CLAY COUNTY COMMUNITIES REVITALIZATION ASSOCIATION

CCCRA's Trails and Greenways program develops and promotes a county-wide system of trails and greenways that encourages tourism while protecting the natural environment. The principal focus to-date has been developing the Jackrabbit Mountain Trail System (JMTS), in cooperation and collaboration with the USFS and The Southern Appalachian Bicycle Association (SABA). In addition to the trail infrastructure, there is a parking lot, bike-maintenance and bike-wash stations, information board, covered bridge, picnic area and picnic shelter. 

 

Over 21 miles of machine-constructed, shared-use, high-quality mountain biking and hiking trails (along with the existing 2-mile hiking-only trail) make up the JMTS. The stacked-loop trail design gives the trail user a choice of trails to hike or bike based on skill level or time allotment. The original 15 miles of trails are bi-directional, while the newer Rabbit Ridge trail is directional for both hikers and bikers based on the day of the week. This is for safety reasons as the trail is more advanced with more climbing, banked turns, rock gardens, jumps and drops. 

 

Many of the trails border Lake Chatuge, while others meander through the woods or ridgetop. These trails are specifically designed to appeal to all skill levels, beginner to advanced. Plant identification signs make for an informative nature hike with family and friends.

 

The JMTS was made possible by grants secured from the NC Parks Recreational Trails Program, The Goldenleaf Foundation, Handmade in America, Resourceful Communities Creating New Economies Fund (CNEF), Blue Ridge Heritage Foundation, and a multitude of fundraising efforts and donations from our community.​

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