Year of the Trail (2023)

Find Your Path at N.C. State Parks

Graphic for the 2023 Year of the Trail annual theme

Every year, North Carolina State Parks has celebrated an annual theme in all of our state parks. Programs, festivals and events throughout the state support the annual theme.

The Interpretive and Education Council, a diverse group of park staff members from across the state, selects the theme each year based on suggestions and nominations.

A unique collectible bandana for the annual theme is available for sale at the park webstore or at each park office and visitor center.

Below are some resources for park staff and educators to tie in to the 2023 annual theme.

Father and daughter hiking on the suspension bridge at Eno River State Park
Hikers on the suspension bridge along the Cox Mountain Trail at Eno River State Park. Photo by C. Peek.
Equestrians on the West Loop Bridle Trail at Raven Rock State Park
Equestrians on the West Loop Bridle Trail at Raven Rock State Park. Photo by J. Davidson.

Interpretive Resources

Hikers at Elk Knob State Park enjoying the beautiful autumn leaf colors
Visitors enjoying a beautiful fall day and the leaf colors at Elk Knob State Park. Photo by C. Peek.
A kayaker enjoying the serene millpond at Merchants Millpond State Park
Kayaker paddling on the millpond at Merchants Millpond State Park. Staff Photo.

Classroom Resources

Hiker Trevor Thomas and his service dog on the Mountains-to-Sea State Trail at Stone Mountain State Park
Trevor Thomas, known as The Blind Hiker, and his guide dog, Tennille, on a long-distance thru-hike of the Mountain-to-Sea State Trail at Stone Mountain State Park. Photo by C. Peek.
Father and son biking on the trail at Lake James State Park
A family riding together through the bike trails at Lake James State Park. Photo by C. Peek.

Field Resources

Girls on a field trip at Jones Lake State Park
A group of schoolchildren on a field trip hike at Jones Lake State Park. Staff Photo.
Visitor on a wheelchair fishing at Morrow Mountain State Park
Visitor utilizing the wheelchair-accessible fishing pier at Morrow Mountain State Park. Photo by P. Woodward.

Other Resources

Video Resources

August 25, 2020

NC State Parks and the Mountains-to-Sea State Trail: Experience Nature

January 18, 2022

Trail Safety by Sami Hunsucker

January 18, 2022

Hiking Do's and Dont's

January 18, 2022

What to Take on a Hike by Sami Hunsucker

May 25, 2021

Safe Boating