America's transition from railways to highways is apparent throughout the state of North Carolina and even more so in the Central Park region where many small towns were established as either rail towns or mill towns. Approximately 3,200 miles of rail line are still in existence in North Carolina with the majority of that mileage being unused or having disappeared as a result of neglect.

In 1990 NC Rail-Trails came into existence and began actively working to preserve corridors and convert them to public use. The result you may ask? Walking and cycling trails and greenways throughout North Carolina often established along beautiful natural settings. Like many towns throughout the state, one of Central Park's very own small towns, Franklinville in Randolph County, is working with NC Rail-Trails to convert an abandoned rail-bed into the "Deep River Rail Trail."

Running along the Deep River, this riverside trail hopes to provide a place for locals and tourists alike to get out of their cars and experiences the outdoors. A perfect place to picnic along the river, kayak, canoe, let the kids play at the park along side the river (my son particularly enjoyed feeding the ducks), and even view an ancient fish weir (if water levels permit). The trail will use the former right-of-way of the abandoned rail corridor once used by the historic Atlantic & Yadkin railroad. Construction of the trail is phased with the first 1.3 miles running along the Deep River in Franklinville to Sandy Creek. In 2007, NC Legislatures designated the new Deep River State Trail along the river and the Deep River Rail Trail project is an important link in the development of the 15 mile, multi-county state trail system in North Carolina.

The trail plans to open with quite a bang to include live music, food, and fun for all on National Trails Day, June 7th 2008. I've included some photos to give you a sense about what you will see along Franklinville's DRRT. When you are in the Central Park I would definitely recommend a stop along this trail!