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published Dec 2019

FAQ: How to designate your trail as a National Recreational Trail.

The NRT program works to preserve and celebrate our nation's pathways. Here's an overview of how to apply for NRT designation.


published Sep 2019

Why YOU Should Submit Your Trail for National Recreation Trail (NRT) Designation

by Taylor Goodrich with American Trails

Find out more about the National Recreation Trail program and the steps needed to apply.


published Feb 2019

National Trails System Reference Manual 45

by National Park Service

This document is designed for National Trails System partners: Federal trail administrators, local land managers and landowners, volunteer partners, and State and Tribal agencies. It focuses on America’s national scenic and historic trails with only brief mention of national recreation trails and connecting-and-side trails. It provides background to Director’s Order #45, National Trails System (see Section 2.6).


published Dec 2018

FAQ: How does a trail get recognized as a National Scenic Trail?

National Scenic Trail designation is a rare and prestigious achievement that has been awarded only 11 times since 1966.


published Apr 2017

What’s a National Recreation Trail?

by American Trails Staff

From ancient waterways to old rail lines, National Recreation Trails are all about moving outdoor experiences.


published Feb 2011

FAQ: The difference between a National Historic, Scenic and Recreation Trail

by American Trails Staff

The difference is usually ones of scale, significance, and administration responsibility and how they are designated.


posted Mar 27, 2018

Three Rivers Heritage Trail, Pennsylvania

This urban rail-trail parallels the riverbanks in the Pittsburgh area for about 21 miles, often on both sides of the rivers, and offering a spectacular view of the city.


published Jan 2010

Appalachian Trail Conservation Guidebook

by Pennsylvania Department of Transportation

A Conservation Guidebook For Communities Along The Appalachian National Scenic Trail


published Jan 2009

Sand Creek Greenway: Trail User Survey Report

A survey on the urban trail through Denver, Commerce City, and Aurora, Colorado, indicated a lot of satisfaction among greenway users as well as suggestions for improvement.


posted Mar 27, 2018

Francis Beidler Forest Four Holes Swamp Trail, South Carolina

The South Carolina Lowcountry's "real swamp" experience!


Jun 30, 2022

Fundamentals of National Recreation Trails

Learn about the benefits to designating your trail(s) as a National Recreation Trail (NRT), the history of NRTs, the process for trails to become NRTs, and more.


Jun 10, 2021

Understanding the National Recreation Trails (NRT) Program

Learn about the benefits to designating your trail(s) as an NRT, the history of the National Recreation Trails (NRT) program, the process for trails to become NRTs, the role of NRT Ambassadors, and more.