'Year of the Trail' spurred interest in hiking in the High Country, conservancy says

State officials designated 2023 as the “Year of the TraiI” to promote the vast network of trails and greenways in North Carolina.

Last year’s effort, sponsored by the North Carolina General Assembly, included marketing and events encouraging people of varying ages, abilities and backgrounds to get outside and into nature.

The legislature noted outdoor recreation is a $28 billion industry in the state, and trails, greenways and rivers provide the infrastructure.

Jordan Sellers is a trail coordinator for Blue Ridge Conservancy. The organization is a member of the Great Trails State Coalition, which partners with local communities to protect natural resources in North Carolina. 

Sellers says the campaign provided a boost to trail usage in the High Country.

"Trails are an extremely well-loved and popular asset in North Carolina from a diverse group," he says. "All sorts of people from all walks of life really love trails."

Last year, the legislature added to the effort by creating the Great Trails State fund, a $25 million competitive grant program for additional trail development. 

Sellers says he expects the funding to have a huge impact on outdoor recreation and access in North Carolina.