This is our state.
These are our trails.

DISCOVER THE GREAT TRAILS STATE

IN NORTH CAROLINA, THERE IS A TRAIL FOR EVERYONE, PLACES OF REFUGE AND RECREATION, CONNECTING US TO THE VERY ESSENCE OF THIS STATE.

WALK

NORTH CAROLINA IS FULL OF AMAZING PLACES TO SOAK UP THE GREAT OUTDOORS.

PEDAL

FROM MOUNTAINS TO SEA, YOU’LL FIND ROADS AND TRAILS READY TO BE EXPLORED.

PADDLE

DISCOVER NORTH CAROLINA’S BLUEWAYS AND SCENIC WATERWAYS.

RIDE

SADDLE UP FOR A RIDE THROUGH NORTH CAROLINA.

FIND THE TRAIL FOR YOU

No matter what your style, North Carolina offers trails for all. From accessible greenways to thrilling peaks and anything in between, every trail and every trail experience brings movement, health, and happiness. Embrace the outdoors in The Great Trails State!

WE NEED TRAILS. TO MOVE, TO PLAY, TO DISCOVER.

See all of the Great Trails State Coalition Videos Here
A trail work crew stands on a log

Recovery and Resilience Through Trails: A Testament to Community Strength in the Great Trails State Post-Helene

In the wake of Hurricane Helene, the landscapes and communities of Western North Carolina have faced an unprecedented test. The storm's damage was catastrophic, altering the southern Appalachian region in unimaginable ways—forests flattened, homes and livelihoods...
Read More

Exploring The Great Trails State’s State Trails

How do you follow an event like Year of the Trail? You don’t. You build on it. Last year's Year of the Trail was intended to promote North Carolina’s vast trail system. Hiking trails, sure, but paddling, biking and equestrian as well. Year of the Trail events were...
Read More

Four Long-Distance Trails in The Great Trails State

Exploring North Carolina's Long-Distance Trails... North Carolina boasts a diverse landscape, from the peaks of the Appalachian Mountains to the shores of the Outer Banks. Among its natural wonders are its long-distance trails, offering adventurers a chance to immerse...
Read More

Restoring the Heart of the Community: The Great Coharie River Initiative

In the heart of Sampson County, North Carolina, a remarkable initiative is quietly reshaping the landscape and rejuvenating the spirit of a community. The Great Coharie River Initiative, launched in 2015, is a testament to the resilience and determination of the...
Read More

The Future of Trail Development in North Carolina

The evolution of intentional trail design has progressed over the years and there are many people in NC on the cutting edge of trail development. Chuck Flink gives a glimpse into the future of trail development in NC.

Read More

THE GREAT TRAILS STATE IS HOSTED BY THE GREAT TRAILS STATE COALITION AND SUPPORTED BY:

View our Coalition Members

FOLLOW US

THE OUTDOOR RECREATION ECONOMY GENERATES $14.6 BILLION IN
ANNUAL REVENUE IN NORTH CAROLINA & 130,000 JOBS

TRAILS ARE BUILDING NORTH CAROLINA