Department of Interior Adds 5 New National Recreation Trails Across Six States

Several new and unique hiking and trekking experiences are highlighted across the United States and globally. In Flagstaff, Arizona, the Barefoot Trail offers a sensory-rich one-mile hike through diverse natural textures such as dirt, mud, and water, designed to engage both mind and body. The Department of the Interior designated five new National Recreation Trails in 2025, expanding a nationwide network that includes notable paths like the Bright Angel Trail and the Freedom Trail, with fewer restrictions and local accessibility. For those seeking remote wilderness, a free public event in Ohio features Brandon Weis sharing his experiences hiking 5,000 miles on America's most isolated trails, emphasizing deep backcountry adventures beyond cell service. Additionally, Michigan’s Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park offers enchanting hikes such as the Lost Lake Trail, which weaves through old-growth forests and provides a secluded natural setting. Globally, jungle trekking in places like the Amazon, Borneo, Costa Rica, and Madagascar provides opportunities to explore diverse ecosystems and rare wildlife, suitable for both experienced and novice trekkers.