Plan Process

The National Trails System Act of 1968, as amended (codified as 16 U.S.C. 1244) established the process for authorizing and designating new national scenic and national historic trails. In the Act, Congress authorized the Secretary of the Interior to conduct studies to determine the feasibility and desirability of designating new national scenic or national historic trails. Trail studies are made in consultation and cooperation with interested federal, state, and local governments as well as public and private organizations, landowners, and land users.


"➡️" indicates the current step in the planning process

Step 1. Information Gathering and Civic Engagement
Step 2. Evaluation
Step 3. Prepare Study Document
➡️Step 4. Submit Study Document to Secretary of the Interior
Step 5. Secretary of Interior Transmits Study to Congress