If you’ve spent any time in Elkin, chances are you’ve crossed paths with Logan Haynes. Whether he’s helping out behind the scenes at Explore Elkin events, managing properties for G&B, or out on the trails with Watershed NOW, Logan’s the kind of guy who’s always lending a hand—and doing it with a laid-back smile. He’s a proud member of Rotary, a driving force behind NC Trail Days and Earth to Elkin, and a true believer in building community through outdoor adventure and good music. (Bonus points if it’s a jam band.) Passionate, dependable, and effortlessly chill—Logan’s one of the many people who make Elkin feel like home.
Rooted in the Community
Logan’s story is one that’s deeply connected to the Elkin area. Originally from Yadkin County, Logan considers Elkin his home—having spent his school years as a proud Buckin’ Elk. After graduating high school, Logan’s passion for nature and community led him to study at NC State University (Go Pack!) and Colorado State University (Go Rams!). His journey took him across the country, from conservation work with the US Forest Service in Northern California to environmental education on North Carolina’s Crystal Coast. But Elkin’s grassroots spirit and strong sense of community eventually called him back home.
A Passion for the Outdoors
As a self-proclaimed nature boy, Logan’s love for the outdoors is central to his life and work. He’s committed to promoting outdoor experiences and conservation in Elkin, whether through his role as Community Projects and Events Coordinator at Explore Elkin or his involvement with NC Trail Days and Watershed NOW. Logan sees Elkin as a town that blends pride in its past with a forward-thinking approach to outdoor adventure and community engagement.
Community Spirit and Collaboration
Logan is passionate about building community through outdoor experiences and believes that Elkin’s unique charm comes from the collaboration and dedication of its residents. Whether it’s local businesses supporting each other or volunteers showing up to improve the trails, Logan knows that Elkin thrives on a spirit of cooperation, not competition.
Memories and Mentors
One of Logan’s earliest memories of contributing to Elkin’s trail system came during his time at NC State, when he assisted the Elkin Valley Trails Association in expanding the Elkin & Alleghany Rail Trail. This project was more than an academic assignment—it marked the beginning of his mentorship with Dr. Bill Blackley, whose encouragement and guidance continue to inspire Logan’s work today.
Exploring Elkin
When Logan’s not coordinating events or leading trail initiatives, you can find him enjoying Elkin’s natural beauty with his dog, River. He loves walking the trails, hanging at the RailYard, birdwatching along Big Elkin Creek and Grassy Creek, exploring stretches of the Yadkin River, or sharing ideas with friends at Fruition. A fan of good food and good company, Logan’s go-to spot for next-level Thai cuisine is Prime Thai.
Logan Haynes is a true reflection of Elkin’s spirit—laid-back, community-driven, and always up for an adventure. His passion for connecting people to the outdoors and his dedication to making Elkin even better are why we’re proud to feature him as one of the faces of our town.