep moving. To find out more about Facebook commenting please read the Conversation Guidelines and FAQs. Visitors should also follow local health orders, maintain social distancing, bring hand sanitizer and reusable water bottles, avoid high-risk activities that could lead to calling first responders who are needed elsewhere during the pandemic, and practice Leave No Trace principles. DuPont State Recreational Forest won't open the weekend of May 9, according to communications director Bruce MacDonald. The Arboretum is reopening its trails on Saturday, as well, but limiting capacity to 50 percent. The current plan calls for reopening campgrounds in the second phase, and the third and final phase will include opening common areas and resuming educational activities and other programming. of Health and Human Services – wear a mask or cloth face covering; wait in line at least 6 feet away from others and wash hands frequently. Most of the trail system is open, and visitors should come prepared to access trails and to keep moving. Rate this attraction Submit. Write a Review. This area is one of the most popular near Asheville and Hendersonville for horseback riding, waterfall trail hiking, mountain biking, and picnics. Most trails and areas are now open. They're still ironing out essential safety details — like how bathrooms will be cleaned — and won't be ready in time to reopen with many state parks on May 9. UPDATED: State Parks To Reopen Saturday, DuPont Forest To Remain Closed. "While we look forward to welcoming visitors back to the parks that have been closed, we are approaching this phased reopening with safety in mind. DuPont is in the process of cleaning up contamination on the site, which is not currently open to the public . Lake Imaging Access Area Park staff ask that visitors check the park webpage for detailed information before their visit rather than calling the park office. DuPont State Recreational Forest is open daily, 5 a.m. until 10 p.m. There are 6 listed waterfalls and miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Spanning over 10,000 acres of rolling hills and rocky crags between Brevard and Hendersonville, NC, Dupont State Recreational Forest houses some of Transylvania County’s most exciting climbing, biking and hiking opportunities. Most of the trail system is open, and visitors should come prepared to access trails and to keep moving. Jason Guidry, DuPont State Recreational Forest Supervisor, said that even though DuPont was closed from mid-March to mid-May due to Gov. All trails are multiple use and open to mountain biking, hiking and equestrian use. DSRF is the only State Recreational Forest in North Carolina. High Falls has been known for years to local residents. Just 20 minutes from downtown Brevard, this is a great place to hone your MTB skills before venturing into the more technically-challengin… All rights reserved. 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