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Trails

Explore the trail systems and hiking landscapes that define these destinations. You will find the trails topic represented across 192 parks and sites in the National Park System. Browse the full list to see which destinations match your interests.

192 parks and sites (NPS)

About Trails

  • Man in green shirt poses in foreground of an Amtrak sightseer train car.

    Trails and Rails: Klondike Seattle · Klondike Gold Rush - Seattle Unit National Historical Park

    Trails and Rails guides provide programs on the Coast Starlight daily through Sunday, September 27, 2026. They depart from Seattle on train #11 at 9:55am, arriving in Portland at 1:55pm. They depart northbound from Portland at 3:55pm, arriving back in Seattle at 7:51pm. On the Empire Builder , guides depart Seattle eastbound to Wenatchee on train #8 on Sundays and Thursdays at 4:55pm, arriving there at 8:50pm. They return from Wenatchee on train #7 at 6:45am on Mondays and Fridays, arriving back in Seattle at 11:30…

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  • A wooden bench sits beside a lake surrounded by mountains.

    Lake Creek - Woodland Trail Loop · Grand Teton National Park

    Take an easy hike along Lake Creek to the shore of Phelps Lake. The trail begins at the Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve and winds through the surrounding forest and along the banks of Lake Creek. Once at Phelps Lake, the forest opens up to reveal the lake and views into Death Canyon. Follow the Woodland Trail to complete the loop back.

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  • A man extends his hand on top of a rock to a woman below.

    Old Rag Circuit · Shenandoah National Park

    From March 1 - November 30, visitors to Old Rag Mountain, including hikers on the Saddle, Ridge, and Ridge Access trails, will need to obtain an Old Rag day-use ticket in advance, in addition to a Park entrance pass. Find out more information on our Old Rag day-use ticket FAQ page. Pets are not allowed on this hike. Featuring an adventurous rock scramble and a 360-degree view that makes you feel like you're on top of the world, there's no wonder why Old Rag is the most popular destination in Shenandoah National Par…

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  • Wilkinson Trail marker in foreground, trail with 3 hikers cutting through meadow

    Hike the Wilkinson Trail · Saratoga National Historical Park

    Saratoga National Historical Park preserves the sites associated with the 1777 Battles of Saratoga. Follow the footsteps of those before you as you hike along hallowed ground. The grounds of Saratoga National Historical Park are open daily, year-round, from sunrise to sunset. Check our operating hours page for updates. Stop by the visitor center to grab a trail map of the Wilkinson Trail. What to Expect BRING WATER! There is no water available along the trail and fountains are turned off during the winter months. N…

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  • Yellow flowers bloom in front of a lake at the base of a mountain range.

    Hermitage Point · Grand Teton National Park

    Those looking for a longer, but relatively flat hike, will enjoy treking to Hermitage Point. From Colter Bay, take the trail to Heron Pond, but instead of circling back to Swan Lake, continue on towards Hermitage Point. The trail traverses rolling terrain through forests, meadows, and wetlands. Once at the point, hikers will be greeted by views of Jackson Lake and the Teton Range. Follow signs to continue the loop back to Colter Bay.

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Trail-rich destinations

Programs & experiences

Lake Creek - Woodland Trail Loop

Grand Teton National Park

Take an easy hike along Lake Creek to the shore of Phelps Lake. The trail begins at the Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve and winds through the surrounding forest and along the banks of Lake Creek. Once at Phelps Lake, the forest opens up to reveal the lake and views into Death Canyon. Follow the Woodland Trail to compl…

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Old Rag Circuit

Shenandoah National Park

From March 1 - November 30, visitors to Old Rag Mountain, including hikers on the Saddle, Ridge, and Ridge Access trails, will need to obtain an Old Rag day-use ticket in advance, in addition to a Park entrance pass. Find out more information on our Old Rag day-use ticket FAQ page. Pets are not allowed on this hike. Fe…

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Hike the Wilkinson Trail

Saratoga National Historical Park

Saratoga National Historical Park preserves the sites associated with the 1777 Battles of Saratoga. Follow the footsteps of those before you as you hike along hallowed ground. The grounds of Saratoga National Historical Park are open daily, year-round, from sunrise to sunset. Check our operating hours page for updates.…

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Hermitage Point

Grand Teton National Park

Those looking for a longer, but relatively flat hike, will enjoy treking to Hermitage Point. From Colter Bay, take the trail to Heron Pond, but instead of circling back to Swan Lake, continue on towards Hermitage Point. The trail traverses rolling terrain through forests, meadows, and wetlands. Once at the point, hiker…

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Hike the Big Fill Loop Trail

Golden Spike National Historical Park

*See-Audio Tour in the "Self-Guided Tours" green tile on the main page* The Big Fill Loop Trail is a one mile and a half round-trip walking trail. Visitors walk on original Central Pacific grade and return on the Union Pacific grade. The trail showcases the Central Pacific's Big Fill and the abutments that once support…

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Outdoor Pursuits and Trail Map

Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site

"It is necessary now and then for a man to go away by himself and experience loneliness; to sit on a rock in the forest and to ask of himself, 'Who am I, and where have I been, and where am I going?'...If one is not careful, one allows diversions to take up one's time-the stuff of life" - Carl Sandburg as quoted from a…

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Aspen Ridge - Boulder Ridge

Grand Teton National Park

Hikers looking for a longer trail to Phelps Lake will enjoy this moderate loop. Leaving from the Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve, follow the Aspen Ridge Trail. The trail takes hikers through aspen groves and boulder fields before reaching Phelps Lake. Once at the lake, the forest opens up to reveal the lake and views…

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Phelps Lake Loop

Grand Teton National Park

This moderate loop trail provides access to Phelps Lake as well as views into Death Canyon and the southern end of the Teton Range. Start the trail from the Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve and follow the trail as it loops Phelps Lake. Those looking to extend the hike can add the Aspen Ridge or Boulder Ridge trails on…

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Valley Trail - Phelps Lake Overlook

Grand Teton National Park

The Valley Trail is a strenuous, out and back trail that winds through alpine forests, connecting Teton Village to Grand Teton National Park's valley lakes. Start the trail from the Teton Village base area. After an initial ascent to the start of the Valley Trail via Jackson Hole Mountain Resort trails , follow the tra…

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Granite Canyon

Grand Teton National Park

Rendezvous Mountain Trailhead Hike from the Teton Village base area to the top of Rendezvous Mountain via Jackson Hole Mountain Resort trails , or take the Aerial Tram ( fees apply ), to start this moderate hike down Granite Canyon. From the summit, the trail follows the ridgeline down to the South Fork of Granite Cany…

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Marion Lake

Grand Teton National Park

Rendezvous Mountain Trailhead Hike from the Teton Village base area to the top of Rendezvous Mountain via Jackson Hole Mountain Resort trails , or take the Aerial Tram ( fees apply ), to start this strenuous hike to Marion Lake. From the summit, the trail follows the ridgeline down to the Middle Fork of Granite Canyon…

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Horseback Riding in Rock Creek Park

Rock Creek Park

Horseback riding lessons are available at the Rock Creek Park Horse Center . There are 13 miles of bridle trails in Rock Creek Park for equestrians to use on their own, separate from activities offered by the Horse Center.

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Upcoming events

Upcoming programs and events at parks in this collection (from the NPS Events API).

Browse all events
Lectures
Jun 12
Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park

Geology Talk

 

How did the Black Canyon form? What kinds of rocks are these? Discover answers to these and other questions about this dizzying chasm. Meet at Pulpit Rock Overlook at 10:00 am. 20-30 minutes. Location subject to change. May be cancelled due to staffing shortages or bad weather.

10:00 AM - 10:30 AM
Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park
Workshops
Jun 12
Cape Cod National Seashore

Highland Light

 

The original Highland (Cape Cod) Light was constructed in 1797, making it the first lighthouse on Cape Cod. The current 1857 tower is the third on the site, and recently underwent a major rehabilitation. Tours and bookstore operated by seashore partner, Eastern National. The site is open 9 am-5 pm, staffing permitting. The last tour of the day takes place at 4:30 pm. Children must be at least 48" tall to climb the lighthouse due to the height of the stairs and ladders. No exceptions. Climbers who are 17 years old or younger must be accompanied by someone 18 years of age or older. To keep hands free for handrails, no person may be lifted or carried. Food, drinks, and bulky personal items (e.g. backpacks, tripods) should be left in your vehicle in the parking area. Shoes are required. Closed-toed shoes are recommended. Flip-flops are not allowed. Pets are not allowed in the Keeper’s Shop and Lighthouse Tower.

09:00 AM - 04:30 PM
27 Highland Light Road, Truro, MA.
Ranger Programs
Jun 12
Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Ranger Talk

 

Dig deeper into the history and nature of Cuyahoga Valley with a 10-minute presentation in the outdoor pavilion next to Boston Mill Visitor Center. Topics vary. Will move inside for inclement weather.

10:00 AM - 10:15 AM
Boston Mill Visitor Center: 6947 Riverview Road, Peninsula, OH 44264
Workshops
Jun 12
Cape Cod National Seashore

Old Harbor Life-Saving Station Open House

 

D rop in anytime between 2 and 4 pm. Built in 1898, Old Harbor is the last intact life-saving station of the original 13 on Cape Cod. A visit feels like stepping into a turn-of-the-century, working station while the crew is out on patrol. Race Point Beach, Provincetown. Beach fees may apply.

02:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Race Point Beach, Provincetown, MA
Ranger Programs
Jun 12
Cape Cod National Seashore

Terrace Talk

 

Explore the stories behind seashore scenery during these short talks on the Salt Pond Visitor Center terrace. Subjects vary by scheduled rangers

02:00 PM - 02:30 PM
50 Nauset Road, Eastham, MA
Special Events
Jun 12
Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad: Steam in the Valley

 

Step back in time and experience the power, beauty, and thrill of a true American icon. The Nickel Plate Road steam locomotive 765 is returning to CVSR for the highly anticipated Steam in the Valley! This year's event will feature two open air cars along with "run by" photo opportunities. Once a fast-freight and passenger locomotive for the New York, Chicago & St. Louis Railroad, built by the Lima Locomotive Works, the 765 is now a celebrated ambassador of American innovation. Owned and operated by the Fort Wayne Railroad Historical Railroad Society , this marvel of engineering has been meticulously restored to its original 1944 glory by the dedicated team at the Lima Locomotive Works. The 765 is one of only a handful of operational mainline steam engines in North America. Its visits are rare, and its presence is a testament to the enduring legacy of steam railroading. This isn't just a train ride—it’s a living, breathing piece of history!

09:00 AM - 11:45 AM
Rockside Station: 7900 Old Rockside Rd., Independence, OH 44131
Cultural Events
Jun 13
Cuyahoga Valley National Park

The Boston Gallery: Spirit Wings: Tales Told in Color

 

The Boston Gallery is a flagship initiative of the Conservancy for Cuyahoga Valley National Park’s Arts in the Park program, enriching visitor experiences and strengthening community connections through visual, cultural, and performing arts programming in partnership with artists across Northeast Ohio. Curated in partnership with the Museum of Creative Human Art (MoCHA), the Boston Gallery features rotating exhibitions of nature‑centric artwork, refreshed several times each year. On Exhibit: Spirit Wings: Tales Told in Color Spirit Wings: Tales Told in Color presents a visual dialogue between artists Sylvia Munodawafa and Dinara Mirtalipova, whose works explore nature through folklore, symbolism, and cultural storytelling. Munodawafa’s sculptural masks and abstract paintings draw from African spiritual traditions, while Mirtalipova’s vibrant illustrations bring mythic narratives and folk imagery to life. Together, their work celebrates the enduring power of art to connect heritage, imagination, and the natural world.

11:00 AM - 03:00 PM
The Boston Gallery: Parking is available at the Boston Trailhead (1508 Boston Mills Road, Peninsula, Ohio 44264). Once parked, head left toward the Boston Store and cross the street at the crosswalk.
Special Events
Jun 13
Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Cuyahoga Valley Farmers Market

 

Join Cuyahoga Valley Farmers Market to support your favorite vendors and meet all the new folks! They have an amazing lineup of local farms, food producers, artists, and makers this season - over 70 northeast Ohio businesses. There is also live music every week, cooking demonstrations, tastings of what’s in season, and other activities for all ages. Be sure to plan ahead and be aware of market policies such as the "dog-free hour," 9 - 10 am. Visit the market's website for more information.

09:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Howe Meadow: 4040 Riverview Road, Peninsula, OH 44264
Workshops
Jun 14
Cape Cod National Seashore

Nauset Light Tour

 

Drop in program . This iconic red and white lighthouse has been warning ships away from Eastham’s shores since 1923. Climb the tower and learn of its history and importance. Admission is free, but donations are accepted. Located at Nauset Light Beach, Eastham. Operated by Nauset Light Preservation Society: www.nausetlight.org

04:30 PM - 07:30 PM
Cable Road, Eastham, MA
Workshops
Jun 15
Cape Cod National Seashore

Captain Penniman House Tour

 

Stop by for a Penniman House open house on Mondays . On Wednesdays take the full tour this 1868 home of a successful whaling captain and learn about his family’s hardships, adventures, and lifestyle. Meet at the Penniman House, Fort Hill, Eastham.

11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Penniman House, Fort Hill Road, Eastham, MA
Ranger Programs
Jun 15
Cape Cod National Seashore

Whaling with Captain Penniman

 

Join a ranger at the Salt Pond Visitor Center to explore the life of whaling. Learn about the history of Captain Penniman and explore were, how, and why the captain fished for whales.

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
50 Nauset Road, Eastham, MA
Ranger Programs
Jun 17
Cape Cod National Seashore

Sharks and Seals: Dynamic Duo Pop-Up (Provincetown)

 

Join a ranger in a discussion to examine the relationship between sharks and seals and the roles they play in the balance of a healthy marine environment. Bring binoculars if you have them for seal viewing. Meet at Race Point Beach restrooms, Provincetown.

02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Race Point Beach, Provincetown, MA

All parks (192)

Acadia National Park
National Park

Acadia National Park

ME

Acadia National Park protects the natural beauty of the highest rocky headlands along the Atlantic coastline of the United States, an abundance of habitats, and a rich cultural heritage. At 4 million visits a year, it's one of the top 10 most-visited national parks in the United States. Visitors enjoy 27 miles of historic motor roads, 158 miles of hiking trails, and 45 miles of carriage roads.

Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail
National Historic Trail

Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail

HI

Established in 2000 to preserve, protect and interpret traditional Native Hawaiian culture and natural resources, Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail is a 175-mile corridor encompassing a network of culturally and historically significant trails. This "trail by the sea" traverses wahi pana (storied landscapes), ancient Hawaiian sites and over 200 ahupuaʻa (traditional land divisions).

Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site
National Historic Site

Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site

PA

The first railroad to cross the Allegheny Mountains, the Allegheny Portage Railroad was the final piece of the Pennsylvania Main Line Canal. "The Portage" opened in 1834, marking the first time that there was one, direct route between Philadelphia and Pittsburgh. All things to all people, it served merchants, passengers, slaves in pursuit of freedom, and soldiers from the Mexican War.

Anacostia Park
Park

Anacostia Park

DC

Welcome to Anacostia Park, your neighborhood national park in the heart of Washington, DC! Enjoy exercise along the river trail or relax by the water, Anacostia Park is a breath of fresh air and a space to unwind amid a bustling city.

Antietam National Battlefield
National Battlefield

Antietam National Battlefield

MD

23,000 soldiers were killed, wounded or missing after twelve hours of savage combat on September 17, 1862. The Battle of Antietam ended the Confederate Army of Northern Virginia's first invasion into the North and led Abraham Lincoln to issue the preliminary Emancipation Proclamation.

Appalachian National Scenic Trail
National Scenic Trail

Appalachian National Scenic Trail

CT,GA,MA,MD,ME,NC,NH,NJ,NY,PA,TN,VA,VT,WV

The Appalachian Trail is a 2,190+ mile long public footpath that traverses the scenic, wooded, pastoral, wild, and culturally resonant lands of the Appalachian Mountains. Conceived in 1921, built by private citizens, and completed in 1937, today the trail is managed by the National Park Service, US Forest Service, Appalachian Trail Conservancy, numerous state agencies and thousands of volunteers.

Appomattox Court House National Historical Park
National Historical Park

Appomattox Court House National Historical Park

VA

On April 9, 1865, the surrender of the Army of Northern Virginia in the McLean House in the village of Appomattox Court House, Virginia signaled the effective end of the nation's largest war. Questions remained: could the nation reunite as one? How would emancipation be realized?

Arches National Park
National Park

Arches National Park

UT

Discover a landscape of contrasting colors, land forms, and textures unlike any other. The park has over 2,000 natural stone arches, hundreds of soaring pinnacles, massive rock fins, and giant balanced rocks. This red-rock wonderland will amaze you with its formations, refresh you with its trails, and inspire you with its sunsets.

Arkansas Post National Memorial
National Memorial

Arkansas Post National Memorial

AR

Located at the confluence of two rivers, Arkansas Post has served as a gathering place for many cultures throughout human history - it represents cultural cooperation, conflict, synthesis, and diversity.

Assateague Island National Seashore
National Seashore

Assateague Island National Seashore

MD,VA

Want to live on the edge? Visit a place recreated each day by ocean wind and waves. Life on Assateague Island has adapted to an existence on the move. Explore sandy beaches, salt marshes, maritime forests and coastal bays. Rest, relax, recreate and enjoy some time on the edge of the continent.

Aztec Ruins National Monument
National Monument

Aztec Ruins National Monument

NM

Aztec Ruins has some of the best-preserved Chacoan structures of its kind. Learn more about the ancestral Pueblo people in the park's museum and explore the Aztec West great house to see exceptionally advanced architecture, original wooden beams, and a restored Great Kiva. Aztec Ruins is a deeply sacred place to many Indigenous peoples across the American Southwest. Please visit with respect.

Badlands National Park
National Park

Badlands National Park

SD

The rugged beauty of the Badlands draws visitors from around the world. These striking geologic deposits contain one of the world’s richest fossil beds. Ancient horses and rhinos once roamed here. The park’s 244,000 acres protect an expanse of mixed-grass prairie where bison, bighorn sheep, prairie dogs, and black-footed ferrets live today.

Showing 112 of 192 parks

Trails | Explore by Activity