DIRECTIONS:
- Traffic Advisory: Expect heavier-than-usual traffic due to construction of a temporary bridge, with completion anticipated around May 2027. We recommend using the alternate route to help avoid delays.
- You can still drive to the Nature Center as normal, turning from Swannanoa River Road onto Azalea Road.Instead of turning right to cross the bridge as usual, continue straight for half a mile. This road is now TWO-WAY all the way to the roundabout. This two-way traffic pattern is new and can be narrow in places, so please use caution and drive carefully.
- At the roundabout, take the first exit. A traffic signal has been installed on either side of the one-way metal bridge.
- After crossing the metal bridge, turn left on Gashes Creek Road and enter the Nature Center’s parking lots.
- Guests will depart from the Nature Center in the same way.
ALTERNATE ROUTE:
To avoid narrow roads, guests can also access the Nature Center by turning onto Azalea Road East off of Tunnel Road (Rt. 70) near Xpertech Car Care.
- Follow Azalea Road East for two miles.
- At the roundabout, take the second exit. A traffic signal has been installed on either side of the one-way metal bridge.
- After crossing the metal bridge, turn left on Gashes Creek Road and enter the Nature Center’s parking lots.
Guests will depart from the Nature Center in the same way.
