Canton is a N.C. river town recovering after Hurricane Helene
The small mountain town of Canton, just outside Asheville in western North Carolina, is adjusting to a pair of community-altering events. On the heels of losing its largest employer, a paper mill, this community of 4,400 was slammed in 2024 by Hurricane Helene.
The paper mill once stood proudly on the banks of the Pigeon River, which flooded in Helene’s wake. “The new owners of the property are demolishing it as we speak,” says Sam Dunbar, director of parks and recreation. “And we’re uncertain what that property is going to look like.”
The town is named after Canton, Ohio, the source of the steel used to build the Pigeon River Bridge. That historic landmark is an iconic feature of the river that lives at the heart of this community. Nearly a year after the hurricane, the area is slowly recovering. “We’re doing the best we can,” Dunbar says. “Homes are being repaired, and businesses are coming back, if they are not already back. There was a lot of devastation, and a lot of people can’t go back to their homes, but we’re looking forward. Our future is uncertain, but I think it’s going to be good.”
Many homes in the mountains escaped storm damage
Flooding and mudslides severely damaged homes close to the river. Many of those have either been sold or remain for sale. Some properties located on higher ground escaped damage. Ranch-style and farmhouse-style homes are prominent among options. There are also bungalows, Colonials and custom homes in rustic, mountain settings. There’s even new construction. Discounting damaged homes, prices here range from around $200,000 to $1 million-plus. The median price is about $340,000.
Amid relatively high elevation, residents can typically expect warm, humid summers and winters that are cold enough for an outdoor ice rink in town.
Community park has reopened; outdoor adventures are plentiful
Canton Recreation Park has reopened, but the pool and playground remain closed. Playground renovations should be finished by mid-September, says Dunbar, who added that a late-August bike race is scheduled for the re-opening of nearby Chestnut Mountain Nature Park. The river’s existing water-quality issues were exacerbated by the hurricane, but it remains an anchor of regional recreation and a haven for outdoors enthusiasts. Lake Logan is about 20 minutes outside of town, and residents also have access to the Blue Ridge Parkway, a popular destination for seasoned hikers who want to enjoy the picturesque surroundings. “I think the best thing about Canton is the proximity to all the outdoor adventures,” Dunbar says.
Restaurants, cafes and boutique shops downtown
Downtown Canton is rebuilding like the rest of the community, but the commercial district provides a solid foundation amid a shifting economic climate. Restaurants, cafes and boutiques are housed in a collection of historic buildings that highlight the community’s Southern charm and resilience. The community’s signature celebration is the Canton Labor Day Festival, marking its 117th year in 2025. The event, originally meant to honor the paper mill workers, takes place downtown and includes music, food, crafts and a parade.
North Canton Elementary highest-rated of three community schools
Canton is served by Haywood County Schools, rated B-plus by Niche. North Canton Elementary (A-minus), Canton Middle (B-plus) and Pisgah High (B) are all conveniently located in the community. “Canton still has that small-town feel,” Dunbar says. “It’s not too big and not too small. We have great education and a family-friendly environment.” The high school partners with Haywood Community College for its Career & College Promise program and offers dual-credit courses in a variety of traditional and vocational subjects. North Carolina does not have open enrollment.
Residents enjoy convenient access to Asheville
North Carolina Highway 215 and U.S. Route 23 quickly connect residents to nearby Interstate 40. Known regionally as Andrew Jackson Highway, I-40 provides convenient access to Asheville, about 20 miles away. I-40 also connects to I-26, which leads to Asheville Regional Airport south of the city. Haywood Regional Medical Center is about 7 miles from the community.
Written By
Matt Pallister
