A Coast-to-Coast Adventure for Trail Bike Enthusiasts
Imagine embarking on an unparalleled trail bike adventure, traversing the heart of America from Washington D.C. to Washington State. The Great American Rail-Trail offers just that – a groundbreaking cross-country multiuse trail spanning over 3,700 miles, perfectly suited for trail bike explorations. Celebrating its 5th anniversary, this ambitious project is transforming the landscape of outdoor recreation, creating a seamless and scenic pathway for cyclists and adventurers alike.
This iconic American infrastructure project isn’t just about distance; it’s about connection. It links thousands of miles of existing rail-trails and other multiuse trails, creating a vast network accessible to tens of millions of people. Whether you’re a seasoned bikepacker seeking a cross-country challenge or a local rider looking for exciting Trail Bike Trails, the Great American Rail-Trail has something for everyone.
Envision Your Trail Bike Journey
Picture yourself pedaling your trail bike across diverse terrains, experiencing the breathtaking beauty of America’s landscapes. The Great American Rail-Trail is more than just a path; it’s an invitation to immerse yourself in the nation’s heritage, explore its hidden gems, and connect with its vibrant communities. Consider the possibilities: weeks of bikepacking through stunning scenery, weekend trail bike getaways, or simply enjoying a local segment for your daily ride. The vision of the Great American Rail-Trail is to unlock these experiences and more, providing economic benefits and enhanced quality of life for communities along its extensive route. Discover more about the vision of the Great American.
Trail Progress: Expanding Your Trail Bike Terrain
Alt text: Investment in Great American Rail-Trail development, highlighting financial growth for trail enhancements.
Great American Rail-Trail 2023 Infographic – 160 miles trail mileage in development, nearly 6 percent of the remaining route
Alt text: Trail mileage expansion for Great American Rail-Trail, showing progress in route development for cyclists.
Great American Rail-Trail 2023 Infographic – 3700 total miles and 2057 existing trail miles
Alt text: Total and existing trail miles of the Great American Rail-Trail, illustrating the scope for long-distance trail bike rides.
Great American Rail-Trail 2023 Infographic – More than 55 percent complete
Alt text: Completion percentage of the Great American Rail-Trail, indicating substantial sections ready for trail bike use.
Great American Rail-Trail 2023 Infographic – 150 existing trails hosting route and 80 trail gaps
Alt text: Trail network integration within Great American Rail-Trail, showing existing trails and gaps for future trail bike connections.
Great American Rail-Trail 2023 Infographic – 229.4 million in visitor spending
Alt text: Economic impact of Great American Rail-Trail through visitor spending, demonstrating benefits for trail bike tourism.
Great American Rail-Trail 2023 Infographic – 2500 new jobs
Alt text: Job creation linked to the Great American Rail-Trail project, highlighting community benefits for trail bike destinations.
Great American Rail-Trail 2023 Infographic – 22.8 million in new tax revenue
Alt text: Tax revenue generated by the Great American Rail-Trail, showing economic advantages for regions along trail bike routes.
The progress of the Great American Rail-Trail is remarkable, with significant strides made in recent years. Millions of dollars in funding have been secured, and miles of new trail are continually being developed. Currently over 55% complete, the trail already incorporates 2,057 miles of existing trails and is hosted by 150 individual trails, significantly enhancing the network of trail bike trails available across the country. This ongoing development translates to more and more miles of safe, scenic, and connected trails perfect for your next trail bike adventure.
View 2024 Progress Report
View Economic Impact Of Trail
Stay Updated on Trail Bike Trail Developments
View More Blogs
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Cas and colleagues at the 2024 Outdoor Media Summit in Montana | Photo courtesy Cas Marburger Using Trails
Trail Moments: Cas Marburger Is Shifting Gears in Missoula, Montana
February 04, 2025
](https://www.railstotrails.org/trailblog/2025/february/04/trail-moments-cas-marburger-is-shifting-gears-in-missoula-montana/)
Alt text: Cas Marburger at Outdoor Media Summit in Montana, promoting trail advocacy and trail bike community.
[ Building Trails
Nebraska Trails Visionary and Champion Lynn Lightner Passes Away, Age 90
January 27, 2025
](https://www.railstotrails.org/trailblog/2025/january/27/nebraska-trails-visionary-and-champion-lynn-lightner-passes-away-age-90/)
Alt text: Remembering Lynn Lightner, a Nebraska trails visionary, for contributions to trail bike access.
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Bainbridge Island America’s Trails
Bainbridge Island’s New Welcome Pole: A Symbol of the Past and Present
January 22, 2025
](https://www.railstotrails.org/trailblog/2025/january/22/bainbridge-islands-new-welcome-pole/)
Alt text: Bainbridge Island Welcome Pole dedication, celebrating local trail culture near potential trail bike routes.
View More Blogs
Get Ready for Your Trail Bike Adventure
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How You Ride the Great American Rail-Trail
](https://www.railstotrails.org/trailblog/2024/may/06/how-you-ride-the-great-american-rail-trail/)
Alt text: Panhandle Trail scenery in West Virginia and Pennsylvania, showcasing diverse trail bike terrains.
Gearing Up For a Cross-Country Trail Trek graphic by RTC[
Gearing Up for a Cross-Country Trail Trek Webinar
](https://www.railstotrails.org/resource-library/resources/gearing-up-for-a-cross-country-trail-trek-webinar/)
Alt text: Webinar graphic for cross-country trail trek preparation, offering advice for long trail bike journeys.
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10 Unique Lodgings Along the Great American Rail-Trail
](https://www.railstotrails.org/trailblog/2024/april/15/10-unique-lodgings-along-the-great-american-rail-trail/)
Alt text: Iron Horse Inn Bed and Breakfast in Washington, highlighting lodging options for trail bike tourists.
Planning a trail bike trip across the Great American Rail-Trail requires some preparation. Resources are available to help you understand how to best experience this incredible route, from choosing the right segments for your skill level to ensuring you have the appropriate gear for long-distance trail biking. Explore webinars and articles designed to equip you for every aspect of your journey.
Preview The Experience
Reconnecting with America on Two Wheels
The Great American Rail-Trail is poised to redefine the American experience. Spanning 12 states and the District of Columbia, this developing trail network will bring accessible trail bike trails to nearly 50 million people living within 50 miles of its route. The potential of this trail, for both local communities and international visitors, is limited only by imagination. It’s an invitation to discover America in a unique and engaging way, perfect for trail bike adventures. Learn more about the preferred route.
Great American Rail-Trail branded map (2022) by RTC
Alt text: Map of Great American Rail-Trail preferred route, showcasing interconnected trails for trail bike exploration.
Explore the Preferred Route
View Route
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Gear Up for the Trails
Great American Rail-Trail gear promo | Photo by Albert Ting and graphic by RTC
Alt text: Great American Rail-Trail merchandise promo, featuring apparel for trail bike riders and supporters.
Show your support for the Great American Rail-Trail and gear up for your next ride with official merchandise. From jerseys to t-shirts, find everything you need to represent this incredible trail network as you explore its diverse trail bike trails.
