The story of the Lake Lure Flowering Bridge in Lake Lure, North Carolina, is one of remarkable resilience, strengthened by community generosity and unwavering support. After Hurricane Helene devastated the iconic flowering bridge and surrounding gardens—washing away the pedestrian walkway and submerging the garden beds—Board members and volunteers took time to grieve the loss of the beloved space.
When they were ready, their passion returned. They began to see the damaged landscape as a blank canvas and as an opportunity to rebuild, reimagine, and create something new. A five-person garden design task force was formed to assess the site and plan 17 new display gardens.
Generous partners stepped forward to help, including Paul Zimmerman of Paul Zimmerman Roses Consulting & Design, guiding the garden redesign. Southern Living Plant Collections has provided media support and donated plants. Local nurseries have also contributed additional plant material.
The outpouring of support has extended far beyond the region, with both local and national donors contributing funds and both volunteers from the community and outside of the community offering their time to help restore the grounds.
Among the emerging features is a special butterfly-shaped display garden, created with bricks and stones that outline its wings and is filled with vibrant plants donated by a local nursery and is the anchor feature for the Butterfly Haven garden.
In even more uplifting news, the team plans to rebuild the cherished rainbow bridge, bringing this beloved community landmark back to life. Our best wishes go out to the entire Lake Lure Flowering Bridge team. We’re excited to see the transformation continue and to follow the growth of the new display gardens through future updates and photos.
Visit Lake Lure Flowering Bridge’s Facebook Page for updates.
Written by Lisa M. Comento
