On June 6, 2025, the Department of the Interior announced the addition of five new National Recreation Trails spanning six states, enhancing the National Trails System by an impressive 387 miles. This announcement comes just in time for Great Outdoors Month and National Trails Day, which is celebrated on June 7 each year.
These new trails are set to join a vast network of over 1,300 National Recreation Trails already established across every U.S. state, along with the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico.
Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum emphasized the importance of these trails in supporting local economies. “National Recreation Trails create opportunities for locally managed tourism to boost economies and benefit hikers, bikers, paddlers and other recreationists alike,” he stated.
The National Recreation Trails are coordinated by both the National Park Service and the U.S. Forest Service, alongside a variety of federal and nonprofit partners. Trails can be designated as national recreation trails by the Secretaries of the Interior or Agriculture, provided there is consent from the entity that manages the trail.
Importantly, the designation of a trail does not shift ownership or enforce federal management requirements. Instead, current management remains with the state, local, or private entities that oversee the trail, aligning with the administration’s commitment to local decision-making.
For those interested in applying for the distinction of National Recreation Trail, the application period is open until November 1, 2025.
The National Trails System, which comprises national scenic, national historic, national recreation, and national water trails, offers diverse opportunities to experience the nation’s landscapes and history.
The newly designated National Recreation Trails are now open for exploration and will each receive a certificate of designation, a set of trail markers, and a letter of recognition from Secretary Burgum.
Among the newly designated trails is the Miner’s Ravine Trail in California. This 6.36-mile trail, built by the City of Roseville, serves as both a transportation and recreational route, allowing local residents to connect with nature. It is a popular site for a range of activities, including hiking, biking, running, and dog-walking.
In the heart of the Midwest is the Ohio River Way, a 308-mile water trail that touches parts of Indiana, Kentucky, and Ohio. This trail connects diverse settings, from Appalachian wilderness to quaint river towns and bustling urban centers. It is not just a scenic journey but also rich in cultural history, having connections to events from Lewis and Clark’s expedition to the Underground Railroad.
Ohio’s Cuyahoga River Water Trail is also noteworthy. A portion of this water trail, which stretches 41 miles, begins at the confluence of the Little Cuyahoga River and the Cuyahoga River, flowing north to the river’s mouth at Lake Erie. The trail offers paddlers a variety of experiences, contrasting natural parklands with the industrial landscapes of Cleveland.
In Virginia, the Elizabeth River Trail offers a unique 10.5-mile urban waterfront experience that runs from Norfolk State University to the Port of Virginia. This multi-modal trail features beautiful views of the river, significant historical sites such as the USS Wisconsin, and even includes the Glowline, a trail section that shines in the dark, ensuring fun for all ages.
Lastly, the Great Pinery Heritage Waterway in Wisconsin encompasses 108 miles along the historic Wisconsin River, with a portion measuring 20.8 miles applying for National Water Trail designation. This trail showcases an array of landscapes, from old-growth forests to urban settings, and celebrates the significance of the Wisconsin River, often referred to as the Hardest Working River in the World.
These new trails promise to enhance outdoor experiences across the country and ensure that both nature lovers and history buffs have more opportunities to explore the beauty and rich heritage of the American landscape.
image source from：https://www.doi.gov/pressreleases/interior-designates-five-new-national-recreation-trails
