Even before the Declaration of Independence, a young George Washington was developing plans to improve opportunities for commerce between the Atlantic Seaboard and "the Western Country" by way of the Potomac River. The idea echoed the practices of native populations - the word "Potomac" is often said to derive from an Algonkian phrase meaning "place where things are brought," or "trading place."

Today, the designation of a Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail corridor, enacted and signed in 1983 as an amendment to the National Trails System Act, is being used by communities in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia and Pennsylvania to develop and make connections among trails, historic sites and a range of recreational and educational opportunities. Three trails are currently recognized as "official" segments of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail: the 184.5-mile C & O Canal Towpath, managed by Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park; the 17-mile Mount Vernon Trail, managed by George Washington Memorial Parkway; and the 75-mile Laurel Highlands Trail, managed by Laurel Ridge State Park, Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.

Existing trails are complemented by many local and regional trails, on land and water, with many more in the early stages of development. Local governments and citizens groups are using the corridor designation to support a variety of trail projects; to increase educational, conservation and development opportunities; and to realize benefits from the extensive growth in eco-tourism.

The section of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail (PHT) located in Virginia parallels the George Washington Memorial Parkway (GWMP) and extends from Theodore Roosevelt Island north to the American Legion Bridge. This ten mile stretch of the PHT, which winds along the Potomac River through the steep rocky hillsides of the palisades and through forested stream valleys, is maintained by members of the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club. Most of the route is fairly level, with short, steep ascents and descents. The many streams are crossed by stepping on rocks; they can be icy in winter and muddy year-round. Sycamore, oak, poplar, and beech trees shade most of the trail in summer. In every season of the year, the PHT offers hikers a tranquil walk through the "wilderness" inside the Beltway.