Many of the trails in East Tennessee follow the original footsteps of the Indigenous People and wildlife that roamed this region prior to 1740. Sometimes called pathways, warpaths, and/ or traces, these trails served as trade and hunting routes for Native Americans, and later as pioneer paths for western settlements. Thanks to the efforts of public and private agencies such as the Tennessee Valley Authority, National Wilderness Act of 1964, state parks, and the National Park Service, miles of historic trails have been preserved for conservation and public recreation. On National Trails Day, the 9 Lakes of East Tennessee is highlighting five adventure trails to hike.