WASHINGTON, D.C. — A bipartisan group of lawmakers is pushing to begin the federal review process that could eventually turn George Washington’s 1753 route through Western Pennsylvania into a federally recognized National Historic Trail, a designation supporters say could expand tourism, preserve historic sites, and bring new economic development to communities along the corridor.
What This Means for You
- Federal officials would study whether Washington’s Trail qualifies for National Historic Trail designation.
- The route crosses multiple Western Pennsylvania counties and includes museums, landmarks, and tourism destinations.
- Supporters say the designation could increase heritage tourism and boost local economies tied to historical travel.
The legislation, reintroduced this week by John Fetterman and backed in the House by Mike Kelly, would direct the U.S. Department of the Interior to conduct a feasibility study on formally recognizing “Washington’s Trail” under the National Trails System.
A feasibility study is the federal government’s formal review process used to determine whether a route meets the historical, cultural, and management standards required for National Historic Trail status.
The proposed trail follows the route a 21-year-old George Washington traveled in 1753 during a diplomatic mission to Fort LeBoeuf, now located in present-day Waterford in Erie County. Historians view the journey as a pivotal early event that helped set the stage for the French and Indian War.
The route begins in Virginia, travels through Maryland and West Virginia, and crosses several Western Pennsylvania counties before reaching Erie County.
In Pennsylvania, the trail includes historical and tourism destinations such as the Fort Pitt Museum, Old Economy Village, DeBence Antique Music World Museum, and Fort LeBoeuf Museum.
Fetterman said the legislation comes at a symbolic moment as the United States marks its 250th anniversary.
“Washington’s Trail is just one example of an iconic piece of American history,” Fetterman said. “We should absolutely do everything we can to protect and preserve this trail for all of us and future generations to enjoy.”
Kelly said the designation effort could help connect communities while expanding economic opportunities tied to heritage tourism.
“By designating Washington’s Trail as a national historic trail, we create an opportunity to preserve this history, to build community pride, to connect communities, promote economic revitalization, and create jobs while telling this story of George Washington and the birth of our nation,” Kelly said.
The Senate measure also drew bipartisan support from Dave McCormick, Shelley Moore Capito, Jim Justice, Tim Kaine, and Mark Warner.
McCormick described the proposal as both a preservation effort and an economic development initiative.
“Securing National Historic Trail status for Washington’s Trail is about more than just preservation,” McCormick said. “It’s a strategic investment in Pennsylvania’s heritage and conservation that honors the journey of a young George Washington right here in our backyard.”
Economic and Tourism Potential
Supporters of the legislation argue that National Historic Trail designation could raise the profile of communities along the route by increasing visitation to museums, parks, and local businesses connected to the trail.
National Historic Trails are federally recognized routes tied to major events or periods in U.S. history. Existing trails include the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail and the Trail of Tears National Historic Trail.
Lawmakers from West Virginia and Virginia also pointed to the trail’s regional significance and its role in preserving early American history.
Capito said the study would help preserve “an amazing chapter in our nation’s founding,” while Justice said the route could create new tourism and outdoor recreation opportunities throughout the region.
Kaine said the legislation aligns with broader efforts tied to the nation’s semiquincentennial celebration, while Warner said preserving the route could provide long-term educational and economic benefits for local communities.
Next Steps
The legislation does not immediately create a National Historic Trail. Instead, it directs the Department of the Interior to determine whether the route meets federal criteria for designation.
If the study concludes the trail is suitable and Congress later approves the designation, Washington’s Trail would join a network of federally recognized historic routes managed through partnerships between federal agencies, states, local governments, and nonprofit organizations.
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