Harrison Recreational Trails champions the creation and growth of a vibrant trail network in Harrison County, West Virginia.
Purpose statement — The purpose of Harrison Recreational Trails, Inc. is to assist in the promotion, advocacy, development, improvement, maintenance, and connectivity of appropriate non-motorized trails in Harrison County, West Virginia. HRT seeks to use trails and outdoor recreation as a tool to create and promote opportunities for education, recreation, tourism, community development, economic development, historic preservation, commuting, physical fitness, and environmental conservation. (Link to full HRT bylaws)
Description of “non-motorized trails” — Harrison Recreational Trails defines non-motorized trails as including, but not limited to, rail-trails, water trails, mountain bike trails, primitive trails, running trails, equestrian trails, and accessible trails.
Board meeting schedule — The Harrison Recreational Trails Board of Directors meets on the fourth Wednesday of the month at 4:30 pm, March through October. The Board does not meet in July. Meeting location for 2025 yet to be determined
BENEFITS OF TRAILS:
Trails enhance our quality of life in so many ways. Here are just a few:
Health — Trails provide very affordable access to outdoor recreation and exercise. Whether walking, running, biking, cross-country skiing, or paddling, trail users’ physical and mental health will benefit. Being outdoors and regularly immersing oneself in nature has been shown to result in a better quality of life.
Community Development — Trail advocates will often say that the reason they love trails is because of what they do for communities. In some communities, the rail-trail that runs through downtown becomes the new “Main Street”, where people regularly see and speak with their neighbors. Trails are often near the top of the lists of what makes an attractive community. And trails connect communities and neighborhoods within communities — they are non-partisan. They are not red or blue, liberal or conservative. Instead, they simply bring people together.
Economic Development — Studies have shown trails to be true economic development drivers. Trails bring visitors and those visitors spend money. But more important are the long-term economic development impacts — trails make communities more attractive places to live and do business. Access to trails is one of the top amenities families are seeking in deciding where they want to live. Trails are effective tools for recruiting families and small businesses.
Tree down across the trail? Washout? Suggested trail improvements? Let us know!
Harrison Recreational Trails 