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Certified Forest Therapy Trails: Healing Pathways
How to Certify a Trail, Space, or Place?
How to Certify a Trail, Space, or Place?
As an ANFT (Association of Nature & Forest Therapy) Certification Consultant, I perform on site evaluations and assessments, focusing on ecosytem health, infrastructure and design, ease of access and management. Photo and video documentation is provided along with recommendations. Please contact me for more information and to set up an initial meeting to discuss possibilities.
As an ANFT (Association of Nature & Forest Therapy) Certification Consultant, I perform on site evaluations and assessments, focusing on ecosytem health, infrastructure and design, ease of access and management. Photo and video documentation is provided along with recommendations. Please contact me for more information and to set up an initial meeting to discuss possibilities.
Jackson County Greenway: First All Accessible Certified Forest Therapy Trail
Jackson County Greenway: First All Accessible Certified Forest Therapy Trail
On December 6, 2025, the Grand Opening Celebration was held to recognize the Jackson County Greenway as the first *ALL* Accessible Certified Forest Therapy Trail in NC and the US. Thank you to the Friends of Jackson County Greenways and the Jackson County Parks & Recreation Department for their support!
Check out the video of the grand opening to the left.
Jackon County Greenway Certified Forest Therapy Trail Video Interview with Debby Singleton
Jackon County Greenway Certified Forest Therapy Trail Video Interview with Debby Singleton
Jackson County Greenway: Self-Guided Forest Therapy Trail Brochure & Programs
Jackson County Greenway: Self-Guided Forest Therapy Trail Brochure & Programs
Self-guided brochures are offered at each trailhead on the Greenway. A digital copy can be found at the Friends of Jackson County Greenways website. https://www.friendsofjacksoncountygreenways.org/foresttherapy
Guided program are offered throughout the year by the Jackson County Parks & Recreation Department and Friends of Jackson County Greenways.
Coming Soon!
Coming Soon!
PBS of North Carolina: 10 to Try off the Blue Ridge
Airing August 27, 2026
Check out the news articles and press releases for the Jackson County Greenway Certified Forest Therapy Trail:
The Laurel of Asheville
"Outdoors: Jackson County's Certified Therapy Trails invite a healthy connection of body and mind to nature."
February 2026
By Gina Malone
Matador Network
"You don't need to go to Japan to Forest Bathe. Just head to North Carolina."
April 22, 2026
By Kayla Brock
https://matadornetwork.com/read/north-carolina-forest-bathing/
Travel & Leisure
"I've lived in the Carolinas for 30+ years and this is my favorite small town- with a charming downtown and mountain views."
March 14, 2026
By Kristin Tolley
https://www.travelandleisure.com/guide-sylva-north-carolina-11925309
NY Times
"How to create your own affordable wellness vacation."
March 10, 2026
https://www.nytimes.com/2026/03/10/travel/affordable-wellness-vacations.html
Azure Road
"The Adventure: Forest Bathing in Jackson County NC."
January 13, 2026
By Lauren Mowery
https://www.azureroad.io/forest-bathing-in-north-carolina/
Smoky Mountain News
“Time with nature: Retired professor brings forest therapy to Jackson County”
Tuesday, November 25, 2025
Sylva Herald & Ruralite
“Enjoy a relaxing bath with your clothes on”
Tuesday, November 25, 2025
Jackson County Tourism Development Authority Video: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/MDocBrda7MU
What is Forest Therapy?
What is Forest Therapy?
Forest Therapy also known as Forest Bathing or Shinrin-yoku (as it is known in Japan) is a sensory immersion experience in the ambience of the forest. You walk slowly, stop and observe, sit quietly, and notice things. Forest bathing is not the same thing as hiking. The pace is slow, not fast. The focus is on connection and relationship with the natural space around you.
What is a Certified Forest Therapy Trail?
What is a Certified Forest Therapy Trail?
Certified forest therapy trails are designated pathways within natural environments that are intentionally designed and maintained to facilitate experiences of healing and wellness through interaction with nature.
Benefits of Certified Trails?
Benefits of Certified Trails?
Certified forest therapy trails offer numerous benefits such as stress reduction, improved mental well-being, physical health enhancement, and deep connection with nature and our environment.
Association of Nature & Forest Therapy: Trails-Spaces-Places Certification
https://anft.earth/certify-your-trail/
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