How to access or view the USGS Trails Dataset

The USGS digital trails dataset is a comprehensive effort to aggregate a nationwide public domain geospatial data. This dataset can be easily accessed or viewed through various formats, including cartographic products, downloadable GIS files, and service endpoints.

Accessing the USGS Digital Trails Dataset

1. National Digital Trails website:
   1. Visit the National Digital Trails website.
   2. Search "USGS National Digital Trails Project" for informative resources and data links.
   3. Click on “Data” for detailed information on data sources.
2. Trails Explorer application:
   1. Use the USGS Trails Explorer to determine if specific trails are included in the dataset.
   2. The application overlays the trails dataset on the Protected Areas Database of the US (PAD-US).
   3. Note: The dataset is large; loading times may vary.
   4. For here, use the “Layers List” icon to access the “USGS Aggregated Trails” layer's details.
3. Topographic maps:
   1. Build a customizable OnDemand Topo via topoBuilder.
   2. Download a current US Topo or historical topographic maps via TNM Download v2.
      
      The images below compare various USGS topographic maps. The large image is a 1:100K US Topo sample at full resolution. The red box highlights the area used to compare design and resolution of the different map products (from left to right across the top):
      • 1:100K historical topographic map (30x60 minute map series)
      • 1:24K (7.5-Minute) US Topo

      • 1:24K (7.5-Minute) OnDemand Topo 

        Media

        

        Sources/Usage: Public Domain. View Media Details

         

4. National Map Viewer:
   1. Access the trails dataset using the National Map Viewer.
   2. Expand layers: go to the “Transportation” group, then select “Trails” under “Large and Medium Scale” layers.

Downloading geospatial trails data

1. National Map Download application:
   • Download the USGS National Transportation Database for your area from the National Map Download Application. USGS Trail data is one of the feature classes in the USGS National Transportation Database.
   • From the “Find Products” section, select:
     • Transportation.
     • Check “National Transportation Database”.
     • Choose either “National” or “State” data extent.
     • Select the file format: “Shapefile” or “GDB”.
2. National Map staged products directory:
   • Download nationwide or state extracts of the National Transportation Database for access to the trails dataset from the National Map Staged Products Directory.
   • Available in shapefile or geodatabase format. Keep an eye on the timestamp for updates.
3. The National Map services:
   • Access trails data through The National Map Services for direct integration into maps or applications.
   • Look for trails under “Theme Overlays” and “Web Feature Services.”