we’re BUILDING COMMUNITY

one trail at a time

what we do

Resilient Trails Network is a 100% volunteer-run nonprofit with a mission to help communities fund, design, build, and maintain high-quality trails that showcase the natural beauty, history, and character of the region.

why we do it

Well-designed trail systems strengthen local economies, encourage outdoor recreation, and provide lasting benefits to residents and visitors.

Our vision

We believe in expanding opportunities for outdoor recreation, ensuring that public spaces are accessible, welcoming, and designed with long-term sustainability in mind.

Our trails are more than just pathways; they help communities attract tourism, strengthen local economies, and preserve the natural environment for future generations.

Since 2024

$500,000 pending trail grants

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209 students on nature trails

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175 volunteer hours on trails

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8 miles of trail designed

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$500,000 pending trail grants * 209 students on nature trails * 175 volunteer hours on trails * 8 miles of trail designed *

  • building what we believe in

    From trail planning to on-the-ground builds, our projects reconnect people to land, history, and community. Whether we're helping a town shape its vision or flagging a new route through the woods, this is where our work takes root.

    Explore Projects

  • Trails K12: Where Learning Steps Outside

    These trails run through schoolyards, forests, and imaginations. We build them—so students can explore, learn, and connect with the world beyond the classroom. From science and art to storytelling and stewardship, Trails K12 creates space for young people to grow their sense of place.

    visit trails k12

  • Signal Fires: Notes from the Trail’s Edge

    This is where we say what’s hard to say in a grant report. Signal Fires shares the behind-the-scenes truth of trail work—what’s working, what’s not, and what keeps us showing up. If you’ve ever built something from scratch, you’ll recognize the terrain.

    read signal fires

we’re powered 100% by volunteers

  • Valencia Abbott, Board of Directors

    Educator, Rockingham County Schools

  • ShLanda Burton, Chair, Board of Directors

    Registered Nutrition & Dietetic Profess, Advanced Certified Birth Doula, Mentor, Trainer & Consultant

  • Jenny Edwards, Director & Founder

    In addition to RTN, Jenny is Executive Director, Rockingham County Arts Council

  • Dean Franco, PhD, Board of Directors

    Wake Forest University, Professor of Literature

  • Harlan Gradin, PHD, Board of Directors

    North Carolina Humanities Scholar Emeritus

  • Katrina Harrison, Secretary, Board of Directors

    The Last Dons, Founder, Rockingham County

  • Lindsay Pegg, Board of Directors

    Tourism Manager, Rockingham County

  • Sayrd Price, Board of Directors

    Educator, Stokes County Schools

  • Steven Pulliam, Board of Directors

    Dan River Keeper, Rockingham County

  • Rhonda Stephens, Treasurer, Board of Directors

    Educator, Alamance County