07/01/2026
Trails of all kinds build communities around them. Rail trails are a special niche in more urban locations. They are accessible for everyone and encourage small business development that boosts the economies of the communities and towns along them. Years ago we watched the Swamp Rabbit Trail in the Greenville, SC area transform the nearly deserted town of Travelers Rest into a bustling, active and attractive place to live or visit today. So when the Ecusta Trail opened it's first 6 miles here in Hendersonville NC, we spent opening day talking to local business owners to see how it was going. We're approaching the one year anniversary this month and the trail is still being developed, but here's a throwback to opening day.