Here we spotlight a handful of the exciting new rail-trails that opened in 2023.

We thrive on these adventures—appreciating the unknown, the unexpected and the unique individuals we meet along the way. Being on our bicycles provides us with a sense of freedom and a way to stay attuned to the present moment.

RTC and its partners have defined the preferred route of the Great American Rail-Trail as more than 3,700 miles—with approximately 2,057 miles of existing trails (trails along the route that are built and maintained by dedicated teams of local staff and volunteers) and 1,696 miles of identified trail gaps.

View five leaf-peeping destinations along the Great American Rail-Tail, a 3,700-mile developing cross country trail.

No matter your architectural penchant—you’re sure to find a building to gawk at while traversing these rail-trail architecture highlights.

In June 2021, my husband, Pat, and I began our trek on the Great American Rail-Trail® in Seattle, Washington, at the western end of the 3,700-mile developing route.

Across the country, bridges are literally serving as gateways for communities to achieve critical strides in active transportation, conservation and economic development. Here, we take a look at 20 iconic bridges and trestles in the United States (in no particular order) that have played—or are playing—transformative connectivity roles in their regions.

RTC embarked on a 12-month assessment of route options using its GIS database of more than 34,000 miles of existing trails nationwide.