Database Actions:

National Recreation Trail Application

Introduction

National Recreation Trails (NRTs) form an important part of the National Trails System. They are not created through Congressional action, but are recognized by Federal secretarial action. Trails associated with the USDA Forest Service are recognized by the appropriate Regional Forester in that agency. All other nominated trails are approved and recognized by the Secretary of the Interior.

Prairie Restoration Art Project along Paint Creek Trail
(Click for details)

To be recognized as an NRT, a trail or trail system must be in place and open to the public. The trail’s manager(s) must be able to certify that it will be open for public use for at least the next 10 years. The trail should be designed, constructed, and maintained according to best management practices (in keeping with the trail’s uses). The trail must comply with all applicable land use plans and environmental laws. In addition, all public and private landowners whose property is crossed by the trail must have been notified about this nomination and must provide written consent to accompany this application.

American Trails, a nationwide nonprofit trails group based in California, maintains the official NRT website and web-accessible database. The benefits of becoming an NRT are numerous – the prestige of being part of the National Trails System, heightened promotion and visibility, a reward for concerted citizen action, and increased eligibility for project funding.

Upon designation, the information you provide in the following application may be used to set up the NRT web page for your trail. To view existing NRT web pages, please visit the NRT website, www.americantrails.org/nationalrecreationtrails. Thank you for your interest in the National Recreation Trail (NRT) program.

See more information on how to nominate your trail for NRT designation

The on-line database has details on the currently designated National Recreation Trails. The NRT Program online is hosted by American Trails: www.AmericanTrails.org

The NTTP Online Calendar connects you with courses, conferences, and trail-related training

Promote your trail through the National Recreation Trails Program

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