New 4,000 mile trail will allow you to bike or hike across the U.S. coast to coast

A new way to see the beauty of the U.S. either by biking or hiking is being planned connecting 12 states starting from Washington D.C.

Almost half of the 4,000-mile trail from the east coast to the west coast of the U.S., is already open and offers one long vehicle-free path through some of the nation’s most breathtaking scenery and historic routes.

Not only will the The Great American Rail-Trail serve around 50 million people living nearby, it’s one of the most environmentally friendly ways to explore the beauty of the nation.

The Great American Rail-Trail connects Maryland, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, Nebraska, Wyoming, Montana, Idaho, and Washington, and the District of Columbia.

The route, connecting over 125 existing trails and 90 trail caps, is almost halfway complete and will take the next few decades to finish.

According to the Great American Rail-Trail website, there are over 130 trails all ready and waiting to be explored.

Organizers are encouraging people to “explore, ride, hike, play, run, stroll, roll, unwind, enjoy, connect,” with the trail and share their experiences on social media.

‘Changing the way people move’

“With every experience you share, you’ll be helping to tell the story of America’s trail while inspiring others to get out and do the same,” according to organizers.

Without the threat of vehicles, cyclists, walkers and joggers can enjoy the trails and do their bit for the environment by staying out of their car.

Dennis Markatos-Soriano, executive director of the East Coast Greenway Alliance, said of the planned iconic landmark: “We’re trying to change the way people move in America.”