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Goals and Vision

The American Discovery Trail Society:

Seeks to designate a network of Trail Towns along the American Discovery Trail. Although it is called “Trail Towns”, the program is open to all levels of sub-state government (Towns, Cities, and Counties)

Enhance recognition of the American Discovery Trail.

Help local communities expand their access to outdoor recreation.

Reap the benefits of being located on America’s only coast-to-coast non- motorized trail.

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The American Discovery Trail (ADT)

The Discovery Trail was the multi-use cross-country trail, stretching across 6,800 miles and 15 states.

The route links existing trails, cities with parks and wilderness areas.

Allows people to hike, bike or ride horses for a day or cross country.

Often, the Discovery Trail crosses public lands, connecting 17 National Scenic or Historic Trails, and 39 National Recreation Trails, 14 National Parks and 16 National Forests, as well as many state and municipal parks.

It is a “sea-to-shining-sea” showcase of America’s scenic, historic, and cultural treasures.

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American Discovery Trail

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Fall in the Rockies and a Through Hiker

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What is a Trail Town?

“A Trail Town is a community that has a long-distance trail passing through that supports hikers and bikers with services, promoting the trail to its citizens, and embraces the trail as a resource to the outdoors.

Trail Towns are built upon a relationship between a

town, the trail and its volunteers.”

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Benefits of Trail Towns

1. Ready access to outdoor recreation is a prime benefit.

2. Promotes a healthier community and enhances the quality of life.

3. Attracts homeowners and businesses who seek to enjoy nature and outdoor sports.

4. Fosters economic development and brings greater recognition to those towns located on a major national trail.

5. Knowing that a town on the trail is an officially designated as “Trail Town” affiliated American Discovery Trail encourages hikers and bikers to plan their visit, knowing that they will be welcome and have opportunities to rest, resupply, and recharge.

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Who will the trail benefit?

Travelers
Residents
Tourists
Businesses
Children

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Hiking through a Town or City on the Trail

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For the American Discovery Trail

The American Discovery Trail will likewise become better known throughout the nation as a jewel among national trails.

It helps thousands expand their access to nature and the outdoors.

It facilitates enjoying outdoor recreation and healthier lifestyles.

A network of trail towns enhances the trail’s recognition, the society’s membership, and volunteer engagement.

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Requirements for a Trail Town

A Trail Town should be located on or near the American Discovery Trail.

Demonstrate a sufficient level of support for the Trail.

The town must also be a welcoming community for visiting

hikers, bikers, and other non-motorized travelers.

The town could provide some services to local or global uses.

The list of amenities depends on the town’s unique offerings.

There is no requirement to make a financial contribution

(but some will do so).

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Typical Services in a Trail Town

Restaurants; drinking fountains; bike rack or repair station;

Overnight accommodations; perhaps including a campground;

Grocery and sporting goods stores; charging capabilities;

Maps and signs showing the route of the Discovery Trail through the town;

Window decals showing business supporters; and a post office.

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Amenities for Travelers

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How to Get Started

Submit an Application to the American Discovery Trail Society

Criteria for participation:

1. Application filled-out by Town Official

2. Connected to the Discovery Trail (on the trail or a spur trail)

3. Township/ County may apply if trail passes through it

Town Must at Least Commit to at Least 2 Criteria Listed Below

1. Amenities provided for trail users

2. Host an Annual trail-related project

3. Trail-related educational/ service related program by local schools

4. Inclusion of trail in Land-use/ trail system plans, ordinances,

Tourism and other public relations related publications, etc.

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Official Designation

After an application has been reviewed and approved, the American Discovery Trail Society officially designates the community as an “American Discovery Trail Town.”

In a public ceremony, the Society will present two

(or more) signs for the town to install.

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Signage on the American Discovery Trail

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An Ongoing Relationship

In conjunction with the designation, the Town and the Society should include a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), which commits the town to:

Embrace and support the Discovery Trail, in some way, such as including it in town land use planning documents or installing relevant signage.

Work with the American Discovery Trail Society on enhanced publicity, broader recognition of the trail, and opportunities to participate in trail town learning and support activities.

Promote the trail in at least two ways:

The Trail should promote trail towns as interesting places to visit, stay, resupply, and enjoy the trail.
The Trail Town should promote the trail and its use, development, volunteer needs and protection among their community and visitors.

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Create an Advisory Committee

Designate two or three locals to serve as a liaison with the Society.

Make additional connections with Trail Groups, and/or Park, Recreation, or Tourism Officials who can drive the process forward.

Recruit volunteers locally and create partnerships with the local business community.

Check for existing plans or initiatives that might be in place to avoid duplication.

Task committee volunteers to advertise on websites, visitor centers, Chambers of Commerce, Schools, and at local, county and state government agencies.

Plan an annual outdoor recreation event for the community.

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Questions ?

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