Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail

World-class adventure travel. Grounded in a network of locally-managed trails and routes, Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail experiences include hiking and backpacking, bicycling, paddling, horseback riding, and tours through landscapes of exceptional beauty, complemented by small towns and cities, a variety of camping and lodging options, pick-your-own farms, vineyards and numerous seasonal events.

The Nation’s story. One of 28 national scenic and historic trails within the National Trails System, the Trail network traces the evolution of the Nation, from Tidewater Potomac over the Eastern Continental Divide and Allegheny Highlands to the Fork of the Ohio. Travelers discover colonial heritage, the Civil War, our Nation’s capital, working lands and waters, industrial heritage and a diversity of place and people for which the United States is well-known. Livelihoods past and present are prominent, from fishing, farming and forestry to water-powered industrial innovations, the historic Chesapeake & Ohio Canal, railroads converted into a popular rail trail, and many legendary travel destinations. Along with the businesses that provide a variety of travel services, the variety of Trail network experiences are a window into the Nation’s regional identities, history and culture.

A regional partnership. The developing Trail network is the result of extensive coordination among local, regional, state and federal agencies; non-profit and volunteer organizations; and business interests. Staff of the National Park Service administer provide coordination among and assistance to a variety of partners. For more information, visit www.nps.gov/pohe.