The Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail Network: Explore the birth waters of a nation.

Over thousands of years, the Potomac River wound its way through layers of rock.  Carving limestone cliffs, roaring falls, and serene winding bends, these waters created a landscape and shaped a nation.  Today, the Potomac River corridor is rich in both history and recreation. Offering a chance to both explore your heritage and choose your adventure along the way.  Start your journey below!

Hiking shoes set on top of a rock.

Hike

Hiking is a great way to experience the PHT network.

a close up view of a bicycle handlebar with  wooded landscape in the background

Bike

Bicycling throughout the PHT corridor provides an exceptional experience of various kinds of landscapes and communities.

Kayakers paddle the Potomac River.

Paddle

Whether you hike, bike, or paddle the Potomac, there is something for everyone,

A map illustrating a portion of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail network

Maps of the PHT network

Trails, routes and exceptional places between the mouth of the Potomac River and the Allegheny Highlands

A trail marker on a wooden post adjacent to a wooden boardwalk through a bog.

Find Your Trail

Plan your visit by mode of travel or region.

A map illustrating a portion of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail network

Maps of the PHT network

Trails, routes and exceptional places between the mouth of the Potomac River and the Allegheny Highlands

A trail marker on a wooden post adjacent to a wooden boardwalk through a bog.

Find Your Trail

Plan your visit by mode of travel or region.

Partnership for the national trails system logo.

State of the Trails Report

Download the 2019 report (6mb .pdf)

Last updated: July 24, 2020

Contact the Park

Mailing Address:

Potomac Heritage NST Office
National Park Service
1100 Ohio Drive SW

Washington, DC 20242

Phone:

202-619-7154

Contact Us