FAQs
Was the Lake Lure Flowering Bridge destroyed by Hurricane Helene?
In September 2024, Hurricane Helene forever changed the landscape of our beautiful gardens. About 150 feet of the riverbeds on the West end of the old Bridge were washed away and the bridge sustained unprecedented damage. As a result of the storm, the old Bridge was unsafe for use and it was closed to the public. On August 18, 2025, the demolition process began. The decorative elements of the bridge were saved for use in the new gardens.
Will a new bridge be constructed?
On September 16, 2025, FEMA awarded a Section 406 grant to the Town of Lake Lure for the construction of a replacement pedestrian bridge across the Rocky Broad River. Options are being explored to create a much needed, safe pedestrian connector between Chimney Rock and Lake Lure for the the use of residents and visitors alike. The new bridge will once again tie together our east and west end gardens.
Are visitors allowed since the Hurricane?
Visitors can access the East and West gardens. Parking is very limited. If you visit the Flowering Bridge, please make sure to stay on the walkways. Lake Lure and Chimney Rock Village businesses are open and would love to see you.
Are dogs allowed?
Dogs on a leash are welcome.
How can I donate?
For donations by check – donation forms are at the Kiosk. Send checks to:
Lake Lure Flowering Bridge
PO Box 125
Lake Lure, NC 28746
What are your hours of operation?
The Bridge is open 24 hours a day year-round.
Is parking available?
Parking is very limited. There will be a few parking spaces on the West end next to the new Education Center.
Are there restrooms on the premises?
A portable restroom is available on the property.
How can I become a Bridge volunteer?
We’d love to have you join us, even if you don’t consider yourself a gardener. We need people to weed, mulch, sell plants and merchandise, or simply serve as an ambassador by welcoming visitors to the Bridge. Please complete the Volunteer Application on this website – Volunteer Application
How can I order a Commemorative Brick?
Commemorative bricks line the pathways along the Bridge and can be purchased for $250 at any time to honor or memorialize a loved one, a friend or beloved pet. You can order a commemorative brick on our website at – Commemorative Brick Order Form. New commemorative brick orders will be held in storage until the new gardens have been designed and built.
If you have questions about a brick purchase, contact us online.
Can we donate plants or garden art?
While we are grateful for all offers to help, we are unable to accept donations of plants or garden art at this time. We are working on new garden plans and, as we determine what kind of plants and materials we need, we will communicate that on our social media.
What is the Rainbow Bridge?
The Rainbow Bridge was a place in our gardens where thousands of people attached the collars of their beloved pets who have passed away.
Was the Rainbow Bridge destroyed by Hurricane Helene?
Sadly, the Rainbow Bridge was washed away by the flood waters of Hurricane Helene. Some remnants and collars have been found and are being preserved by the Rainbow Bridge artist, Amy Wald.
Has a new Rainbow Bridge been built?
No, we currently do not have a Rainbow Bridge. A new Rainbow Bridge is scheduled to be built in spring 2026.
Were the collars placed on the Rainbow Bridge recovered?
Some of the collars placed on the Rainbow Bridge have been found and The Rainbow Bridge artist, Amy Wald, has cleaned and stored the collars until a plan is made for the future of the Lake Lure Flowering Bridge.
Was the collar I placed on the Rainbow Bridge recovered?
Photos and descriptions of the recovered Rainbow Bride collars are listed on out website. Recovered collars will be placed on the new Rainbow Bridge that is scheduled to be built in spring 2026.
Is the Rainbow Bridge in the Town of Lake Lure Greenspace maintained by the Lake Lure Flowering Bridge?
No, The Rainbow Bridge in the Town’s Greenspace has no connection to us. That structure was donated to the Town, not to the Lake Lure Flowering Bridge. But we will be building a new Rainbow Bridge in the spring of 2026.
Is there a way to honor my pets since the Rainbow Bridge was destroyed?
If you placed a collar on the Rainbow Bridge before the storm, you may want to order a Rainbow Bridge Certificate. Learn more about Rainbow Bridge Certificates on our website at – Rainbow Bridge Certificates
Or you can order a commemorative brick in honor of your pet on our website at – Commemorative Brick Order Form