Saturday, June 3, 2023

Secretary Haaland Designates Nine New National Recreation Trails

In celebration of Great Outdoors Month and National Trails Day on June 3, Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland announced yesterday the designation of nine new national recreation trails in nine states, adding 340 miles to the National Trails System. The newly designated trails join a network of more than 1,300 existing national recreation trails, which can be found in every U.S. state, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico.    

“This National Trails Day, I encourage everyone to explore one of the national scenic, historic or recreation trails that make up the National Trails System,” said Secretary Haaland. “These trails offer an abundance of opportunities to experience the breathtaking landscapes of our country, all while supporting outdoor recreation activities and boosting local economies.”


National recreation trails are existing local or regional trails that are designated by either the Secretary of the Interior or the Secretary of Agriculture with the consent of the federal, state, Tribal, local, nonprofit or private managing entity. These trails are jointly coordinated and administered by the National Park Service and the U.S. Forest Service, in conjunction with a number of federal and nonprofit partners. Managing agencies or organizations can apply for distinction as a national recreation trail through November 1. 

“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,” said National Park Service Director Chuck Sams. “They can be used by everyone and provide for the ever-increasing recreation needs of our growing population, especially in urban areas.” 

To view a list of the newly designated national recreation trails, please click here.

If you're intrested in learning about the compelling and fascinating stories of how the networks of trails were developed in some of our oldest and most iconic national parks, please click here.



Jeff
HikinginGlacier.com
TetonHikingTrails.com
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com

Ramble On (2nd edition book on the rich history of hiking)
Exploring Glacier National Park
Exploring Grand Teton National Park

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