News Release
NPS / Victoria Stauffenberg
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Contact: NCR Communications
Williamsport, Md. – The National Park Service is creating the first Comprehensive Plan for the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail, a major step toward strengthening connections across this regionally significant trail network.
The plan will guide how NPS and partners connect trail sections, protect natural and cultural resources, strengthen relationships with communities, and support long-term partnerships across Washington, D.C., Maryland, Virginia and Pennsylvania. It will also help clarify how the trail serves communities, supports outdoor recreation, preserves resources, and enhances regional connectivity.
To inform this effort, the National Park Service invites you to attend a virtual public meeting on May 28, 2026, at 6 p.m. and to provide input during the public comment period, open through June 29, 2026.
Next steps
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Visit the project webpage: https://parkplanning.nps.gov/pohecompplan
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Join the virtual public meeting: May 28, 2026, at 6 p.m.
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Submit your comments at the public meeting or online at https://parkplanning.nps.gov/pohecompplan by June 29, 2026.
During the virtual meeting, NPS will introduce the project, share early ideas and ask for feedback on issues, opportunities and the future of the trail.
Because the trail crosses many communities, landscapes and jurisdictions, public input is essential. Feedback will help NPS and its partners to better understand what matters most to people who use, care for and live near the trail.
This comment period is the first step in a larger public engagement process. After NPS reviews this first round of comments, the public will have more opportunities to review the plan and provide input.
About the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail
The Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail is a congressionally designated network of existing and planned trails across the Potomac River watershed, connecting natural, cultural, historic, and recreational resources in Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania, and the District of Columbia. It includes both on‑road and off‑road routes, multi‑use trails, and water‑based segments, managed cooperatively with numerous agencies and partners.
nps.gov
About the National Park Service. Established in 1916, the National Park Service preserves America’s most treasured natural and cultural places for the enjoyment, education and inspiration of current and future generations. Learn more at nps.gov
Last updated: May 29, 2026