"WASHINGTON, DC -- Federal officials [Friday] designated 28 trails as national recreation trails, adding roughly 650 miles of trails in 18 states to the National Trails System."
"[Friday's] announcement comes in advance of National Trails Day on Saturday. The day features hundreds of organized activities including hikes, educational programs, bike rides, trail rehabilitation projects, festivals, paddle trips, and trail dedications across the country.
'From coast to coast, the National Trails System helps connect American families with the wonders of the great outdoors,' said Secretary of the Interior Sally Jewell, announcing the new trail designations. 'These 28 new national recreation trails, established through partnerships with local communities and stakeholders, connect federal, state and local lands and waters to provide access to inexpensive, enjoyable outdoor activities for all Americans.'
National recreation trail designation recognizes existing trails and trail systems that link communities to recreational opportunities on public lands and in local parks."
Environment News Service had the story May 31, 2013.