FOLLOW THE LANDSCAPE. DISCOVER THE STORY.

Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trail

America’s stories are written into its landscapes.
Header: During the 50th Anniversary Walking Classroom event participants marched nearly 54-miles from Selma to Montgomery. · NPS Photo · Public domain, NPS · Photo credits
PLACES THAT KEEP THE PAST CLOSE

A story worth following.

Visit the landscapes of the 1965 voting-rights marches. The Edmund Pettus Bridge, interpretive centers and Montgomery sites connect courage, organizing and sacrifice with the ongoing story of civil rights.

50th Anniversary Walking Classroom Participants.
During the 50th Anniversary Walking Classroom event participants marched nearly 54-miles from Selma to Montgomery.
NPS Photo · Public domain, NPS
Marching with a purpose.
Hundreds March Through The Streets of Montgomery.
NPS Photo · Public domain, NPS
BUILD YOUR OWN CHAPTER

Places to begin

  • Edmund Pettus Bridge
  • Lowndes Interpretive Center
  • Alabama State Capitol area

Suggested starting points, not a turn-by-turn route. Choose a manageable local section; stops may be far apart.

Make the visit work for you

Allow substantial time for exhibits and reflection. Confirm interpretive-center schedules and suitable group parking.

Give the story time

Allow time for interpretation, a short walk and conversations. One well-chosen historic place can be more rewarding than a rushed list of stops.

Bring your group comfortably

Confirm parking, restrooms, walking surfaces and group reservations with each site. A historic trail designation does not guarantee coach access.

Official visitor information ↗

U.S. visits only. Historic routes may cross private property or have disconnected public sections. Official links provide current maps, access and operating information. Photographs may show earlier conditions.