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Hike on a National Historic Trail

People hike away down a trail in a desert setting with shrub bushes. — Hikers on El Camino Real de Tierra Adentro at Jornada del Muerto in New Mexico.
Photo/NPS

Take a Step - or a few - Back in Time

Hiking a National Historic Trail isn't always what people expect.

Like the National Scenic Trails, the historic trails pass through multiple states and travel across a variety of land ownership. Unlike the National Scenic Trails, the historic trails can't be traversed on one long walking trail. Some sections of the historic trails are traditional hiking trails, while others are asphalt roads. There are some trail routes that pass through private property and can't be walked at all. Historic Trails not only pass through Wilderness and public land, but urban areas too. Planning a trail-long adventure takes creativity, but rewards the traveler with rich American experiences. It also takes quite a bit of time to travel thousands of miles!

You can plan a weekend adventure or an afternoon outing on a National Historic Trail.

There is no need to travel the trail for months! The following trips will give you the opportunity to hike pieces of the original historic trail routes. We've selected some of the best sections of historic route that include a hiking trail. Length and locations vary, so take a look and start planning your future trip today!

For more information and ways to experience the historic trails:
National Trails Office - Regions 6, 7, & 8