Navigating the Highlands Trail

Highlands Trail Blazes

The Highlands Trail is marked by teal diamond blazes (a turquoise/blue-green diamond shape) in many sections.

Trail Marking Exceptions

Because the Highlands Trail is often co-aligned with existing trails (in parks, preserves, etc.), you will sometimes see other blaze systems (i.e. white blazes, or signage of the co-aligned trail) used concurrently or where the trail diverges.

In addition to the blazes, there are three sign types used along the Trail:

Turquoise Trailhead Signs (to match the diamond blaze color)

Long-Distance Signs showing mileage to the Delaware River in one direction and the Hudson in the other

Directional Signs help with wayfinding at intersections with roads or at larger trailheads and parking areas.

In park or local trail areas, the Highlands Trail may follow pre-existing trails which have their own blaze colors, signage conventions, or markers. In those zones you’ll see a mixing of blaze styles.

Tips for Navigating the Trail

Always look up and ahead; trails sometimes meander or dodge obstacles, and the next blaze may not always be at eye-level.
At junctions or forks, expect double or offset blazes: a stacked blaze with the top one offset in the direction of the turn is a common convention.
Where co-alignment occurs, track both blaze types until the split — know which one is the HT vs the local trail.
Carry a map or guide and track mileage—blazes alone can’t replace route awareness.
Pay attention at road crossings, fields, or open areas where painted blazes may not be continuous; use signage and landscape features.
In segments with other blaze colors, confirm via guide, signage, or map direction that you remain on the correct route.

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