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2023 is the Year of the Trail in North Carolina — and September is Year of the Trail Month in Rutherford County!
Throughout the year, events will be held in every county, including special events in State Parks, guided trail experiences, clean-ups, celebrations, and more. Rutherford County invites you to celebrate the Year of the Trail by exploring the Great Outdoors of Lake Lure, Chimney Rock, and the Blue Ridge Foothills. From the incredible beauty of Hickory Nut Gorge and the Blue Ridge Mountains to quaint main streets, this beautiful area provides endless trail opportunities for all ages.
Rutherford County Year of the Trail Events
- Amazing Race - September 9, 2023 - Teams will race from station to station by bicycle or on foot seeking out their next clue in a game of wits, local history knowledge, and team-building, all while getting a good workout!
- ROC River Clean-up - September 19, 2023 - Participate in a special Year of the Trail River Cleanup to clean up section 5 of the Broad River.
- National Public Lands Day Sunset Hike - September 23, 2023 - Take part in an after-hours sunset hike to the top of the Chimney with one of the original stewards of the park.
- National Public Lands Day Campfire Celebration - September 23, 2023 - Celebrate with a toast at Chimney Rock Brewing Company to commemorate the newly designated Hickory Nut Gorge State Trail.
- 15th Annual Flock to the Rock - September 30, 2023 - This event was designed so birders of all skill sets can enjoy one of the country’s fastest-growing hobbies – bird watching!
- Upper Boulders Trail Ribbon Cutting - September 30, 2023 - Join the Town of Lake Lure and the Carolina Climbers Coalition for the grand opening of the Upper Boulders Trail in Buffalo Creek Park.
There's so much more to see and do in Rutherford County! Here are more ways to celebrate the Year of the Trail and get outdoors this year.
