Record high gas prices impacting WNC tourism areas; businesses seeing drop in customers

HAYWOOD COUNTY, N.C. (WLOS) — Gas prices are high just as tourism season is getting into full swing in traditionally tourist-heavy spots in the mountains -- and they’re having an impact on visitors and businesses.

Gas prices are up well over $4 per gallon. While some visitors say they'll continue to travel, many business owners are saying they are seeing a drop-off in customers.

“This is once in a lifetime,” said Mary Claire Zelazny, who drove with her sister and a friend from Texas to see western North Carolina despite high gas prices.

“We are coming here anyway because the clock is ticking,” she told News 13 on Friday, May 13.

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Enjoying a vacation remains the focus for them -- and for many who just accept they'll have to absorb the higher cost of travel on the road.

“We just drive out and fill up and hope for the day that we're ok,” she said.

Tourism leaders are watching the price at the pump closely. So far, they say it's not impacting tourism numbers, but it is impacting tourists' behaviors.

“Visitors still want to travel. They might spend less,” said Ben Wilder, at the Haywood County Tourism Development Authority.

Wilder cites data showing two-thirds of travelers would reconsider trips if gas prices keep going up, but 60% say with high prices, they'll take shorter trips.

Wilder said Haywood County fits the bill.

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“A one-tank trip from Atlanta and Charlotte and places like that -- they can get here and still do stuff,” he said. “Our job is going to be to inspire them to still grab lunch or dinner or go shopping. We just don't know if that will be the spot to cut back, or at some point, we might see less travelers. But right now, we are still pretty."

The impact is being felt at places like Skis & Tees in Maggie Valley.

“Less people coming into the store,” said Sue Heise, with Skis & Tees.

Still, Wilder said overall, Haywood County remains a popular tourism destination with people looking for space and nature due to the pandemic.

“Right now, we still feel confident,” he said.

He said there are plenty of free things to do there.

“Hiking usually doesn't cost much. Driving a parkway and taking photos and stopping at overlooks doesn't cost anything,” Wilder said.

Visitors like Zelazny are watching their wallets while in the mountains.

“We do budget because we have to. If we didn’t, we may not make it back home,” she said.

The high gas prices are hurting visitors and local businesses alike.

“I think if it doesn't come down, a lot of businesses are going to go out of business,” said Haywood County resident and business owner Larry Burgess.

But for now, visitors are enjoying their time.

“We're having a blast,” said Zelazny.

Drivers say they feel stuck paying these prices and that they certainly hope the prices come down soon.