National Recreation Trails are existing land-based and water-based trails that provide close to home recreation opportunities on Federal, State and local lands. National Recreation Trail designation promotes some of our country's highest-caliber trails with the intention of providing recreation access to rural and urban communities, economic development through tourism, and healthy recreation opportunities. National Recreation Trails are recognized by the federal government, with the consent of any Federal, State, Tribal, local, nonprofit, or private entity having jurisdiction over these lands. Today almost 1,300 of these trails have been designated throughout the country. They are located in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico.
To find out more information about the National Recreation Trails, view the resources below.
National Recreation Trails are supported in partnership between the National Park Service, U.S. Forest Service, and American Trails.
Last updated: September 24, 2025