The Shapiro Administration is moving forward with plans to establish the 9/11 National Memorial Trail across Pennsylvania in time for the 25th anniversary of the September 11th attacks next year — a route that will pass directly through Berks County.
The 1,500-mile trail is designed to connect the World Trade Center in New York, the Pentagon in Washington, D.C., and the Flight 93 Memorial in Somerset County. In Pennsylvania alone, the trail covers nearly 900 miles across 25 counties and 129 municipalities.
Locally, the route is expected to include key segments through Womelsdorf, Reading, Shoemakersville, and Hamburg, offering Berks County residents and visitors the opportunity to walk, bike, and reflect while honoring those lost on September 11, 2001.
PennDOT and the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) are working with municipalities to install nearly 750 trail signs statewide, each marked with the National Memorial Trail logo, a bicycle symbol, and the designation “9-11 NMT.” The signage is set to be in place ahead of the anniversary in 2026.
“Pennsylvania is proud to honor the heroes who ran towards danger to keep Americans safe and remember the lives lost on September 11, 2001,” Governor Josh Shapiro said in the announcement. “The 9/11 National Memorial Trail provides a meaningful way for communities across our Commonwealth to connect, reflect, and pay tribute.”
The initiative has also received support from the 9/11 National Memorial Trail Alliance and from families directly affected by the attacks. “The trail gives families like mine the opportunity to walk the path and remember our loved ones that we lost on September 11, 2001, and enjoy the beauty of Pennsylvania,” said Debby Borza, a board member of the Alliance.
In addition to honoring the memory of the victims and first responders, officials say the trail will enhance Pennsylvania’s already extensive network of more than 12,000 miles of trails, supporting local economies and encouraging outdoor recreation.
Communities can view the planned trail route, including its passage through Berks County, by visiting 911trail.org.
