2023 is North Carolina’s Year of the Trail, and Moore County is commemorating the occasion through the Pinecone Pathways program.

Year of the Trail was created to highlight the importance of trails, greenways of blueways across this great state. Goals of the program include educating people of all backgrounds, inspiring outdoor recreation, and promoting diversity and inclusion along the trails.

Set in Pinehurst, Southern Pines, and Aberdeen, the Pinecone Pathways initiative encourages residents to get outside and discover. The Convention & Visitors Bureau has teamed up with Starworks in Star, NC to create 100 unique glass pinecones. Each colorful glass pinecone is hidden somewhere along a trail in Moore County.

You can follow along on their social media pages to stay up-to-date on which trails you can find these beautiful pinecones each week, along with local businesses where you can receive more specific clues!

If you happen to find one of these glass blown pinecones, you can scan the included QR code for a chance to win a two-night stay in Pinehurst and a $250 gift card.

So hit the trails for the Pinecone Pathways program if you’re in the Pinehurst area and be on the lookout for the elusive colored pinecones. While you’re out and about, check out one of our favorite restaurants in the area for a delicious bite to eat.