Highway 176 from Saluda to Tryon is now open, and it is easy and safe to get to Pearson’s Falls from either direction.

The heavy rains last week triggered washouts along the shoulders and culverts of the roads leading to Pearson’s Falls. Quick work by the Department of Transportation got Pearson’s Falls Road open quickly, and then U.S. 176 South from Saluda to Melrose was opened to local traffic.

Due to serious mudslides on Highway 176 North from Tryon, that road was closed until Saturday. Now, the barricades are down and Highway 176 is completely open from Tryon to Saluda.

Pearson’s Falls and Glen suffered flooding during the rain event last week, but no major damage was experienced, and there were no landslides on the property. The trail is ready for visitors.

The botanical preserve and falls are open from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. daily, with last admittance at 5 p.m. No dogs are permitted except service dogs; no swimming and no wading in the falls.

For more information, people may contact the gatekeeper at Pearson’s Falls, 828-749-3031, or go to www.pearsonsfalls.org.

Pearson’s Falls is located at 2748 Pearson’s Falls Road, Saluda. Follow the signs on Highway 176 North from Tryon or 176 South from Saluda.

– Submitted by Lucy Brannon