10/28/25

Jackson County Greenway Obtains Certified Forest Therapy Trail Status
Grand Opening planned for Saturday, December 6, 2025, at 1 pm

Sylva, NC – October 28, 2025 - The Jackson County Greenway has been recognized as the first All Accessible Certified Forest Therapy Trail in the US. Endorsed by the Association of Nature & Forest Therapy, the Jackson County Greenway offers a paved pathway and gentle terrain, which together provide a unique opportunity for visitors to enjoy being outside, to pause and rest at the many benches along the trail, and to reflect and connect with nature.

Jackson County now has the special distinction of being home to two certified forest therapy trails; the other being the popular lower loop trail at Pinnacle Park.

The Jackson County Greenway is a very user-friendly location to experience forest therapy. Self-guided brochures will be located at the Locust Creek and Monteith Branch trailheads. Users can also find the self-guided brochures HERE.

A Grand Opening Celebration will take place on Saturday, December 6, 2025, beginning at 1:00 pm at the Locust Creek Trailhead (adjacent to the pedestrian bridge), in Sylva, NC. The event will include:
• A brief recognition and dedication ceremony
• Light refreshments
• An opportunity to explore the Greenway as a certified forest therapy trail