The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources unveiled a new website to promote easier use and enhanced enjoyment of a rail-trail system in Pennsylvania that has been hailed as among the most extensive in the nation.

Trail enthusiasts who enjoy the state's vast network of former rail beds-turned trails can now visit DCNR's site to find new interactive maps and updated information on many of the 96 Commonwealth rail-trails now open to public use. Trails under construction or in the planning stages also are noted.

The site will offer easy access to general trail information, parking, trail contacts, local weather conditions, photographs, trail composition, property history and an interactive mapping tool to aid in finding and traveling trails. Topographic maps will show steepness of terrain and other features, aiding hikers and bikers of all ages and abilities.

The Interactive Trail Explorer is a dynamic mapping tool that provides the user with Geographic Information System data maintained by DCNR's rail-trail program. Users can select features they want to see displayed on the map, such as cities, parks, forests, lakes or highways.

8/13/2004