Join us for a conversation about gearing up for a cross-country trail trek and what it takes to travel across the country by trail!

We highlight lodging along the Great American Rail-Trail, and history buffs can find more from the National Trust for Historic Preservation.

Here we spotlight a handful of the exciting new rail-trails that opened in 2023.

We thrive on these adventures—appreciating the unknown, the unexpected and the unique individuals we meet along the way. Being on our bicycles provides us with a sense of freedom and a way to stay attuned to the present moment.

RTC and its partners have defined the preferred route of the Great American Rail-Trail as more than 3,700 miles—with approximately 2,057 miles of existing trails (trails along the route that are built and maintained by dedicated teams of local staff and volunteers) and 1,696 miles of identified trail gaps.

View five leaf-peeping destinations along the Great American Rail-Tail, a 3,700-mile developing cross country trail.

No matter your architectural penchant—you’re sure to find a building to gawk at while traversing these rail-trail architecture highlights.

In June 2021, my husband, Pat, and I began our trek on the Great American Rail-Trail® in Seattle, Washington, at the western end of the 3,700-mile developing route.