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Welcome to America's National Trails

National Scenic, Historic, and Recreation Trails

The national trails system was established in the National Trails System Act of 1968 (as amended) to promote and provide opportunities for the public. The Forest Service manages and cares for many National Scenic, Historic, and Recreation Trails with the help of countless volunteers and partners. The 50th anniversary of the legislation establishing National Scenic, Historic, and Recreation Trails was commemorated in 2018. The then Forest Service Chief Vicki Christiansen was honored with a message from Sharon Francis. Ms. Francis, a staff member for President Johnson, was there on Oct. 2, 1968 to witness the signing of the Act into law.

For additional information, refer to the following national trail websites:

The Forest Service is Leading the Way on these Trails

Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail

A hiker walks along the trail on a ridgeline toward snow-spotted mountains.

The Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail (PCT) travels more than 2,600 miles from the US/Mexico border to the US/Canada border. Learn more about this National Scenic Trail...

Pacific Northwest National Scenic Trail

American Border Peak

The Pacific Northwest National Scenic Trail (PNT) stretches 1,200 miles from the Pacific Ocean near Cape Alava, Washington to near the Continental Divide in Glacier National Park in Montana.  Learn more about this National Scenic Trail:

Continental Divide National Scenic Trail

tops of mountains

The Continental Divide National Scenic Trail (CDT) follows the physical US Continental Divide, 3,100 miles between Canada and Mexico.  Learn more about this National Scenic Trail:

Arizona National Scenic Trail

Slider-Mogollon Rim Tonto NF 2017

The Arizona National Scenic Trail (ANST) extends 800 miles from the US/Mexico border to the Arizona/Utah border.  Learn more about the Arizona National Scenic Trail:

Florida National Scenic Trail

Hiker walking on the Florida National Scenic Trail through a palm cathedral

From the Florida Panhandle to the Everglades, explore 1,500 miles of Florida's outstanding scenic, natural, cultural, and historical resources.  Learn more about the Florida National Scenic Trail:

Nez Perce (Nee-Me-Poo) National Historic Trail

Big Hole Battlefield

The Nez Perce (Nee-Me-Poo) National Historic Trail stretches 1,170 miles from Oregon to Montana.  Learn more about this National Historic Trail:

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