Abstract Background Although patient navigation has shown promise for increasing participation in colorectal cancer (CRC) screening and follow-up, little evidence is available to guide implementation of patient navigation in clinical practice. We characterize eight patient navigation programs being implemented as part of multi-component interventions of the National Cancer Institute's Cancer MoonshotSM Accelerating Colorectal Cancer Screening and Follow-Up Through Implementation Science (ACCSIS) initiative. Methods We developed a data collection template organized by ACCSIS framework domains. The template was populated by a representative from each of the eight ACCSIS research projects. We report standardized descriptions of 1) the socio-ecological context in which the navigation program was being conducted; 2) navigation program characteristics; 3) activities undertaken to facilitate program implementation (eg, training); and 4) outcomes used in program evaluation. Results ACCSIS patient navigation programs varied broadly in their socio-ecological context and settings, the populations they served, and in how they were implemented in practice. Six research projects adapted and implemented evidence-based patient navigation programs; the remaining projects developed new programs. Five projects began navigation when patients were due for initial CRC screening; three projects began navigation later in the screening process, when patients were due for follow-up colonoscopy after an abnormal stool-test result. Seven projects relied on existing clinical staff to deliver the navigation; one hired a centralized research navigator. All projects plan to evaluate effectiveness and implementation of their programs. Discussion Our detailed program descriptions may facilitate cross-project comparisons and guide future implementation and evaluation of patient navigation programs in clinical practice. Clinicaltrials.gov registration numbers Oregon: NCT04890054 North Carolina: NCT044067 San Diego: NCT04941300 Appalachia: NCT04427527 Chicago: NCT0451434 Oklahoma: Not registered Arizona: Not registered New Mexico: Not registered