Preserving the Pisgah Magic: The Next Chapter with PAS’ New Board President
Pisgah National Forest has always held a special place in my heart. Growing up in North Carolina, my first grind up Clawhammer Road was when I was 12 years old, and I still have memories of my second Pisgah experience - getting caught in a torrential downpour the first time I rode Daniel Ridge, rounding off a challenging and unforgettable ride. Experiences such as these and countless other remarkable days in the forest between the Asheville and Brevard area have shaped my connection to this special land. For me and many others, Pisgah isn’t just a collection of trails but a repository of life-defining firsts and cherished memories.
I’m fortunate to have had the opportunity to ride bikes in countless communities over the years, often as part of my work, yet I’ve always returned to Pisgah and known it as my ‘home.’ Together with many of you, I’ve observed its transformation from a hidden gem in Western NC to a globally recognized destination for trail riding and outdoor adventure. This journey has brought both remarkable developments and challenges.
The mission of PAS, while ever-evolving, remains anchored in its core principles - to preserve mountain biking opportunities by maintaining and improving trail systems in the Pisgah Ranger District and the surrounding region. This mission, seemingly straightforward, is actually quite complex yet completely attainable through community collaboration.
In the past three years, I’ve volunteered with Pisgah Area SORBA, first as a Vice President and then as a member at large. Now, having the opportunity to step into the role of President is an honor and a privilege that I’m grateful for. The growth within PAS in the last few years has been remarkable and necessary to meet the challenges presented by the incredible surge in mountain biking and outdoor recreation in our area. Thanks to the solid groundwork laid by our past volunteers, PAS is positioned to advance its mission with greater competence, professionalism, and capability than ever before.
Volunteering is a cornerstone of our progress; countless people have volunteered with PAS over the years. Many have contributed by working on the trail and bringing our shared mission to life; some, including myself, have contributed through administrative roles on the Board of Directors. Craig Ruhland exemplifies volunteerism with PAS and has done both. In his years serving as Vice President and then President, Craig’s contributions have been monumental and countless both in his organizational leadership and his work on trails.
Craig’s leadership created the solid foundation that inspired me to step into this role. Our long-time Vice President Doug Miller aptly described Craig as a ‘connector trail,’ a perfect metaphor for his ability to bring together individuals, organizations, and the community. Under Craig’s guidance, significant milestones have been reached: PAS has strengthened its relationship with land managers, completed Richmond Hill Bike Park, and planned and executed multiple major trail projects in Pisgah National Forest. All of this is the culmination of a strong volunteer base and assembling a skilled Board of Directors. Craig, alongside Doug, also spearheaded the hiring of Natalie Narburgh as our first full-time Executive Director.
Craig leaves behind a lasting legacy, setting a high standard for what can be achieved. With the structures and momentum he’s initiated, I’m eager to lead PAS and trail advocacy in Western NC into the future. I’m also pleased to say that Craig will still be involved with the Board and co-chairing the Trails Committee with Tyler Donaldson.
To everyone who shares our passion for mountain biking, trail advocacy, and Pisgah, whether you’re a member of PAS or not, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks. The trails here are truly unique and special, and it’s the people who care about them and steward for them who will keep them that way. If you’re looking to get involved with PAS, have questions, or simply wish to say hello, please feel free to reach out to me, Natalie, or any Board member. Together we are committed to preserving the magic of mountain biking in Pisgah for future generations. Your support and stoke are invaluable!
— Daniel Sapp
