State trail deserves U.S. distinction
Source: AZStarNet.com, by Dave Hicks
April 03, 2008
The Arizona Trail is an 807-mile panoramic pathway that weaves its way across Arizona from Mexico to Utah through some of our state's most spectacular scenery. As director of the Arizona Trail Association, I am often asked the status of federal legislation introduced in 2007 to designate the Arizona Trail a national scenic trail.
Congress does indeed move mysteriously, but national scenic trail designation is possible this year. But like the history of the Arizona Trail, it likely will take help from you to make that happen.
Last May, Arizona National Scenic Trail legislation was introduced by Sens. John McCain and Jon Kyl (S. 1304) and Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords (H.R. 2297). National scenic trail designation is the highest recognition for a U.S. trail.
The National Scenic Trail Act allows Congress to recognize long-distance trails that provide for the ever-increasing outdoor recreation needs of an expanding population near urban areas and within scenic areas, and along historic routes that are more remotely located. That sure describes our Arizona Trail.
In addition, the National Scenic Trail Act recognizes "the valuable contributions that volunteers and private and nonprofit trail groups have made to the development and maintenance of the nation's trails." That sure describes thousands of Arizona Trail workers and supporters.
The 807-mile Arizona Trail is different than most of the eight existing national scenic trails:
? At 94 percent complete, the Arizona Trail is more complete, percentage wise, than six of the existing national scenic trails.
? Since 99 percent of the Arizona Trail is on public land, no federal funds are needed to acquire private land and no federal appropriation is requested in the Arizona Trail bills.
? Only two national scenic trails are in the panoramic West.
In 1988, the first seven Arizona Trail miles were dedicated in the Kaibab National Forest, near Jacob Lake. The 250 people in attendance included Sen. Dennis DeConcini, Rep. Bob Stump, the head of the Forest Service, state of Arizona leaders, timber company officials, conservation club members and outdoor enthusiasts excited about something called the "Arizona Trail."
That group never envisioned the Arizona Trail as a path for themselves only. They dreamed of a trail for Arizona residents and visitors to enjoy today and tomorrow.
It's time to make the Arizona Trail a national scenic trail. Please contact your congressional leaders and urge them to pass Arizona National Scenic Trail legislation before Congress recesses this summer.
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