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Explore a Rail Trail

Take these steps to find and explore trails near you

By

Staying Sharp

Updated June 14, 2024

Updated June 14, 2024

A runner taking a knee to tie his shoe

Tetra Images / Getty Images

Quick Win

Spending time in nature has many pluses.

Try This Today

Go to railstotrails.org.
Find your "trail experience" by searching by "city/state/zip" or "trail name/keyword."
Select a rail trail that interests you and explore it by walking, biking, jogging or even in-line skating.

Why

Across the United States, the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy has converted thousands of miles of old rail corridors into trails. Science has shown that exercising in nature has many health benefits, such as improved mood and reduced stress. In its 2018 “Brain Health and Mental Well-Being” report, AARP’s Global Council on Brain Health recommends people “spend time outdoors to regularly appreciate and enjoy nature.”

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Legal Disclaimer: Staying Sharp, including all content and features, is offered for informational purposes and to educate users on brain health care and medical issues that may affect their daily lives. Staying Sharp is based on a holistic, lifestyle approach to brain health that encourages users to incorporate into their daily lives activities that are associated with general wellness. Nothing in the service should be considered, or used as a substitute for, medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Features including the Cognitive Assessment and Lifestyle Check-Ins, Additional Tests, exercises, and challenges assess performance at a particular moment in time on certain discrete cognitive tasks. Staying Sharp games are intended for entertainment and recreational purposes only. Various factors may affect performance, including sleep, tiredness, focus, and other social, environmental, or emotional factors. Performance is not indicative of cognitive health and not predictive of future performance or medical conditions.

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