Summary of New National Recreation Trails
The Importance of Hiking Trails
If there’s anything we’ve learned over the past few years, it’s the importance of getting outside and the value of hiking trails and open space. While many of us are just beginning to discover the wonders found in our local parks, the National Trails System began long ago in 1968. Back then, trails with significant scenic or historical value were categorized and protected for public access.
New National Recreation Trails
These picturesque routes criss-cross the country, featuring famous trails like the Iditarod in Alaska and the Appalachian Trail, which spans 2,190 miles across 14 states. Recently, the addition of nine new national recreation trails has expanded this network by 340 miles, joining over 1,300 existing national recreational trails across the United States.
The announcement came from Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland, marking the celebration of Great Outdoors Month in June. In a June 3 press release, National Park Service director Chuck Sams stated, “National recreation trails, including these new designations, are some of our country’s highest caliber trails and provide close-to-home recreation opportunities and the benefits of spending time outdoors.”
Descriptions of New Trails
The newly designated national trails are located in nine states, which include Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Illinois, Wisconsin, Oregon, Tennessee, Texas, and Utah. They offer a variety of experiences, from stunning views of the Ozarks to unique opportunities for exploring Midwestern waterways by boat.
Vernon Bush Garden Trail, Alabama
This 1-mile trail winds through a diverse array of plant species, providing ample picnicking opportunities and picturesque lake views.
Razorback Greenway, Arkansas
The 40-mile Razorback Greenway connects several communities in northwest Arkansas, accommodating everyone from avid road bikers to families enjoying a leisurely stroll.
Harris Greenway Trail, Georgia
This greenway in Georgia links several neighborhoods and parks within Gwinnett County, enhancing community access to nature.
Fabulous Fox! Water Trail, Illinois and Wisconsin
The Fabulous Fox! Water Trail is the sole river trail added to the national trails list this year, featuring over 70 access points for paddlers along the Wisconsin-Illinois border.
Crown Zellerbach Trail, Oregon
The Crown Zellerbach Trail is primarily gravel, traversing the Oregon coastal range and wetlands on its 22-mile journey between Scappoose and Vernonia, Oregon.
Enterprise South Nature Park, Tennessee
Encompassing 70 miles of trail, Enterprise South Nature Park offers a variety of paths, suitable for novice walkers and challenging enough for seasoned hikers and bikers.
Wilson Creek Trail, Texas
The 10 miles of Wilson Creek Trail connect McKinney, Texas, with local parks, offering playgrounds and a disc golf course for recreation enthusiasts.
Iron Hills Trail System, Utah
This 29-mile trail network features premier options for mountain biking, trail running, and hiking in the scenic landscape of southwest Utah.
Old Highway 131 Trail, Wisconsin
During summer months, the Old Highway 131 Trail stretches 4.5 miles for hiking and biking, transitioning from snowshoe and cross-country skiing in winter.
