Planning

The Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail system uses numerous local, regional, state, and federal plans and management documents to inform how the trail is managed and how it will develop over time.

 
Lincoln Memorial above the reflection pool
Legislative History

In 1968, the National Trail System Act was passed into law paving the way for the National Trail System as we know it today.

A group of people sitting look at a man speaking from his chair in the back of the room.
Partnerships and Plans

The Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail would not be where it is today without the help of many partners.

Four documents stacked on top of each other
Central Management Documents

Each unit of the National Park Service requires additional documents to guide the park.

A table with a green tablecloth filled with various organized brochures and documents.
Open Comment Periods

A big part of plans come from the comments of the public. We need your input!

 

Additional and Archived Plans

Additional plans and environmental documents for the National Park Service are available on the Planning, Environment and Public Comment site (PEPC). PEPC is an online collaborative tool dedicated to facilitating the National Environmental Policy Act/National Historic Preservation Act process in conservation planning, environmental impact analysis, and informed decision-making.

Last updated: November 26, 2025

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail
c/o Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park
142 W. Potomac St.
Williamsport, MD 21795

Phone:

301-739-4200
This phone number will connect you to the C&O Canal National Historical Park's mainline.

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