CNPC Executive Director Brittany Jones shares an inside look at our new trail project at Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. She explains why now is the perfect time to expand and improve the trail system, why these specific trails were chosen, and what visitors can expect once they’re complete. From sustainable design to thoughtful planning, Brittany highlights how CNPC is creating trails that protect the land, enhance the park experience, and ensure these spaces can be enjoyed for generations to come.

Join CNPC Executive Director Brittany as she walks a brand-new trail under construction with Aaron from Tailored Trails, our expert trail builder. They dive into the careful balance involved in trail design and how to protect and restore the land while also creating a safe, enjoyable experience for visitors. This behind-the-scenes look shows how every decision, from route planning to construction techniques, considers both the needs of the environment and the people who will use the trail.

Meet Mary, a daily visitor at Island Ford who views these trails as a place to breathe deeply and step away from the stress of everyday life. Like so many in our community, she finds peace here among the trees, by the river, and in the simple rhythm of walking the trail. Over time, she’s become a familiar face at the Island Ford Visitor Center and to the CNPC team, and part of the community that makes this park feel like home.

That’s why trail improvements at Island Ford matter so much. Restored trails will protect this special landscape, make it safer and more welcoming, and ensure that everyone in our community — from longtime visitors like Mary to first-time explorers — can find their own moments of peace and connection.

Join Brittany as she explains the purpose behind trail closures and reroutes at Island Ford. From protecting sensitive landscapes to improving safety and long-term sustainability, Brittany shares why these temporary changes are an important part of creating a better trail experience for visitors and a healthier future for the park. This behind-the-scenes look at one section of trail explores how new trail construction is carefully planned and built with both environmental stewardship and visitor enjoyment in mind.

Join CNPC’s Marketing & Membership Manager, Erin Tallent, as she shares an overview of the updated trail signage coming to Island Ford as this exciting project comes to a conclusion. From updated map posts to new wayfinding signage featuring official trail names, these improvements are designed to help visitors navigate the park more confidently and enjoy a more connected trail experience. Erin also highlights the new QR codes placed throughout the unit, allowing visitors to easily access the trail map from wherever they are in the park. This behind-the-scenes look explores how thoughtful signage and navigation tools can improve safety, accessibility, and the overall visitor experience while supporting the future of the park’s trail system.

Join Brittany for a behind-the-scenes look at the new trailhead construction taking shape adjacent to the Island Ford Visitor Center. Designed to address erosion and improve the overall visitor experience, the updated trailhead will feature more sustainable access to the trail system, including improved grading and new timber steps. Brittany shares how this final phase of the Island Ford Trails Plan project is helping create a safer, more resilient, and more welcoming starting point for visitors exploring the park.