Western North Carolina is home to a number of rail-trails – paths for walking, hiking or biking created from railways no longer used by trains. Several of our region’s rail-trails, many within an hour’s drive of Asheville, are still evolving, with more miles recently added or in the process of being added. Here are a handful of nearby rail-trails undergoing exciting expansions and changes to create even more space for outdoor enjoyment in our region.
Saluda Grade Trail
This proposed trail, which would span 31.5 miles beginning in Inman, S.C., and pass through Western N.C. towns including Tryon, Saluda and Zirconia, would feature scenic views, historic landmarks, natural features such as lakes and waterfalls, and lively commercial districts along its path.
The Saluda Grade Trails Conservancy recently entered into a contract with Norfolk Southern to purchase a 31-mile rail corridor for the proposed rail-trail, bringing the dream of creating the trail one step closer to reality. Engineering and economic impact studies were recently presented to the public, with a study under way to consider making a portion of the rail line in N.C. an excursion railroad for scenic train rides alongside the trail. There is also potential for an equestrian path.
The Conservancy now has one year to complete due diligence and secure the remaining funds needed to purchase the rail corridor. Public input, which has been key in shaping the vision for the trail, will continue to be collected throughout the design process.
https://www.saludagradetrail.org
Prisma Health Swamp Rabbit Trail
This 28-mile multi-use greenway in South Carolina is popular with walkers and cyclists alike. It connects Travelers Rest to Greenville, traveling largely along the bed of a former railroad, the Reedy River and city parks.
The Swamp Rabbit recently added a 4-mile extension to its Green Line, making that portion the longest contiguous section of the rail-trail at roughly 17 miles. The addition, a partnership between the City of Greenville and Greenville County, was years in the making and is expected to provide an economic boost to that segment of the greenway. The Green Line Extension features two bridges over multilane roads, the state’s first diagonal pedestrian crossing, and a stretch through Holland Park, complete with ropes courses and dining options.
The rail-trail has three short, disconnected segments in Clinton, Fountain Inn and Simpsonville; a roughly 6-mile segment connecting Conestee Nature Preserve to Greenville’s Cleveland Park; a brief segment through Hampton Station; and the 17-mile Green Line portion (from Cleveland Park to just north of Travelers Rest).
https://greenvillerec.com/swamprabbit/
The Ecusta Trail
The first 6 miles of this proposed 19.4-mile rail-trail connecting Hendersonville to Brevard is set to be completed by December. The initial portion is expected to stretch from downtown Hendersonville’s visitors’ center to Horse Shoe.
With the intention of converting an abandoned rail line into a “cultural main street” connecting communities, the greenway will meander through fields and forests, featuring streams, pastures and nature-filled mountain views. The “linear park” will offer a retreat for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy, either on foot, bike, scooters or wheelchairs.
The next portion of the Ecusta Trail is currently being designed, with an expected completion date of around 2028. https://www.ecustatrail.org
Thermal Belt Trail
The longest rail-trail near Asheville is the 13.5 mile Thermal Belt Rail Trail in Rutherford County. Find shopping, restaurants and historic sites as you ride, walk or jog the 12 foot wide trail between the towns of Ruth, Rutherforton, Spindale and Forest City. Enjoy mild elevation changes and warmer temperatures thanks to being sheltered by nearby mountain peaks.
https://www.thermalbeltrailtrail.com/
For information about real estate that’s an easy drive from these and other Western N.C. rail-trails, or anywhere in Asheville or Western N.C., please contact us at Info@MyMosaicRealty.com, or call us anytime at 828-707-9556.
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