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Trail by trail, North Carolina is weaving a network of connections that transforms how we move, gather, and experience our communities. The Ecusta Trail stands as a prime example—a visionary 20-mile rail-to-trail corridor that will soon link Hendersonville to Brevard along a historic railroad line that once united these mountain towns.

Joan Lyons and Emma Pindur, engineers with JMT, bring complementary perspectives to this transformative work. Joan studied in the Netherlands, learning from world-class cycling infrastructure before bringing those insights home. Emma, who grew up in Cherokee, brings deep local knowledge and a personal connection to the region's trails. Together, they're designing pathways that reflect the diverse needs of the communities they serve while honoring the landscape's natural beauty.

The impact is already visible—bike shops report surges in business as residents dust off long-forgotten bicycles. Families, seniors, and visitors alike are discovering safer, more accessible ways to explore. These trails are particularly vital for aging populations and those unable to drive, providing critical independence while simultaneously boosting local economies through increased tourism and community vitality.

Mike Andress
Host, Exploration Local
828-551-9065
mike@explorationlocal.com

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I'm redefining what adventure means after discovering the joy of exploring greenways and rail trails. From Colorado's Aspen-lined paths to Kentucky's riverside greenways, these accessible trails have transformed my understanding of meaningful outdoor experiences.

• Experiencing the beauty of Breckenridge to Frisco on e-bikes amid golden Aspens
• Discovering the Big Four Bridge and Ohio River Greenway during a Kentucky business trip
• Seeing people of all ages and abilities enjoying the outdoors together on accessible trails
• Exploring the Brevard Greenway and Thermal Belt Trail in North Carolina with my wife
• Finding that adventure isn't always about conquering mountains—sometimes it's about connection
• Looking forward to upcoming trails like the Ecusta Trail and sections of the East Coast Greenway

Send me a voice memo, message me on Instagram or Facebook, or email mike@explorationlocal.com to share your favorite trail experiences. Your story might inspire others to redefine what adventure means to them.

Mike Andress
Host, Exploration Local
828-551-9065
mike@explorationlocal.com

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Instagram: explorationlocal

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Every region has its stories, but few places weave storytelling into their cultural fabric quite like Appalachia. Bob Peck, the visionary behind Mountainwater Films, has dedicated himself to capturing these narratives through a lens that prioritizes authenticity above all else.

When Hurricane Helene devastated much of Western North Carolina, Bob's storytelling took on new urgency. Through his documentary approach, he helped businesses like Asheville Tea Company—whose entire operation was washed downstream—process their experiences while inviting customers back through powerful visual storytelling. His work in communities from Old Fort to Lake Lure demonstrates how film can simultaneously educate, inspire, and market in ways that honor the recovery process.

What emerges most clearly is Bob's commitment to sustainable storytelling that connects "nuanced visitors" with authentic experiences while benefiting local communities. In a time when many places struggle with overtourism, his work aims to attract people who will appreciate and respect the true character of Appalachia, ensuring these communities and their stories continue to thrive for generations to come.

Want to explore more of Appalachia's authentic stories? Follow Mountainwater Films on social media or reach out to Bob directly to discover how documentary storytelling can preserve heritage while building bridges to the future.

Mike Andress
Host, Exploration Local
828-551-9065
mike@explorationlocal.com

Podcast Website
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Instagram: explorationlocal