Great American Rail-Trail
Imagine a trail that
connects the country
A Trail That Connects the Country
5 Years of the Great American Rail-Trail
Watch our celebration of 5 years of incredible progress for the Great American Rail-Trail®. We dig into the impact that this vision has had and the progress that’s been made to complete the route. From hundreds of millions of dollars in investment, to new miles and connections made, economic opportunities tapped, and bikepacking adventures unlocked, we’ll explore the ways that the Great American is transforming the country.
The Great American Rail-Trail is the nation’s first cross-country multiuse trail, stretching more than 3,700 miles between Washington, D.C., and Washington State. This trail is an iconic piece of American infrastructure that will connect thousands of miles of rail-trails and other multiuse trails, serving tens of millions of people living along the route as well as those who visit the trail from around the country and the world.
The Vision of the Great American
Picture yourself … pedaling across the entire country on a safe, seamless and scenic pathway—or walking a local trail that connects along historic routes. Imagine the incomparable experience of exploring America’s heritage by trail—its potential, its beauty and bounty, its people and places. Consider the economic opportunities and the benefits for communities along the route of a multiuse trail that stretches more than 3,700 miles between Washington and Washington. Learn more about the vision of the Great American.
Progress Of The Trail
Latest from the Great American
View More Blogs
Nebraska Trails Visionary and Champion Lynn Lightner Passes Away, Age 90
Bainbridge Island’s New Welcome Pole: A Symbol of the Past and Present
First Round of Active Transportation Connectivity Grants Showcase Program Potential to Make American Towns and Cities Safer and Economically Resilient
Preparing For The Great American
Discovering America: Reconnecting People and Places
The Great American promises an all-new American experience. Through 12 states and the District of Columbia, the trail will directly serve nearly 50 million people within 50 miles of the route. Across the nation—and the world—only the limits of imagination will limit its use. Learn more about the preferred route.
Preferred Route
Shop Great American Gear
Shop Great American Rail-Trail gear including a jersey, t-shirt, socks and gaiter to celebrate the trail connecting the country.