0325-GCG-FoothillsConservancy_ESG25_12-18 (2) - Flipbook - Page 30
Bob Benner
Memorial Trail
with volunteers to build a trail that would become
the 昀椀rst public access point at the Conservancy’s
1,900-acre preserve adjoining South Mountains State
Park. Together, staff and volunteers created a 1.3-mile
A trail is more than a pathway from one place to
another. It’s a place where we anchor memories, 昀椀nd
peace, and gather together as a community. The
route with sweeping views of the South Mountains.
The trail was completed and dedicated—with Bob in
attendance—shortly before he passed away.
Bob Benner Memorial Trail at FCNC’s South Mountains
Because the trail was fast-tracked, some elements
Headwaters Preserve is one such place.
were left un昀椀nished, including the formal parking area.
Named for the late Bob Benner—author, teacher,
environmentalist, hiker, paddler, climber, husband,
and father—the trail honors an in昀氀uential 昀椀gure
whose life’s work shaped outdoor recreation in North
Then the pandemic paused progress and the trail
waited for its 昀椀nal touches. In 2024, FCNC staff revived
the effort, navigated the permitting process, and
completed the trailhead.
Carolina. Bob wrote much beloved guidebooks with
Five years after the initial dedication, FCNC gathered
his son, David, founded organizations, maintained
the community once again to rededicate the trail and
trails, taught students of all ages, trained instructors
celebrate Bob’s enduring legacy. The small parking
for the American Canoe Association and American
area over昀氀owed as family, friends, and supporters
Red Cross, and inspired countless people to discover
arrived, some shuttled in from down the road. The
the outdoors.
crowd re昀氀ected the magnitude of Bob’s impact and
Bob belonged outside, and he showed others that they
belonged there too.
When Bob was diagnosed with ALS in 2019, the
community looked for a way to honor him while he
could still join in the celebration. FCNC partnered
24
the love he inspired.
Bob Benner may be gone, but the trail that bears his
name continues his message: step outside, take the
leap, and let nature show you what’s possible.
