– Kathleen Armstrong, NRC Director of Trail Planning and Community Engagement
As we embark on another orbit together, we look back at the accomplishments and
challenges of the past year. 2025 brought about growth, struggle, joy and everything in between. In 2025, the New River Conservancy expanded its scope as a conservation organization by activating communities across the watershed to formalize planning efforts for a comprehensive New River Water Trail.
Partners from all corners of the watershed are joining forces to cultivate an ambitious 360-mile New River Water Trail (NRWT) that will span North Carolina, Virginia, and West Virginia. The multi-year planning process for the NRWT seeks to connect Appalachian communities, strengthen rural economies, and promote stewardship through trail development.
In 2026, we would like to engage with you even more. NRC has launched a New River Water Trail webpage, where you can find more information about the plan, engagement opportunities like trail related events and surveys, and existing trail segments.
Please visit WATER TRAIL