This report, Great American Rail-Trail Route Assessment, was originally published by Rails-to-Trails Conservancy (RTC) in May 2019. This updated version was published in May 2021.

The Anacostia River Trail, a 20-mile route along the city’s eastern waterway that offers an extraordinary tapestry of experiences on its journey to Bladensburg, Maryland.

Here is a sampling of some of the unique urban experiences along the Great American Rail-Trail, a cross country trail.

This cost estimate is the next step in supporting the completion of the Capital Trails Network and providing safe access to reliable transportation and open space for the more than 6 million people in the region.

Here are four sections of the Great American that span 100 miles or more with minimal on-street connections—perfect for multiday adventuring.

Here are snapshots of our favorite rail-trail experiences from all 50 states—demonstrating the beauty and geography our country is known for.

Imagine what’s possible with a trail that connects the country. That vision will become a reality thanks to the Great American Rail-Trail, a signature project of Rails-to-Trails Conservancy and the organization’s most ambitious TrailNation™ project yet.

“The speed, the freedom, the sense of connection—it’s what made me fall in love with biking,” explained Karla Gilbride. Discussing regular after-work trips down Washington, D.C.’s Capital Crescent Trail on a tandem bike

A key goal of the 11th Street Bridge Park is to serve as an anchor for equitable and inclusive economic growth.