The 7.2 mile trail collected 1,259 votes over the course of the contest, which is sponsored by the American Planning Association's North Carolina chapter. Its nearest competitor, a trail in Transylvania County, collected 1,068 votes.

“It's something our community should be proud of,” said Roanoke Rapids Planning and Development Director Kelly Lasky. “The trail deserves this recognition across the state.”

Lasky nominated the trail, which ended up being one of the six finalists, competing with trails in Charlotte, Raleigh and Durham.

She and Randall Spence, cultural resources leader for the Roanoke Canal Museum, wrote the description for the contest.

“The trail is one of those places we take people whenever they come down,” Lasky said. “It has everything and it makes me appreciate living here even more.”

From a planning perspective, she said, “Walking trails are one of the top desired facilities in communities.The history, its uses for exercise, the water and river make us unique.”

Parks and Recreation Director John Simeon was pleased with final tally. “I think it speaks volumes for the support of the Canal Trail and what it means to the community here in Roanoke Rapids. This award is a nice tribute for the entities involved with the trail such as tourism, the Canal Commission and the Canal Advisory Board and the members of the community who have dedicated their time and effort to make this canal trail come to fruition.”

While there is no monetary award from the contest, Simeon sees benefits from the title. “Moving forward I perceive this will benefit us when we seek grant opportunities for the Canal Trail. It will allow us to show input from the community on the value of the Canal Trail in our community.”

Simeon said city administration will discuss opportunities to recognize the title and share that with the community. “Hopefully this special recognition will take place in the very near future.”