Volunteers and organizations are actively engaged in restoring the trails in the Grandfather Ranger District of the Pisgah National Forest, a year after the destructive aftermath of Tropical Storm Helene. Despite continued closures, efforts are underway to reopen and enhance the trails, crucial for local tourism and the economy.
A major contributor to these projects is a partnership between the G5 Trail Collective, Toyota, and OnX, who have mobilized around 50 volunteers to tackle trail restoration. These teams have been instrumental in building retaining walls and laying rocks to stabilize trails affected by landslides. Additionally, four miles of trails have been cleaned to improve safety for hikers and bikers. These efforts have resulted in the reopening of 35 miles of trail.
Christina Redman from the G5 Trail Collective highlighted the economic significance of these trails, emphasizing how vital they are for local businesses dependent on tourism. Bringing in visitors to enjoy the outdoor experiences provided by the trails is crucial for the community that largely relies on the tourism industry.
OnX’s involvement goes beyond financial backing, as they have provided a $60,000 grant used for supplies and essential equipment. Team members from OnX also traveled to volunteer their time, underscoring their commitment to the project’s success.
The restoration initiatives at Old Fort not only address current needs but also indulge in a long-term vision for revitalizing the area. Becky Marcelliano from OnX expressed her admiration for the progress, noting the visible improvements despite the scars left by the storm.
To accommodate these efforts, the G5 Trail Collective has temporarily opened a new trailhead while awaiting repairs to the original entrance. As these repairs are anticipated by November, the collective is also poised to expand their trail network by an additional 21 miles.
Further volunteer opportunities are available, with a significant trail work event planned for the first weekend of November. This effort will see 150 volunteers joining hands to enhance various trails, further solidifying the community’s dedication to revitalizing this natural asset.
Such restoration projects not only restore the physical landscape but also invigorate the community spirit, fostering a shared purpose and hope for a thriving future.