OLD FORT, N.C. — As the morning mist clears from the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains, the sound of joyous laughter fills the air as helmet-wearing riders glide past the iconic 30-foot granite Arrowhead Monument in Old Fort. This picturesque scenery marks the beginning of FloatLife Fest, a gathering that draws over 400 people united by their love for motorized Onewheel boards. Held in mid-September, the festival adds a much-needed economic boost to the town, which is still grappling with the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, which devastated the area a year prior.
Jess Jones, a marine biologist visiting from Edinburgh, expressed delight over the warm reception from locals: “We should definitely come back again,” she noted. Despite the lingering scars from the hurricane, the festival exemplifies the beauty of the region and the resilience of its people.
The storm inflicted heavy damage on Old Fort, leaving many businesses and homes uninhabitable, yet community leaders are determined to rebuild. Business owners like Chad Schoenauer, who runs a local bike shop, are hopeful for a strong fall tourist season despite the town's decreased visibility as a tourist destination.
Hurricane Helene: A Catalyst for Change
Hurricane Helene interrupted a hopeful transition for Old Fort into an outdoor tourism hub following significant job losses from Ethan Allen's factory closure. Local leaders rallied to harness the scenic landscape for hiking, mountain biking, and other outdoor activities.
Justyn Thompson, founder of FloatLife, remarked on the unparalleled quality of local trails, indicating that their appeal could lead to economic revitalization. In collaboration with the G5 Trail Collective, new multi-purpose trails were set to enhance outdoor experiences, but Helene’s destructive forces set back progress by washing away vital trails and damaging local businesses.
Community efforts continue as business owners like Schoenauer work to recover from losses of up to $150,000. The town has managed to reopen many other local shops, but foot traffic remains down due to lingering perceptions of devastation caused by the hurricane.
Navigating Recovery and Rebuilding
Although tourist spending has declined in areas impacted by Helene, initiatives to restore trails and open new businesses reflect an unwavering commitment to recovery. The Blue Ridge Parkway, a significant tourist attraction, suffers from closures, further complicating the town's recovery.
Despite the ongoing challenges, the spirit of Old Fort shines brightly during FloatLife Fest, reminding attendees and locals alike of the rich culture and community resilience. McKissick, a developer in the area noted that they are making changes to better handle future flood events, signaling a proactive approach toward sustainability.
As Old Fort continues on its journey of recovery and transformation, the enduring support of visitors and the concerted effort of local leaders pave the way toward revitalization, highlighting the importance of community unity during challenging times.
