America’s greatest contribution to cultural history is its music, and it’s been influenced directly by the records made by those artists of Gennett records.

“Connecting art with trails is a beautiful gesture that seems to be happening more often,” reflected Bernard Williams.

RTC is honoring Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb as the 2021 Doppelt Family Rail-Trail Champion for the state’s Next Level Trails program.

This vision is becoming a reality with nearly 60% of the 2,590-mile Bay Area regional trail network complete. Leading the charge is the Bay Area Trails Collaborative, a group of more than 50 businesses, agencies and organizations that is chaired by Rails-to-Trails Conservancy (RTC).

Surrounded by tree canopies, beautiful countryside and the charm of small towns, the Big 4 Trail traverses a Midwestern wonderland. The developing rail-trail serves as an important regional connector—spreading diagonally across Boone County, crossing into Clinton County and, eventually, continuing into Tippecanoe County.

Simon’s bike rental shop, a first for the town, is situated on Hurleyville’s Main Street, just steps from the rail-trail. “It’s 7 miles of beautiful, flat pavement.”

As we look ahead, we see opportunity and potential in the work and in the inspiration provided by the partners, friends and advocates with whom we share our collective vision.

Below, we’ve spotlighted a handful of the exciting new rail-trails that have opened up around the country this year, as well as the broader trail networks they tie into.

Regardless of the season, Vermonters make the most of their trails. From spring when the wildflowers abound to the stunning autumn display of the hardwood forests, traveling by trail is a part of life.

Holding more than half of America’s national park land by area, as well as numerous wildlife refuges, national forests, state parks and other outdoor assets, opportunities to recreate in the state are nearly boundless.