American Discovery 250 Relay in 2026

November 2025:

Our trail goes past hundreds of historic sites, so we are pleased to announce that the American Discovery Trail Society is planning a 6,800 mile coast to coast relay to help commemorate America’s 250th anniversary (1776-2026).

Participants in the American Discovery 250 Relay will sign up in advance to walk, run or ride specific sections of the trail, while others will simply join in on the day when the relay passes through.

The 35-year-old route passes near the homes of more than 40 million people, so relayers and participants will be from hundreds of communities in fifteen states, with opportunities for businesses, families, students, nursing home residents, and communities of all types to be involved.

There are many ways to learn about America. We welcome your involvement as a participant, sponsor, or simply an enthusiast who follows the relay from your couch at home!

To get involved, we have a simple form to express your interest. Those who fill in the form will be added to a special mailing list.

The 250 Relay will be our third nationwide event, with the first two occurring in 1990-91 and in 2000. Those were sponsored by numerous partners, including the American Hiking Society, AT&T, Backpacker Magazine, Cannon, Chevrolet, Coleman, DeLorme, Duofold, Ford, Kodak, Leki, Merrell, Mountainsmith, MSR, Nike, Nalgene, Nature Valley Granola, REI, Sierra Designs, Spenco, Teva, Trek, Wild Country USA, and Yakima.

Sponsors for 2026 are not yet confirmed.

For more information, see this one-page info sheet or contact us at relay@discoverytrail.org