A Fascinating History of the National Trails System
Hiking is one of the best ways to see and explore a countries most amazing and awe-inspiring landscapes while also getting a taste of its history. The National Trails System in the United States is one of the finest examples of this experience.
Comprised of 11 national scenic trails, 19 national historic trails, and over 1,300 recreational trails, there is no shortage of incredible sights and natural wonders to discover. These 88,000 miles of trails run through every state and offer a variety of different activities including hiking, biking, camping, scenic driving, and water sports.
So how did this extensive network of trails become the National Trails System? Read on to learn about the awesome history of this incredible accomplishment.
Beginnings
The trails of this system have their origins in necessity. Trails served as a practical means of transportation during the early history of the United States.
Without the modern transportation methods we enjoy today, these trails were vital to trade and migration. It wasn’t until the late 19th and early 20th century that these trails, and nature in general, was valued as a place worth saving and protecting.
The creation of the Yellowstone as America’s first national park in 1872 planted the seeds for the conservation movement. This was further strengthened by the official creation of the National Park Service in 1916 by the federal government.
In the 1920s, the countries first interstate recreational trail began its development. Started by pioneer preservationist, Benton MacKaye, this rough hiking pathway became the now famous Appalachian Trail that was completed in 1937.
Following the end of World War II in 1945, the government sought to create more areas of outdoor recreation for the fast growing population to enjoy. The Appalachian Trail was used as a template to copy and recreate in other parts of the country.
This idea was part of then President Lyndon B. Johnson’s speech to Congress on “Natural Beauty” in 1965 to repurpose existing trails and create new public pathways. Three years later, in 1968, the National Trails System Act was enacted by Congress to try and fulfill this dream.
Designations
In order to create a National Scenic Trail or National Historic Trail, the area must be designated by acts of Congress. Detailed studies of the route are made by the Secretary of the Interior or the Secretary of Agriculture to address both the sustainability and the feasibility of adding the trail.
The first trails to be added to the National Trails System were the Appalachian National Scenic Trail and the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail on October 2, 1968. The Continental Divide National Scenic Trail and the Oregon, Mormon Pioneer, Lewis and Clark, and Iditarod National Historic Trails were all added ten years later on November 10, 1978.
Over the next 50 years, Congress established 30 National Scenic and National Historic trails as well as over 1,000 National Recreation Trails and 7 connecting side trails. These trails have helped bring the original vision of the National Trails System Act into reality and provide access to nature for the countries citizens.
Management
Administration of the trails is again done by either the Secretary of the Interior or the Secretary of Agriculture. They help to oversee development of trail segments, coordinate markings and mapping, and develop maintenance standards.
When it comes to the trails management however, this is done at the local level by state and local government, private groups, or individuals who own the lands along the trail. The majority of the trails in the National Trails System are managed by the National Park Service while the Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management administers the others.
Uses of the Trails
There are many activities that can be done out on the trails with some of the most popular being hiking, biking, horseback riding, and cross-country skiing. Certain sections of the trail also allow for water based activities like kayaking, canoeing, and fishing.
For the truly adventurous, overnight hiking and backpacking are also permitted on the trail. It’s a way for visitors to immerse themselves in the experience of exploring everything the trail has to offer.
While motorized vehicles are general prohibited on most portions of the trails, there are some areas where these activities are allowed. ATVs and snowmobiles are popular choices for any trail-going motorsport enthusiasts.
The most important goal when it comes to using the trail is that it doesn’t interfere with nature or the purpose of the trail. Preservation is a priority for those who oversee the National Trails System to help protect it for future generations.
Top 5 National Trails System Hikes To Explore
If you’re looking for the best trails to get started on, this list contains the some of the most iconic and scenic hikes in the National Trails System. There’s a trail for every skill-level on this list of five for beginners and experts.
1. Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail
This 2,650 mile trail spanning the West Coast is one of the countries most scenic and beautiful stretches of land. The trail starts in Mexico and passes through California, Oregon, and Washington before continuing into Canada.
While hiking the entire trail may not be feasible for everyone, hiking sections at your own pace still retains the beauty and magic of the experience. You can also explore the trail during different seasons to see unique landscapes all year round.
2. Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail
For those looking to experience American history and learn about the countries fight for independence, this is one of the best trails to explore. It follows a path that traces the movement of troops during the War of 1812, takes visitors through many significant historical sites and monuments in the nations capitol.
Along this trail, travelers can visit sites like Fort McHenry in Baltimore as wells as several important sites in Washington including the White House and the Capitol. The best part is that it’s a non-strenuous hike that anyone can tackle.
3. Appalachian National Scenic Trail
If you’re really looking to experience the history of the National Trail System, then visiting the trail that started it all is a must. For the truly bold, hiking the entire Appalachian Trail is a bucket list adventure to complete at least once during their lifetime.
Those who aren’t up to hiking the 2,194 mile pathway, doing the trail in sections is another viable option. There are many smaller hikes offering spectacular views that show the beauty of the U.S.’s East Coast states.
4. Lewis And Clark National Historic Trail
One of the most famous expeditions in American history, the Lewis And Clark Expedition of 1804-1806 helped to establish practical routes of the newly acquired western United States. Starting in St. Louis, Missouri, the party made their way to the Pacific Ocean and back in just over two years.
Hiking this trail will allow you to follow in the footsteps of the 30 brave and daring explorers who risked everything by stepping into the great unknown.
5. Ice Age National Scenic Trail
This 1,200 mile trail that spans east to west across the state of Wisconsin follows the edge of the last Ice Age over 12,000 years ago. During this time, Canada was covered in massive sheets of ice that stretched down past the Great Lakes.
Today, hikers can see the geological relics of this period that were carved by the ice thousands of years ago. The landscape changes between mature forests and open fields connected by rivers, streams, and thousands of lakes.
Conclusion
As one of the best ways to see and explore the United States, the National Trails System carries out its intention of preserving and promoting the nations trails for public enjoyment. There’s a trail for everybody in every state to hike and experience the open-air of the nations most scenic and historic areas.
