National Trails System

National Trails System

President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the National Trails System Act into law on October 2, 1968. Specifically, the enacted federal law authorized the creation of three types of trails: the National Scenic Trails, National Recreation Trails and Connecting-and-Side Trails. In 1978, a fourth category of trail was added: the National Historic Trails.

The National Trails System is a network of scenic, historic, and recreation trails that provide for outdoor recreation needs, promote the enjoyment, appreciation, and preservation of open-air, outdoor areas and historic resources, and encourage public access and citizen involvement.

Today, the National Trails System includes 11 national scenic trails, 19 national historic trails, more than 1,200 national recreation trails (NRTs), and six connecting and side trails. Together the 30 scenic and historic trails now total almost 54,000 miles in combined lengths. The National Recreation Trails are officially recognized by the Secretary of the Interior (and in the USDA Forest Service by regional foresters) and can be found in all 50 States, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. In 2018, the National Trails System will be 50 years old.

Traveling a National Trail brings you into direct contact with adventure, community, and nature. The National Trails System embodies many strands of America's natural, historic, and cultural heritage. On Scenic, Historic, and Recreation Trails you experience the great diversity of landscapes and ecosystems. Historic trails enable you to experience the rich tapestry of cultures and peoples that comprise our Nation and the many stories of pioneer travel, exploration, and struggles for civil and religious freedom that shaped our history.

For further information, please visit the links below.