Administration & Management

The National Trails System Act of 1968, as amended, governs the activities of the National Trails System. In addition, the National Park Service adheres to the policies for national trails in Director's Order #45.

The Legislation established trails in both urban and rural settings. It established four classes of trail: National Scenic Trails, National Historic Trails, National Recreation Trails, and side and connecting trails.

• National Scenic Trails – extended, continuous routes of outdoor recreation within protected corridors.

• National Historic Trails – extended trails which recognize and follow as closely as possible and practicably original trails or routes of travel of national historic significance, including past routes of exploration, migration, and military action.

• National Recreation Trails – term is given to existing local or regional trails when recognized by the federal government, with the consent of any federal, state, local, nonprofit, or private entity having jurisdiction over these lands.

• Side and Connecting Trails

For further information, view the documents linked below.

National Trails System Documents

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  National Trails System Act

  The National Trails System Act of 1968 governs the activities of the National Trails System

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  Director’s Order #45

  Policies and procedures for national scenic and historic trails

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  Reference Manual #45

  A guide for staff that work with National Trails

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  Memorandum of Understanding

  Interagency Memorandum of Understanding

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  National Trails System Act Authorities

  National Trails System Act - ANALYSIS OF AUTHORITIES