Management

Child walking on Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail

NPS Photo

The Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail (PHT) is an evolving network recognized through formal “agreements for management” (memoranda of understanding) between and among the National Park Service and other government agencies and organizations; see the "Our Partners" page of this Web site for a list of entities that plan for and manage segments of the PHT. The federal role in coordination, technical assistance, development and management of the PHT is delegated to a full-time superintendent (the trail administrator) with some administrative and project support from staff in park, regional and program offices; as with other trails in the National Trails System, the NPS superintendent for the PHT is responsible for authorizing and managing use of the official PHT insignia, or logo, recognized as a Federal mark. In addition, volunteers contribute to trail and route management on many segments of the PHT, as well as to advocacy, planning, development and promotion.

The National Trails System Act (as amended) is the primary authority for PHT administration and management, complemented by a Foundation Document (2015) and an “Interpretive Concept Plan” (2004); for more information, see “Laws and Policies” and “Planning.” In a practical sense, a set of guidelines for PHT route marking and graphic identity provide guidance for management partners and others, helping to create continuity throughout the network.

Last updated: January 23, 2025

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail
c/o Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park
142 W. Potomac St.

Williamsport, MD 21795

Phone:

202-653-5190
This phone number will connect you to the C&O Canal Superintendent's office. All messages will be forwarded to the Business Management Team for the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail.

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