The transformation of disused railway lines into trails for biking and walking has long been discussed, especially since the last train departure in 2001. This vision is gradually becoming reality as plans for the Saluda Grade Trail move forward. This project aims to convert a 31.5-mile stretch of abandoned railway into a scenic pathway, connecting Inman, South Carolina, to Zirconia, North Carolina.
In a recent gathering at the Landrum Farmer’s Market, South Carolina, community members came out in numbers to engage with the project. Attendees explored the proposed trail’s route via posters and sought information from volunteers and consultants.
A unique engagement strategy was deployed by 12-year-old Luna Chappell and her sister, where they invited participants to allocate play money into baskets labeled with various trail benefits, such as “nature and scenic value” and “safe and accessible trails.” Luna remarked on the initiative’s creativity, emphasizing its role in fostering community investment.
The trail project, led by nonprofits Conserving Carolina, PAL: Play, Advocate, Live Well, and Upstate Forever, recently reached a significant milestone. In June, they purchased the rail corridor from Norfolk Southern for $28.5 million, a transaction supported by state legislatures and a grant from the South Carolina Conservation Bank.
‘A big, big milestone’
Kieran Roe, executive director of Conserving Carolina, highlighted the importance of acquiring the land after extensive negotiations. “That was a big, big milestone,” he told BPR, noting that community ownership now allows for strategic planning of the trail’s development to benefit local areas.
The trail’s route, once known for being the steepest standard-gauge railway in the country, now faces challenges such as overgrown areas and damage from Hurricane Helene. Despite these setbacks, Roe remains optimistic about securing federal grants and completing the trail’s design in the coming years.
Preserving history while moving forward
As plans progress, concerns remain over the trail’s impact on private properties and archaeological sites. Ellie Varn, researching historical laborers from the 1880s, hopes construction will consider these elements. Meanwhile, local residents like Bill Crowell and April Sprinkle express excitement, with Sprinkle humorously remarking, “We just hope that it’s up and running while we can still ride a bicycle.”
With land now in nonprofit hands, the focus shifts to fundraising for construction, aiming to bring the trail to fruition for community enjoyment. The next community session is slated for April 23, 2026, at Polk County High School.
