North Carolina Trails: About the North Carolina Trails Program

Mountain Trail sign at Pilot Mountain State Park

The North Carolina Trails Program originated in 1973 with the North Carolina Trails System Act and is dedicated to helping citizens, organizations and agencies plan, develop and manage all types of trails ranging from greenways and trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding to paddle trails and off-road vehicle trails.

The staff of the Trails Program, along with the North Carolina Trails Committee, work together to enable volunteers, nonprofit organizations and government agencies to develop trail plans, preserve land and manage trails for all trail users. Staff provides technical assistance, offers grant opportunities and develops successful partnerships with local conservation and recreation advocates.

What We Do

Trails Committee The North Carolina Trails Committee advises the Trails Program on funding recommendations and provide a link between community constituents and the program.

Trails Program Staff Need help? Find the contact information for the Trails Program staff member you want to reach.

Regional Trail Planning Regional trail systems are planned and developed in partnership with councils of government, agencies, counties, municipalities, nonprofit organizations and trail users.

Regional Trails Specialists Three trails specialists focus on the Mountain, Piedmont or Coastal region and work with local organizations and volunteers in assessing, planning, designing and laying out trails.

Trail Funding The North Carolina Trails Program administers the Recreational Trails Program, which provides federal grants for trail creation and maintenance.

Technical Assistance Trails Program staff members offer expertise on developing sustainable trails, efficient trail maintenance and providing accessibility.

State Trails There are six state trails overseen by the Trails Program: Deep River, Fonta Flora, French Broad River, Hickory Nut Gorge, Mountains-to-Sea and Yadkin River.

Park Trails North Carolina has 41 state parks with trails for hiking, walking, biking, paddling and horseback riding, ranging from easy to strenuously difficult.

Great Trails, Great Partners

U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration

North Carolina Department of Transportation

North Carolina Division of Parks and Recreation