Get to Know America’s National Scenic Trails

Are you ready to discover one of the most expansive trail systems in the nation with thousands of miles winding through dozens of states? America's National Scenic Trails are mostly non-motorized routes that must be longer than 100 miles, and you might have already hiked sections of these trails without even knowing it. These routes connect hikers to both history and nature, guiding adventurers across mountains, prairies, forests, and coastlines. Plus, you don’t have to commit to a months-long thru-hike to enjoy what these trails offer. There are plenty of options for us day visitors to get a glimpse of some of the country’s most breathtaking and diverse landscapes!

Here's your ultimate guide to America's National Scenic Trails:

What is a National Scenic Trail?

There are a total of 11 National Scenic Trails in the US and one of the most famous, The Appalachian National Scenic Trail (also known as the A.T. or simply the Appalachian Trail) crosses a whopping 14 states for a total of nearly 2,200 miles! 

Unlike local hiking trails, National Scenic Trails are part of a broader network of trails across the country, with many passing through national parks, forests, wildlife refuges, and private lands (where access is granted through agreements).

11 National Scenic Trails to Explore

Every National Scenic Trail is unique; most offer a mix of day-hiking options, multi-day backpacking routes, and long-distance thru-hiking. Some are world-famous, drawing hikers from around the globe. Others remain hidden gems, offering a more peaceful experience. Some sections are remote and rugged, requiring expert navigation skills and self-sufficiency, while others pass through towns with lodging and resupply points. 

Appalachian Trail - Eastern U.S.

Perhaps the most famous hiking trail in America, the Appalachian Trail runs roughly 2,190 miles from Georgia to Maine through 14 states and some of the East’s most beloved mountains. It’s a rite of passage for long-distance hikers, but even those of us who don’t consider ourselves advanced can hike short sections of it along scenic ridges, past tumbling streams, and through charming small towns. Only In Your State writers have hiked on sections through both Shenandoah National Park in Virginia and in Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee. 

Pacific Crest Trail - Western U.S.

Stretching 2,650 miles from Mexico to Canada, the Pacific Crest Trail is another famous thru-hiking trail that showcases the dramatic landscapes of California, Oregon, and Washington. With desert vistas, volcanic peaks, alpine meadows, and lush old-growth forests, it’s a truly beautiful journey. The PCT is physically demanding, but again, there are shorter day hikes where you can get a glimpse of that incredible scenery!

Continental Divide Trail - Rockies

The Continental Divide Trail runs about 3,100 miles through five states from New Mexico to Montana; passing through Glacier National Park in Montana, Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming, and Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado along the way. It’s one of the most challenging National Scenic Trails, but also one of the most rewarding. If you’re looking for solitude, wildlife encounters, and high-mountain panoramas, this is the trial for you!

Ice Age Trail - Wisconsin

We had a chance to visit sections of this trail last year near Janesville, Wisconsin and it has a fascinating history! The 1,200 mile trail traces the path of the last continental glacier to ever cover North America. The Ice Age Trail winds through prairies, forests, and glacial features like moraines, giving visitors a mix of geology and beauty. Many sections are easily accessible for day hikes and walks through more urban areas. 

Natchez Trace Trail - Southeast U.S.

This is another trail we’ve visited with a ton of history. The Natchez Trail is split into five sections running parallel to parts of the historic Natchez Trace Parkway and can be found through Mississippi, Alabama, and Tennessee. It was once traveled by Indigenous peoples and early settlers and today the trail offers a peaceful way to explore hardwood forests, wetlands, and cultural landmarks tied to centuries of history.

Florida Trail - Florida

The Florida Trail is one of only three that run through a single state, meandering more than 1,500 miles from the Everglades to the Gulf Islands National Seashore in Pensacola. While most of the trail is used for hiking, visitors can also camp, swim, bike, horseback ride, paddle, and picnic on some sections. It’s home to a variety of ecosystems like cypress swamps, pine forests, coastal dunes, an incredible variety of birdlife and of course, alligators! 

Arizona National Scenic Trail - Arizona

This is another trail contained in a single state, running 800 miles across Arizona. The namesake trail showcases the state’s incredible variety, from saguaro filled deserts and ponderosa pine forests all the way to the Grand Canyon itself. Given its location, it’s best to avoid parts of this trail in the Summertime because of extreme heat.

North Country Trail - Northern U.S.

This is the longest National Scenic Trail in the country, stretching 4,800 miles through eight states from North Dakota to Vermont. Winding through diverse landscapes, including hardwood forests, Great Lakes shorelines, and peaceful farmlands, it definitely offers a lot of variety.

Potomac Heritage Trail - Mid-Atlantic

This is one of the most diverse National Scenic Trails, linking the Potomac River with the Allegheny Highlands and passing through parts of Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and D.C. You won’t find one single footpath but a collection of trails, towpaths, and historic routes where visitors can hike, bike, or paddle while exploring history and beautiful scenery.

New England National Scenic Trail - Southern New England

Spanning 215 miles through Connecticut and Massachusetts, the New England Trail offers rocky ridgelines, sweeping vistas, and of course, those charming New England towns. It’s perfect for day hikes or weekend trips and especially popular during fall foliage season.

Pacific Northwest Trail - Northern U.S.

Covering 1,200 miles, mainly following the Canadian border from Montana’s Continental Divide to Washington’s Pacific Coast, the Pacific Northwest Trail passes through three national parks and seven national forests. There are rugged mountains, wild rivers, and remote stretches where you might go days without seeing another hiker.

You can learn more about National Scenic Trails and other great National Park Service sites on Only in Your State or at nps.gov.