Director's Order 45 and Reference Manual 45

Director's Order #45: National Trails System provides consistent guidance to National Park Service managers and staff to implement NPS responsibilities under the National Trails System Act.

The accompanying Reference Manual #45 is intended to complement Director’s Order 45 and provide detailed guidance to staff charged with carrying out NPS administration and management responsibilities under the National Trails System Act.


How Partners Engage on National Trails

Partnerships sustain the National Trails System. The administration and management of the trails is a collaborative endeavor involving Federal agencies, states, local governments, Tribes, nonprofit organizations, businesses, educational institutions, and volunteers. The National Park Service (NPS) works closely with a range of nonfederal partners to achieve the goals and vision of the National Trails System, in addition to participating in the interagency National Trails System Council.

For questions, or to learn more, reach out to a National Trails System contact for support on specific trails near you.