Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn announced Oct. 16 that Pennsylvanians are being asked to nominate their favorite trail for the 2024 Trail of the Year.

“We are eager to receive applications for the 2024 Trail of the Year and to once again highlight Pennsylvania’s top trail,” Dunn said. “The commonwealth has some of the best natural resources in the nation and uplifting our trails is important to the future of outdoor recreation.

“I look forward to the competition and seeing which trail comes out on top,” she added.

Anyone who knows a trail that provides unique opportunities, encourages and celebrates diverse user groups, or enhances the community, may nominate it for the 2024 Trail of the Year.

For consideration, a nomination form and supporting documentation must be submitted at pacedcitpowerapps.powerappsportals.us/services/Trail-of-the-Year-Nomination by Nov. 10.

Each year, the Pennsylvania Trails Advisory Committee designates a Trail of the Year to help build enthusiasm and support for trails and raise public awareness about the value of Pennsylvania’s trail network.

The advisory committee is charged with implementing the development of a statewide land and water trail network to facilitate recreation, transportation and healthy lifestyles for all.

Pennsylvania is home to more than 12,000 miles of trails.

Gov. Josh Shapiro’s administration recognizes the value of trails for their power to connect communities and for the economic opportunities they create for urban and rural communities alike.

The administration recently announced $52.5 million community partnership grants for myriad projects including trails and community recreation initiatives.

The winning trail will be recognized in a news release by DCNR, a commemorative poster for statewide distribution, a trailhead marker along the trail and a grant for educational programs to promote safety and environmental protection on the trail.

The Mount Jewett to Kinzua Bridge Trail was Pennsylvania’s 2023 Trail of the Year.

The Pennsylvania Trails Advisory Committee is charged with implementing the recommendations of the Pennsylvania trails strategic plan.

The 20-member DCNR-appointed committee represents both motorized and nonmotorized trail users and advises the commonwealth on use of state and federal trail funding.

The advisory committee is currently seeking two new members.

Visit the Pennsylvania Trail of the Year website for more information about where to submit the form and supporting materials.

The Trail of the Year will be announced in early 2024.