We’re thrilled to share some exciting news!
Today, legislation to study the feasibility for the Benton MacKaye Trail to become a National Scenic Trail was reintroduced in Congress. The Benton MacKaye National Scenic Trail Feasibility Study Act of 2025, introduced by Representatives Fleischmann and Cohen and Senators Tillis and Warnock, would direct the U.S. Forest Service to advance the process for formally designating the Benton MacKaye Trail as our country’s 12th National Scenic Trail.
This is a major step forward for the Benton MacKaye Trail Association and everyone who cherishes the beauty, solitude, and challenge the trail offers. The study will evaluate the trail’s scenic, natural, and recreational value, which tens of thousands of hikers already enjoy every year, and to consider how best to protect it for future generations.
Completed in 2005, from the trail’s origins in Georgia’s highlands to its journey through eastern Tennessee and into western North Carolina, the BMT spans some of the most majestic, breathtaking, and ecologically rich landscapes in the eastern U.S. Since we began this work in 1980, our volunteers worked tirelessly to build the trail and to maintain this trail. We’re proud that this effort has earned national recognition.
We are beyond grateful to our bipartisan champions in Congress and to our community of hikers, volunteers, and supporters. Please take a moment to thank our sponsors for their leadership on this issue!
