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Ecusta Trail: Transforming History into a Future Greenway
Hendersonville -- January 2, 2024: The Ecusta Trail corridor was a vital railway route, originally part of the Southern Railway and later
incorporated into the Norfolk Southern Railway system. The line served the once-thriving Ecusta Paper Mill near Brevard, which relied on the railway to transport raw materials and finished products. Following the mill’s closure in 2002, rail traffic dwindled, and the corridor was abandoned.
Efforts to convert the unused railway into a greenway began in the early 2000s as part of a national rail-to-trail movement, which seeks to preserve historical rail corridors while transforming them into resources for recreation and sustainable transportation. The Ecusta Trail is now poised to honor this legacy while creating new opportunities for the region.
Progress Amid Challenges
Construction on the trail began in late 2023, starting with a six-mile segment from Hendersonville to Horse Shoe. By September 2024, significant progress had been made, with paving underway and completion of this phase expected by year’s end. However, Hurricane Helene caused approximately $400,000 in damage to the trail in October 2024, delaying the opening of Phase 1 to mid-2025.
Despite these setbacks, community support for the project has been unwavering. Volunteers, donors, and local organizations have rallied to ensure the project stays on course, demonstrating the region’s resilience and commitment to the trail’s success.
Community Engagement and Rebranding
In November 2024, Friends of Ecusta Trail—a nonprofit leading the project—introduced a new logo and website, reinforcing the trail’s identity and encouraging community participation. The updated website offers information about progress, amenities, and ways to support the project, reflecting the community-driven nature of the initiative.
Planned Amenities for an Enhanced Experience
To make the trail accessible and enjoyable for all, planners are incorporating a variety of amenities, including:
Signage and Wayfinding: Location markers and kiosks to guide visitors.
Comfort Features: Benches, bike racks, and waste receptacles for convenience.
Comfort Features: Benches, bike racks, and waste receptacles for convenience.
Infrastructure for Visitors: Future plans include bathroom facilities and designated parking areas.
These additions aim to ensure a safe, welcoming experience for users while preserving the natural beauty of the trail.
These additions aim to ensure a safe, welcoming experience for users while preserving the natural beauty of the trail.
Funding Success and Leadership Transition
The Ecusta Trail has benefited from significant funding, including $6.5 million raised locally through the "Making the Dream Real" campaign and an additional $45 million in federal grants. As construction progresses, Conserving Carolina has transitioned stewardship of the trail to Friends of Ecusta Trail, who will oversee its maintenance, enhancements, and long-term sustainability.
Projected Opening and Long-Term Goals
Despite the delays caused by Hurricane Helene, the first six-mile segment of the trail is expected to open to the public by June 2025. Plans for the remaining 13.4 miles are ongoing, with a vision of completing the entire trail in the near future. Once operational, the Ecusta Trail is anticipated to attract thousands of visitors annually, contributing to local businesses and bolstering the outdoor tourism economy.
A Vision for the Future
The Ecusta Trail is more than just a greenway—it’s a bridge between Western North Carolina’s industrial past and its recreation-focused future. By preserving the historical significance of the former railroad corridor, the trail is poised to become a beloved community asset, offering scenic beauty, recreational opportunities, and economic benefits for generations to come.
For updates on the Ecusta Trail’s progress or to contribute to its development, visit the ecustatrail.org
