These access sites represent more than improved infrastructure—they reflect a long-term vision to connect people to the land and water that define Rutherford County. First identified for development in the 2018 Rutherford Bound Tourism Master Plan, the Broad River Paddle Trail is a multi-phase initiative that will eventually span nearly 41 miles from the Lake Lure Dam to the Duke Energy Plant near Cliffside.
To celebrate, community members, elected officials, and partner organizations gathered on July 11 at the US-221A site for a ribbon cutting ceremony and community paddle event. The moment marked years of collaborative work between local advocates, state agencies, and funding partners.
Pride on the Paddle Trail
For local residents, this expansion represents not only improved river access but a source of local pride in the county’s natural resources. Jenna Bailey, a Rutherford County native and founder of Keep Rutherford County Beautiful, attended the ribbon cutting with her daughter, Teagan.
“I grew up stomping around in creeks because we couldn't get on the river,” Bailey said, recalling her experience exploring the outdoors when she was Tegan’s age. “Now I'm really happy to say we can access the river. I'm so excited to see my family and my friends from other places come here and experience this beautiful river.”
After moving away from Rutherford County, then returning to the area in 2009, Bailey noticed a decline in outdoor access and desire among locals to care for the natural environment. That observation motivated her to be involved in protecting outdoor spaces. For Bailey, the Broad River Paddle Trail is about more than recreation—it’s about a renewal of local pride.
The mother-daughter duo is eager to use the new river access sites, and plan to try stand up paddleboarding together for the first time.
Built to Last
The expansion of the paddle trail is also a story of resilience and foresight. In 2024, Hurricane Helene caused widespread damage across the region—but the river access sites built by the NC Wildlife Resources Commission held strong.
“The 221 site was under construction when Helene hit, so we kind of expected the worst,” said Gary Gardner, engineering division chief at the NC Wildlife Resources Commission. “But when the water went down, everything was still there. We try to make these sites bulletproof—to withstand big flood events and keep them lasting.”
That resilience is an essential component of any new construction project in western North Carolina–especially when building along the river. With in-house surveyors, local construction crews, and extensive experience working with fluctuating river systems, the NC Wildlife Resources Commission has earned a reputation for infrastructure that can weather the storm. Gray’s Road and Coxe Road—two of the first sites built on the trail—also came through Hurricane Helene with no major damage.
This is part of a larger commitment from Rutherford Bound to resilience and revitalization—seen not only on the Broad River, but in ongoing efforts in Chimney Rock Village following Hurricane Helene.
Collaboration at Work
The Broad River Paddle Trail is the result of years of planning, advocacy, and collaboration among public, private, and nonprofit partners. Each organization brought a unique contribution to the table:
- Duke Energy donated the land for the US-221A site and contributed funding through the Duke Energy Foundation.
- RHI Legacy Foundation awarded grant funding to support site construction and improvements.
- NC Department of Environmental Quality and the Recreational Trails Program provided additional grant support.
- NC Wildlife Resources Commission designed, built, and will maintain the access points.
- NC Department of Transportation provided public access through their right of way at the US-221 site.
- Rutherford Outdoor Coalition laid the groundwork through years of river clean-ups and community engagement.
- Destination by Design led project development and design, managed fundraising, and supported public engagement efforts.
Together, these organizations share a belief in the Broad River as a community asset—one that inspires connection, fosters wellness, and invites ongoing care and stewardship.
Connected by the Broad
With four access points now complete, the Broad River Paddle Trail is open for adventure. It’s an invitation to reconnect: with nature, with each other, and with what makes Rutherford County special.
“This project started as a vision of what could be—and it took years of hard work to get here,” said Donnie Haulk, County Commissioner. “We have a community of people who care deeply about quality of life in Rutherford County—not just for today, but for the generations to come.”
Paddle the Broad
Grab your paddle, load up the family, and enjoy a float on the Broad. Whether you’re in it for the fishing, the scenery, or the thrill of trying something new, the river is ready—and waiting.
Learn more about the paddle trail and other outdoor projects across the county at www.rutherfordbound.com.
