By Kristen George

FAIRFIELD COUNTY — From the Top of the World scenic overlook, everything seems peaceful. Graceful birds glide between lush, green trees under a sapphire sky. A warm breeze delivers the sweet scent of a Carolina spring. For as far as the eye can see, nature persists far away from the hustle and bustle of city living.

And yet, just a few paces away from this scenic lookout that forms the apex of South Carolina’s newest attraction, Carolina Adventure World, the atmosphere is anything but peaceful. From the distinct buzz of dirt bikes whizzing down muddy trails and the deliberate clanking and pounding of new construction, to the exhilarated conversations between business owners and officials working diligently to prepare for the most exciting grand opening in Fairfield County’s history, there’s not a moment of tranquility for anyone involved in this massive project.

Carolina Adventure World near Winnsboro opens its doors to the public today to kick off a three-day celebration that has been nearly three years in the making. More than 100 miles of trails weave through the 2,600 wooded acres that make up the park. All-terrain vehicle, or ATV, enthusiasts and first-time riders alike will enjoy the park, which features trails of all different levels, ranging from the beginner green nature trails that focus more on sightseeing than thrill riding to the black diamond trails that challenge even the most experienced riders with steep hills and tight curves.

In addition, the park offers a full-scale Motocross area designed by Dirt Wurx USA, which features three different courses including a Championship Motocross course that will be home of the World Powersports Association’s Grand National Championships on Sept. 15-16. The PowerSports ATV Championship Tour, North America’s premier professional ATV racing series, will broadcast live from Carolina Adventure World on ESPN2 on Sept. 28.