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The Town of Mars Hill held a ribbon cutting in October to celebrate the newest improvements at Smith Farm Park, an important milestone in the community’s ongoing effort to protect local heritage while expanding access to outdoor recreation.
Funding from the Pigeon River Fund and the North Carolina Parks and Recreation Authority supported trail upgrades, water quality improvements, and new park amenities. Community organizations, including the Rotary Club of Madison County and the Appalachian Barn Alliance, also contributed to the effort, helping to create an accessible and welcoming space for residents and visitors.
The celebration highlighted newly restored historic barns, ADA-accessible trails and walkways, upgraded restrooms, picnic areas, and a new outdoor amphitheater, all designed to enhance the public’s experience of the site’s natural and cultural landscape. The barns at Smith Farm have long been a focal point of the property, reflecting the agricultural history of Madison County.
WithersRavenel worked with the Town to develop the Smith Farm Master Plan, which guided the improvements celebrated during the ribbon cutting. The plan honors the property’s history and natural features while expanding opportunities for passive recreation, education, and community events. The first phase of implementation focused on restored barns, accessible trails, and gathering spaces, with future phases slated to include playground amenities, boardwalk stream crossings, additional picnic shelters, and enhanced park access.
The continued transformation of Smith Farm Park complements the Town’s broader vision to expand nearby Bailey Mountain Park and the Bailey Mountain Preserve. When complete, the combined open space network will offer residents and visitors access to a significant portion of Bailey Mountain, creating a connected, nature-focused recreation destination in the heart of Madison County.
