Last Thursday, I had the privilege of attending one of the WV Trail’s Regional Meetings, where the Elk River Trail Foundation had the honor of co-sponsoring the Flatwoods meeting. WV Trail, Inc., is a statewide non-profit organization that champions non-motorized trails in West Virginia.  Its mission is to raise awareness and appreciation for various trails, including rail-trails, hiking, and bike paths, and to enhance the resources available for their acquisition, development, and maintenance. The event brought together passionate individuals, organizations, and community leaders from across the state to discuss how we can shape the future of trails in West Virginia. It was an open, public conversation about the development of a renewed statewide trail plan and a reminder of what unites us.

During the discussion, I was struck by a statistic that truly made me pause: West Virginia currently ranks 46th in quality of life, yet our state parks consistently rank in the top 10 nationally across multiple categories. That contrast speaks volumes. It shows that while we face challenges, the foundation for improving quality of life in our state already exists right in our own backyard.

Our trails, parks, and outdoor spaces are more than recreational assets; they are lifelines that connect us to nature, to our communities, and to one another. Imagine the difference we could make if more people explored the trails that weave through our hills and valleys, took advantage of the natural beauty around us, and invested in preserving and expanding these outdoor resources. By embracing the outdoors, we not only promote healthier lifestyles but also foster stronger communities and local economies.

One theme echoed throughout the meeting — unity. Those of us who care about trails, outdoor recreation, and community development share a common vision: to build a stronger, more connected West Virginia. Every community, every county, and every individual who supports trails contributes to that collective voice. It’s through this unity and collaboration that we can bring consistency to trail planning and expand opportunities for recreation, tourism, and wellbeing statewide.

I left the Flatwoods meeting feeling inspired and deeply grateful to have been part of such an engaging and hopeful conversation. These discussions are essential for shaping a vision that reflects the needs and dreams of West Virginians, both now and for future generations.

If you weren’t able to attend this meeting, there’s good news! Additional regional meetings are being planned across the state. These sessions are open to everyone, and I highly encourage anyone who values outdoor spaces, community growth, or economic development to attend. Your voice matters, and together we can help create a brighter, more connected future for West Virginia. Information about additional meetings is available here: https://www.wvtrail.org/upcoming-events-1