The need, and the opportunity:
Since the 2012 opening of Bracken Preserve – a series of trails in the hills above Brevard – many trail advocates and enthusiastic visitors pored over maps, dreaming of additional ways to connect this trail system to other corners of Pisgah.
The seldom-used Joel Branch Road (FS 5002) meandered remarkably close to Horse Cove Road (FS 475C), which connected to Bracken Mountain Preserve. Only 400 feet of elevation separated the two roads, and so a trail to connect them was proposed in the 2018 Pisgah Ranger District Recreation Plan.
A collaborative effort:
Although the U.S. Forest Service had limited resources to complete the full project, the agency provided critical support including:
- Funding the archaeological and botanical assessments that were required under the National Environmental Policy Act
- Completing the Decision Memo that authorized the project
- Making needed improvements to Joel Branch Road
We raised the funds that were needed to cover the rest of the project, contracted out the required environmental surveys, and contracted and paid for the trail construction thanks to the generosity of the Transylvania County Tourism Development Authority, the City of Brevard, Transylvania County, and The Hub & Pisgah Tavern.
After the needed funding was secured, we contracted local trail builder Ed Sutton of Trail Dynamics to construct the new 1.25-mile trail.
A special thank you to volunteers from the Backcountry Horsemen of Pisgah and the Carolina Mountain Club who helped to clear brush from Joel Branch Road and prepare it for the construction to begin.
One new trail, endless adventures:
The end result, Stony Knob Trail, is a modern and well-designed trail, meandering through coves and wrapping around ridges. Tight turns and rolling design still provide an engaging experience on a mountain bike, while the construction also allows gravel riders or equestrians to connect these forest routes without technical difficulty.
“This trail project offers a unique opportunity. By adding this new trail we have been able to open up 25 miles of access for hikers and bikers, and a significant section of trail for equestrians.” – Dave Casey, District Ranger, Pisgah Ranger District
“This trail is the missing link. Filling in this gap between trails is entirely consistent with Brevard’s long term strategy to build the tourism infrastructure of the area. We want to connect our citizens and tourists with the incredible natural resources that surround us and enhance Brevard’s position as a leading destination for outdoor recreation.” – Mac Morrow, City of Brevard
