News Summary

A community event in Tryon, NC, celebrated a major milestone for the Saluda Grade Trail, a 31.5-mile rail trail project. Local organizations PAL and Conserving Carolina hosted the festivities, which included a ribbon-cutting ceremony and public remarks from key stakeholders. Community members gathered to acknowledge the benefits of the trail, which will enhance outdoor recreation, tourism, and economic growth for local businesses. The completion of the trail signifies a commitment to community health and wellness while promoting environmental conservation.

Saluda Grade Trail Progress Celebrated at Community Event in Tryon, NC

On July 31, 2025, the Saluda Grade Trail Celebration took place in Tryon, North Carolina, marking a significant milestone in the development of a 31.5-mile rail trail. Hosted by the local organizations PAL (Play, Advocate, Live Well) and Conserving Carolina, the event drew local officials, community members, and trail enthusiasts to commemorate the project that promises to significantly benefit the region.

The celebration featured a variety of activities, including a ribbon-cutting ceremony, public remarks from key stakeholders, a ceremonial spike removal, and live musical performances. Attendees gathered in front of the Historic Saluda Depot and continued activities at the Historic Tryon Depot. The event highlighted the collective efforts that have gone into the trail’s development, showcasing the community’s commitment to enhancing outdoor recreational opportunities.

Key Contributors and Financial Support

Laura Ringo, the Executive Director of PAL, welcomed attendees and underscored the importance of financial backing from the South Carolina Conservation Bank and the Mary Black Foundation. These funding sources have played a pivotal role in advancing the trail project. Additionally, Michael Forrester, a prominent advocate for the trail, shared insights into his commitment to seeing the project come to fruition.

Local officials, including Landrum Mayor Bob Briggs, expressed their gratitude to the various partners involved in the trail’s development. Mayor Alan Peoples of Tryon and Mayor Tangie Morgan of Saluda also spoke at the event, highlighting the trail’s economic potential for local businesses. The mayors described the Saluda Grade Trail as a bridge connecting communities and creating new opportunities for growth and tourism.

Benefits to the Community and Surrounding Areas

The Saluda Grade Trail, which converts the historic Saluda Grade Railroad into a multi-use path, connects the areas of Inman, South Carolina, to Zirconia, North Carolina, while passing through key towns such as Gramling, Landrum, Tryon, and Saluda. The trail is expected to generate an estimated $240 million in economic benefits, enhancing health and wellness, outdoor recreational opportunities, and creating wildlife habitats in the region.

Maggie Thompson, Chief Deputy Secretary for the North Carolina Department of Cultural and Natural Resources, praised the collaboration between North Carolina and South Carolina that has led to the trail’s development. Kiernan Roe, the Executive Director of Conserving Carolina, emphasized the vital role that community engagement has played in bringing the project to life.

Funding and Project Background

The Saluda Grade Trail project was acquired for $28.5 million from Norfolk Southern on June 17, 2025. This purchase has been facilitated by a combination of significant funding sources, including $12 million from the North Carolina General Assembly, $15 million from the South Carolina legislature, and a $450,000 grant from the Appalachian Regional Initiative for Stronger Economies. Local nonprofits have been instrumental in supporting the initiative, which has been in development for approximately three years.

The trail is designed to improve recreation, tourism, and economic development throughout the region. There is also potential for the Saluda Grade Trail to connect with the nearby Ecusta Trail, creating a larger network of multi-use paths to further benefit the local communities.

Entertainment at the event included live music from the Pinnacle Mountain All-Stars and culinary offerings from Chef Sharone, enhancing the festive atmosphere of the celebration.

The completion and launch of the Saluda Grade Trail represent a significant step forward in enhancing community cohesion, economic development, and outdoor enjoyment for residents and visitors alike in the Tryon area.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

• Tryon Daily Bulletin: Saluda Grade Trail Celebration
• Blue Ridge Now: Saluda Grade Trail Railroad Purchase
• Fox Carolina: Saluda Grade Railroad Purchased
• WSPA: Group Officially Purchases Railroad Tracks for Saluda Grade Trail
• Wikipedia: Saluda Grade
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Railway