North Country Trail

The North Country Trail is a long-distance hiking path that stretches over 4,800 miles from North Dakota to Vermont, connecting eight states across the country. The route winds through forests, around lakes, across grasslands, and links together different types of natural landscapes.

The path partly follows routes used by Native Americans and early settlers, as well as old railroad lines and trade routes from the 1800s. These historic pathways form the backbone of the route today.

The path travels through regions shaped by different communities, each with their own connection to the land and local traditions. Walkers encounter how people in these areas interact with forests, lakes, and grasslands as part of their daily lives.

Hikers should check with visitor centers or use mobile applications before setting out to find maps, water sources, and camping areas along the route. The path is accessible in many places, though conditions vary by season and region.

The path crosses through more than 160 public lands managed at federal, state, and local levels, allowing hikers to experience several different ecosystems in one journey. This variety makes each section of the path feel like its own discovery.

Location: North Dakota

Location: Minnesota

Location: Wisconsin

Location: Michigan

Location: Ohio

Location: Pennsylvania

Location: New York

Operator: United States National Park Service;North Country Trail Association

Website: https://nps.gov/noco

GPS coordinates: 42.93450,-85.33780

Latest update: December 14, 2025 19:54