Saluda – A major milestone has been reached in the effort to create a scenic new rail trail connecting communities across both Carolinas, although much work remains. On June 17, the Saluda Grade Trails Conservancy officially purchased the historic Saluda Grade rail corridor from Norfolk Southern—a transformative step in turning a long-held dream into reality.
The public is invited to celebrate this important milestone at a community event on Wednesday, July 31, at 5:30 p.m. at the Tryon Depot, located at 22 Depot Street in downtown Tryon.
The 31.5-mile stretch of railway, once known for its steep incline and rich railroad heritage, will now be reimagined as the Saluda Grade Trail. When complete, this multi-use trail will wind through picturesque small towns across Western North Carolina and Upstate South Carolina, including Inman, Campobello, Landrum, Tryon, Saluda, and Zirconia. The project promises not only stunning views and new recreational opportunities but also a meaningful boost to local economies.
“For many years, people have looked at the unique communities and spectacular scenery along this rail corridor and hoped it could be transformed into a rail trail,” said Glenn Hilliard, founder and chair of the Saluda Grade Trails Conservancy. “Closing the purchase is a wonderful achievement, and we owe deep appreciation to the many partners and contributors who made this possible.”
The Saluda Grade Trails Conservancy is a coalition formed by three nonprofits: Conserving Carolina, Upstate Forever, and PAL: Play, Advocate, Live Well. After going under contract last summer, the group had one year to finalize the $28.5 million purchase—a goal they successfully reached with the help of state funding from North and South Carolina, a grant from the South Carolina Conservation Bank, and support from private donors and foundations.
In North Carolina, state legislators Rep. Jake Johnson and Sen. Tim Moffit helped secure state funding for the purchase, along with key support from Rep. Dean Arp, a champion of trails in the state.
NC Rep. Jake Johnson, who is originally from Saluda, said, “I am excited for the opportunity that this acquisition offers and glad to see so many stakeholders now at the table ensuring it is done the right way. My goal is to provide the greatest economic opportunity while fitting the culture of our region. We still have a long way to go as we explore the options for a passenger train, bike and hiking trails, and how best to partner with towns and counties along the corridor. However, I am optimistic that working together we can create something that years from now we will all be proud of.”
With ownership of the corridor now secured, attention turns to the next phase: planning and building the trail. This effort will include community engagement, trail design, and securing additional funds for construction. Federal and state grants are expected to play a major role in the funding strategy.
Trail supporters are already seeing early signs of positive economic momentum. Outdoor industry businesses like Time Bicycles and Boyd Cycling have announced plans to locate along the corridor—an indication of the project’s potential to attract new investment and activity even before the trail is built.
As Laura Ringo, executive director of PAL, noted, the trail will promote health and economic vitality throughout the region. “Choosing an active lifestyle will become easier, safer, and more convenient,” she said, highlighting the project’s dual role in enhancing quality of life and fostering economic development.
Unlike trails deep in the backcountry, the Saluda Grade Trail will pass directly through the heart of communities, making it easily accessible for people of all ages and abilities. Kieran Roe, executive director of Conserving Carolina, described the vision: a trail that invites everyone—from long-distance cyclists to school kids out for an afternoon ride—to enjoy the outdoors and connect with their communities.
The long-term vision for the Saluda Grade Trail is even more expansive. At the southern end, it could link with the 55-mile Daniel Morgan Trail System in Spartanburg. At the northern end, it may eventually connect to the 19-mile Ecusta Trail between Hendersonville and Brevard—forming a vital piece of the emerging Hellbender Trail network that spans the region.
From the early stages of planning to the final connection of a regional trail system, the Saluda Grade Trail is shaping up to be more than a local attraction. It is a legacy project—one that blends history, health, nature, and economic opportunity into a single, inspiring vision.