Pisgah Forest Volunteers Restore Trails on Public Lands Day

Families across North Carolina have a chance to protect the forests they love while spending a day outdoors together.

The Pisgah Conservancy is inviting volunteers of all ages to roll up their sleeves on Saturday, September 26, for National Public Lands Day. The event brings the community together to care for Pisgah National Forest through hands-on conservation projects.

Volunteers will fan out across popular locations including the Pisgah Visitor Center, Art Loeb Trail, Estatoe Trail, Daniel Ridge Trail, and Andy Cove Trail. Projects range from trail maintenance and gardening to removing invasive plants that threaten native ecosystems.

The event welcomes anyone age 10 and older, making it a perfect opportunity for families to introduce kids to environmental stewardship. No special skills are required, just a willingness to help.

The Pisgah Conservancy is partnering with Conservation Corps North Carolina, Transylvania County Master Gardeners, Carolina Climbers Coalition, and Pisgah Cowboys to make the day a success. Together, these groups bring expertise in everything from trail building to native plant restoration.

After a morning of meaningful work, volunteers can celebrate together at Oskar Blues for an afternoon gathering. It's a chance to meet fellow nature lovers and see the collective impact of the day's efforts.

The Ripple Effect

This forest stewardship day comes at a crucial time for Pisgah National Forest. The Forest Service recently received nearly $65 million in recovery funds to restore national forests damaged by severe weather, highlighting how volunteer efforts complement larger conservation initiatives.

When communities care for public lands, everyone benefits. Well-maintained trails mean safer hiking for families. Removing invasive plants gives native species room to thrive. Healthy forests filter water, provide wildlife habitat, and offer spaces where people can find peace and connection.

National Public Lands Day happens annually across the country, inspiring thousands to give back to the parks, forests, and wild spaces that enrich their lives. In Pisgah, this tradition strengthens the bond between locals and the 500,000-acre forest that defines the region's identity.

The work matters beyond a single day too. Volunteers often return for future projects, building a network of engaged citizens who become long-term stewards of their natural heritage.

One Saturday of service helps ensure these mountain trails and forests remain beautiful for generations to come.