In celebration of Great Outdoors Month and National Trails Day on June 6, Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum designated five new National Recreation Trails and one National Water Trail, adding 162.5 miles of hiking, paddling and outdoor recreation opportunities across five states. Already a State and National Heritage Area, the Schuylkill River has become the first and currently only designated National Water Trail in Pennsylvania. Currently, there are 40 officially designated NWT across the United States.
“Schuylkill River Greenways is honored and proud to have the Schuylkill River — the backbone of our Heritage Area and our region — recognized as the very first National Water Trail in Pennsylvania,” said SRG executive director, Elaine Schaefer. “This news is especially exciting and poignant as we are on the eve of setting out on our 28th Schuylkill River Sojourn, a beloved annual event during which over 250 paddlers enjoy 112 miles of the river over seven days. This year we are focusing on the river’s integral role in our nation’s 250-year history, now capped off with the lofty distinction as a National Water Trail!”
The Schuylkill River Water Trail is a 120-mile paddling route within the Schuylkill River Greenways National Heritage Area, stretching from the river’s headwaters near Tuscarora to its confluence with the Delaware River. Flowing through five counties, the trail offers experiences ranging from whitewater paddling to calm stretches suited for beginners. Decades of environmental restoration have transformed the river into a thriving recreational resource that supports a diverse fishery and abundant wildlife.
Schuylkill River Greenways began the application process to become a designated National Water Trail in 2024, applying in the 2025 round. Criteria for selection includes the implementation of Best Management Practices like recreational opportunity, education, restoration, maintenance, and planning. The organization also sought out community support during the process and received recommendation letters from State agencies, municipal boat launch owners, and water trail stakeholders.
“America’s trails connect people to the outdoors, strengthen local communities and showcase the natural beauty and history that define our nation,” said Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum in the department press release. “These new designations expand opportunities for recreation, stewardship and exploration while helping ensure future generations can experience the landscapes and waterways that make America extraordinary.”
An interactive map of the Schuylkill River Water Trail can be found on Schuylkill River Greenways’ website and paddlers can purchase a detailed guide that provides information on river mileage between over 60 water landings, river safety and navigation around hazards, and amenities provided by river towns and local communities.
Trailheads / Parking Map | Water Trail Landings
More information about the National Trails designations can be found on the U.S. Department of the Interior website.
Interior Designates Six New National Trails Across Five States – American Trails
ABOUT SCHUYLKILL RIVER GREENWAYS
The Schuylkill River Greenways NHA is a non-profit organization with the mission of connecting residents, visitors and communities to the Schuylkill River and the Schuylkill River Trail (SRT) by serving as a catalyst for civic engagement and economic development in order to foster stewardship of the watershed and its heritage.
