Hurricane Helene Update
The Lake Lure Flowering Bridge sustained unprecedented devastation as a result of Hurricane Helene on September 26, 2024. The Bridge itself was structurally damaged and most of the themed gardens were wiped away by the raging waters of the Rocky Broad River. While we all want to see a future where there is a Lake Lure Flowering Bridge, it is too soon to know what that will look like.
We are now in a recovery phase of clearing debris and salvaging surviving plants. We are not rebuilding at this time. Many people have asked how they can help. At present, we cannot allow non-volunteers to help with clearing debris for safety purposes, and we cannot accept donations of garden art or plants. Many also have asked how to donate money to rebuilding efforts. You may donate here on our website. We appreciate all requests to help.
Please continue to check our Facebook page for updates.
Thank you to local artist Bob Graham, owner of the Smoky Mountain Cowboy art gallery in Lake Lure, for these incredible photos…
A Gateway to Somewhere Beautiful
The Lake Lure Flowering Bridge is home to more than 2000 species of plants, lovingly tended by local volunteers. From the Bridge, visitors can look upstream to view the famous Chimney Rock, and downstream where the river flows into Lake Lure surrounded by the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. There is always something to see as the plant and garden decorative displays change with the seasons. Visitors often comment on the unexpected blooms that appear at unusual times due to the isothermal microclimate of Hickory Nut Gorge. Even in the coldest months, festive lighting invites a walk across the Bridge both day and night. Our unique gardens are free and open to the public all year. The vast majority of the gardens are wheelchair accessible.
Our vision for building an onsite Education Center is becoming a reality.
We’re excited to announce that we have officially broken ground on our new Education Center! The building has a small footprint offering huge opportunities. Its design is in keeping with our beautiful mountain surroundings and includes a front porch and comfortable seating. A dedicated indoor space will provide the ability to expand our educational programs and conduct classes year-round, regardless of weather. Parking will be limited, but the Bridge will be open throughout construction. Additional parking is available at the Lake Lure Welcome Center.
THE STORY OF OUR GARDENS
Officially dedicated on October 13, 2013, the Lake Lure Flowering Bridge blooms atop the historic, three-arch Historic Bridge #7 in Lake Lure, NC. Built in 1925, the Bridge carried traffic between Lake Lure and Chimney Rock for 85 years. When it was decommissioned in January 2011, a group of citizens got permission from the North Carolina Department of Transportation to preserve and enhance the structure, forming the nonprofit 501(c)(3) Friends of the Lake Lure Flowering Bridge. Over a two-year period, they sought donations, made sure the structure could sustain the additional weight of stones, dirt, and foot traffic, and with the help of a landscape design firm, created a design for the original gardens and implemented it as funds became available. On April 13, 2013, twelve themed gardens were planted in raised beds across the 155-foot span, including rock and succulent, rose, tropical, whimsical, wildflower and herb gardens. The Lake Lure Flowering Bridge was officially dedicated on October 19, 2013.
Over time, additional gardens have been added on either side of the Bridge, most recently a pollinator, children’s and even a dog garden. Called “A Gateway to Somewhere Beautiful,” our unique park now features 30 gardens — an entire acre of plants — and has become one of the most-visited attractions in Western North Carolina, drawing more than 180,000 visitors a year. It is lovingly maintained by 40 devoted volunteers, some of whom have been involved from the beginning. Garden art and seasonal features created by local artists and volunteer gardeners fill the gardens with whimsy and charm. Since its creation, the Flowering Bridge has been recognized by the National Wildlife Federation as a certified wildlife habitat, and certified and registered by the Monarch Watch as an official Monarch Waystation. It is also a designated public garden along the Rosalynn Carter Butterfly Trail, and its murals have won it a place on the Appalachian Mural Trail.
OUR MISSION STATEMENT
To maintain gardens that are enjoyable, inspirational and used to educate people about gardening and its health and environmental benefits.
Lush, inviting garden spanning a bridge over a popular mountain lake, with plantings, decor, and an audio tour that speak to gardeners, lovers of dogs and children’s lit, and anybody who wants a change of pace from mountain tourist draws.
Such a beautiful and creative way to display nature’s beauty…we loved the little surprises around every corner! Can’t wait to come back and see everything during different seasons. Thank you to all the hard-working volunteers!
Lake Lure Flowering Bridge
3070 Memorial Hwy
PO Box 125
Lake Lure, NC 28746
Lake Lure Flowering Bridge is a volunteer 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
Donations to help preserve and maintain the bridge and gardens are appreciated — and tax-deductible.
