As designated in the 2021 state budget, the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) is developing a Moonshine and Motorsports Trail to highlight the state’s unique history. Distilling grew out of the state’s rich agricultural and social history and auto racing in North Carolina has grown from occasional competitions among speedhungry moonshiners during the 1930s to a multibillion- dollar industry that attracts legions of devoted followers across the nation and world. The Moonshine and Motorsports Trail will instill a sense of pride and ownership and drive economic development, particularly in rural communities and will be a resource for cultural and tourism institutions across the state.
“In addition to being an economic engine, motorsports are an important part of North Carolina history and culture, The Department of Natural and Cultural Resources is excited to announce that the Moonshine and Motorsports Trail will launch in 2023 to help celebrate the rich and diverse history of distilling and racing in our state. The trail aims to drive tourism and benefit local economies across the state, particularly in smaller communities.”
What is it?
The trail will provide a variety of travel itineraries between historic locations, natural areas and racetracks across the state and engage with rich media and exhibits that tell the story of North Carolina Moonshine and Motorsports. Deliverables will include 1 traveling exhibit that will travel across the state, informational markers at locations across the state, an educational website, and rich media including videos, a podcast, playlist, and programming, and curated educational resources for public use.
Which Locations are Included on the Trail?
Phase 1: 8 locations recognized in 2023.
NASCAR Hall of Fame and Museum
North Wilkesboro Speedway
Charlotte Motor Speedway
NC Museum of History
Stone Mountain State Park
Historic Occoneechee Speedway Trail
Rockingham Speedway
Museum of the Albemarle
Staff Contact
Karl Galloway (Digital Marketing Manager)
karl.galloway@ncdcr.gov 828-407-7734
Catherine Swain (DNCR Marketing Director)
Catherine.Swain@ncdcr.gov
919-814-6651