dirt trail along a grassy hillside with a view of hills in the distance

Our Journey to Become a National Scenic Trail

The Bay Area Ridge Trail has embarked on a journey to become a National Scenic Trail!

On January 28, 2026, U.S. Representative Jared Huffman and U.S. Senator Adam Schiff, along with U.S. Senator Alex Padilla and every member of the Bay Area delegation, introduced legislation to help designate the Bay Area Ridge Trail as a National Scenic Trail (NST). This historic move would place the Ridge Trail alongside just 11 other trails nationwide—including the Appalachian and Pacific Crest—that claim this prestigious distinction.

Map of the 11 National Scenic Trails in the U.S.

"The Bay Area Ridge Trail is a crown jewel of our region, providing millions of people with access to some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the country and connecting our communities to the outdoors. Designating it as a National Scenic Trail would not only help complete it – it would set it on par with iconic trails like the Appalachian and Pacific Crest and elevate the incredible and diverse Bay Area landscapes. This would be a major boost for the recreation economy, and our bill gets that ball rolling."

— Rep. Jared Huffman

"The Bay Area Ridge Trail gives visitors to the Bay Area and its residents the opportunity to enjoy more than 500 miles of some of California's most incredible outdoor beauty, including parks and preserves. Providing federal recognition to this ridgeline trail will help preserve it for future generations, and I'm proud to partner with Congressman Huffman and our Bay Area delegation in the effort to make it so."

— Senator Adam Schiff

"NST status would raise awareness and expedite completion of this world-class trail, which boasts over 400 completed miles, on the path to a 550-mile fully connected loop. We applaud Congressman Huffman for spearheading this legislation, and the entire Bay Area delegation for signing on as co-authors. We invite everyone to join us on this journey!"

— Janet McBride
Executive Director, Bay Area Ridge Trail Council

WHY THIS MATTERS

A Trail for Everyone
Expanding access to nature for 8 million residents and visitors across 145+ parks and open space preserves encircling San Francisco Bay.

Region-Wide Support
The entire Bay Area U.S. congressional delegation, as well as both U.S. Senators, support legislation to designate the Ridge Trail as a NST.

Critical Conservation
Protecting irreplaceable open space and wildlife habitat in one of America’s most populous regions for generations to come.

National Recognition
Enhancing the Ridge Trail’s visibility as a world-class recreation opportunity and attracting new users from communities around the Bay and beyond.

Federal Partnership
Bringing new resources and support to help complete the remaining 150 miles and ensure long-term stewardship.

Economic Boost
Strengthening the regional recreation economy and supporting local communities.

A NATURAL FIT FOR NST

National Scenic Trails are “continuous protected scenic corridors that offer a superlative recreational experience.”

The Ridge Trail meets all the criteria:

Extended trail route of more than 100 miles
Maximum outdoor recreation potential across diverse terrain
Nationally significant scenic, historic, and cultural qualities
Represents desert, marsh, grassland, mountain, canyon, river, and forest ecosystems
Exhibits significant regional geographic characteristics
Connects communities, landmarks, and public lands through extensive side trail networks

THE PATH FORWARD

Introducing legislation is an exciting and significant first step in what is likely to be a multi-year process. After a bill is enacted, the next steps will be:

Feasibility Study:
The National Park Service will evaluate the Ridge Trail as a candidate for NST status.
Congressional Action:
If recommended, another act of Congress will officially add the trail to the National Trails System.
Comprehensive Planning:
The NPS, Ridge Trail Council, and partner agencies will develop a management and use plan.

Much like completing the Ridge Trail itself, achieving National Scenic Trail designation demands vision and perseverance—but it is a goal truly worth pursuing for current and future generations.

This designation represents decades of collaboration between land agencies, conservation partners, volunteers, and supporters like you. National Scenic Trail status will accelerate our mission to complete the remaining miles and ensure this world-class resource remains accessible and protected. Thank you for being part of this journey. Your support has made this moment possible, and your continued engagement will help us reach the finish line.