Orange County NC Website
7 <br /> Slide #1 <br /> ORANGE COUNTY <br /> NORTH CAROLINA <br /> 22 - Year of the Trail <br /> Great Trails State Coalition <br /> Slide #2 <br /> Year of the Trail 2023 <br /> • Trails important for open space, environment, <br /> economy and public health <br /> • Over 30 miles of trail in the County (13 miles <br /> within County parrs and preserves) <br /> • Mountains to Sea Trail (MST) — important <br /> segments connecting Saxapahaw to Durham <br /> • Many local governments have adapted <br /> ORANGE COUNTY <br /> w70R-n I C_iAULLNA <br /> David Stancil said trail use increased 300% during the pandemic and continues to be well <br /> above normal now. He said trails and trail corridors are important for the protection of the <br /> environment and provide spaces for native species to thrive. He said urban communities have <br /> embraced trails as a way to connect people with town center and local businesses. He said there <br /> are also great linkages between hiking and walking with public health and mental health and well- <br /> being. <br />