Our state is embracing 2023 as the North Carolina Year of the Trail and for good reason! It truly is important to get outside. You should be enjoying the various beautiful and diverse natural aspects our state has to offer. This special year-long celebration highlights an abundance of outdoor experiences for hikers, bikers, and nature lovers, inviting people at every age and skill level to explore the state’s stunning natural terrain.
North Carolina Year Of The Trail Embraces A Positive Change
The Year of the Trail initiative celebrates North Carolina’s trails. It emphasizes their potential to be a powerful force for positive change. And in all kinds of ways, from promoting physical activity and connecting us with nature to driving job creation and economic growth. Let’s get moving and let’s hit the trail!
Promote and Preserve
North Carolina’s Year of the Trail is committed to keeping our outdoor experiences alive and well for years to come. From protecting wildlife habitats in the Great Smoky Mountains, to safeguarding resources along the Outer Banks, this initiative seeks not only to promote recreational opportunities but also preserve ecosystems across our state which are essential for future generations. Funds from The Year of The Trail go directly toward trail maintenance and construction. They go to environmental protection efforts, too.
Moore County In The Spotlight
Moore County – the Pinehurst, Southern Pines and Aberdeen area in particular – should be in the spotlight for its key initiative. The county is celebrating the Year of The Trail with a unique outdoor adventure: The Pinecone Pathways Program. Moore County has partnered with Starworks Glassmakers in nearby Star to provide 200 stunning art pieces. These pieces will be hidden across paths throughout the county on a weekly basis. Residents and visitors alike can search for these unique glass pinecone sculptures along their journey. Each one features an exclusive number or code that could reward them with great prizes when registered online.
A second unique trail experience also comes alive in April in Moore County. Explore the wonders of Moore County and embark on a unique adventure with Winnie-the-Pooh! The Sandhills Story Trail Adventures was created by Pinehurst, Southern Pines & Aberdeen Area Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB). It is in collaboration with its official Destination Storyteller – Dan Dreyer. The Story Trail offers an interactive experience for kids of all ages.
Moore County is also celebrating the vibrant culture of its towns and communities through the installation of eye-catching murals under the umbrella of their Moore County Mural Trail. From local history to beloved figures, more than a dozen stunning works adorn downtown districts and rural landscapes. For an especially high concentration, look no further than Carthage’s Courthouse Square. Here there are five delightful pieces await discovery! And that’s not all: Explore Robbins in the north or Aberdeen down south for even more. There’s also captivating creations scattered throughout Southern Pines, Vass, and Cameron.
Come Together In Nature
The North Carolina Year of the Trail is an exciting initiative to bring people from all walks of life together. There will be a host of activities and events meant for adventurers, environmental stewards, and those with disabilities alike. These range from guided hikes/bike rides in stunning surroundings to educational programs highlighting outdoor recreation and conservation topics. It’s sure to boast unforgettable experiences for anyone looking for enriching fun.
This initiative reminds us that outdoor recreation has something to offer people from all walks of life. Whether it be a peaceful stroll in your local park or an adventurous hike through stunning mountain landscapes – there is truly no better way to get moving and experience nature first-hand than exploring North Carolina’s expansive network of trails.
Leave No Trace
The Year of the Trail encourages nature-lovers to practice mindfulness when exploring and appreciating outdoor environments. This involves being conscious in our actions, like staying on trails, avoiding disruption of wildlife habitats, and properly disposing of waste for a positive impact that will last long after we depart from the outdoors.
Let’s Celebrate Nature
North Carolina is inviting outdoor lovers everywhere to join the celebration of its natural beauty for this special year — The Year of the Trail. And for those living in or visiting the Sandhills —Pinehurst, Southern Pines and Moore County — we recommend going on a natural treasure hunt in the outdoors with the Pinecone Pathways Program in search of beautiful glass pinecones!
Get involved in building, maintaining and exploring trails across our beautiful state as you get fit while helping your local community flourish. Not only will it be an enjoyable experience; but also with each step taken or guided ride cycled outdoors we are working together towards providing future generations a safe place where they can explore nature’s wonders. We hope you will get out there and enjoy the trails of NC during the North Carolina Year of the Trail.
