TRAIL OF TEARS
NATIONAL HISTORIC TRAIL
Administered by the National Park Service

Auto Tour Route

The map below illustrates the Trail of Tears National Historic Trail as it is currently interpreted by the National Park Service. Auto tour route highways, closely following the historic land routes, are marked with the official Trail marker to aid you in visiting Trail sites. The National Historic Trail does not include marked highways in North Carolina. As seen on the map, western North Carolina is included only to mark the boundaries of the Cherokee Nation in 1838.

Certified Trail Sites

Non-federal historic sites, Trail segments, and interpretive facilities become part of the Trail of Tears National Historic Trail through certification-a voluntary process in which an owner or manager agrees to adhere to National Park Service standards for resources preservation and public enjoyment. Updated lists of certified sites and facilties are issued periodically by the National Park Service's Long Distance Trails Group Office - Santa Fe.

Non-certified Sites and Facilities

State, county, and city parks along the Trail route preserve Trail resources. Although not yet certified, they are open for public use.  Some sites on the Trail of Tears are privately owned, while many sites are on or along existing highways. Consult guidebooks and ask permission before going on private land.

BACKGROUND

PROGRAM MISSION

CHAPTER NEWS & INFORMATION

THE TRAIL TODAY

HISTORY

OTHER SITES

HOME