About

The Burke River Trail Association, a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofit corporation, supports the planning, development and building of the Burke River Trail, which will generate economic activity, provide bike and pedestrian transportation, and improve citizen health in Burke County.

In short, BRTA is about Connecting Communities for economic impact and exceptional quality of life.

BRTA’s Three Focus Areas

  • Connections – Physically get trail on the ground to connect communities
  • Communities – Build stronger communities through economic development and civic engagement
  • Conservation – Educate communities about the environment, wildlife and recreating responsibility

Learn about the BRTA Board Members.

Beth Heile, Executive Director
Spearheading the 300-acre land acquisition for a passive park in her hometown, propelled Beth into recognition across the state as she was appointed to the NC Parks and Recreation Authority Board. She is working with the NC Great Trails State Coalition to lobby for state funding for trails across the state and also serves as President of Friends of the Valdese Rec.

BRTA was founded in May 2021 by Beth Heile.