Bays Mountain Park temporarily closed due to storm damage

Bays Mountain Park and Planetarium will be temporarily closed this week due to damage from Hurricane Helene. Our target date for reopening is Monday, October 7.

The extent of the damage done to the park by last week’s storm includes:

• Numerous trees down on paths, trails and across the park in general.
• Large trees down in two wolf habitats and most of the fencing in one pen was destroyed.
• A tree penetrated the roof of the Nature Center and caused damage to the balcony.
• Minor damage to the caretaker’s house, its roof, chimney and gutters.
• Power, phone and Internet service out at the park. The goal is to have it restored by mid-week.

Due to the professionalism and dedication of staff, no animals escaped or were harmed by the storm. Staff is continuing to work this week to get the park operational as soon as possible. We appreciate the public’s patience during this challenging time.