Benton MacKaye National Scenic Trail Feasibility Study Act of 2026

119th Congress Introduced by Steve Cohen and 3 co-sponsors

HR 2768 authorizes a feasibility study for the Benton MacKaye Trail, assessing its ecological value and potential economic benefits for local communities and outdoor enthusiasts.

Received in the Senate. Read twice. Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 426.

Purpose and Intent

The Benton MacKaye National Scenic Trail Feasibility Study Act of 2025 aims to authorize a comprehensive feasibility study for the establishment of the Benton MacKaye National Scenic Trail as a designated national scenic trail. This initiative seeks to evaluate the potential benefits, challenges, and logistics of designating the trail, which spans approximately 300 miles through the Appalachian region, primarily in Georgia, North Carolina, and Tennessee.

Key Provisions

Feasibility Study: The bill mandates the Secretary of the Interior to conduct a feasibility study to assess:

The ecological and recreational value of the Benton MacKaye Trail.
The potential impacts on local communities and economies.
The necessary resources and funding required for the trail's designation and maintenance.

Public Involvement: The study will include opportunities for public input, ensuring that local stakeholders, including residents and outdoor enthusiasts, can contribute their perspectives and insights.

Report Submission: Upon completion of the study, the Secretary of the Interior is required to submit a report to Congress detailing the findings and recommendations regarding the trail's designation.

Affected Parties

Local Communities: Residents and businesses along the proposed trail route may experience economic opportunities through increased tourism and outdoor recreation.

Outdoor Enthusiasts: Hikers, campers, and nature lovers would benefit from enhanced access to scenic landscapes and recreational activities.

Environmental Organizations: Groups focused on conservation and outdoor recreation may be engaged in the study process and subsequent advocacy for the trail's designation.

Procedural Aspects

Introduced Date: The bill was introduced in the House on April 9, 2025.

Committee Referral: It has been referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources for further consideration.

Companion Bill: There is a related companion bill, S 1376, which is being considered in the Senate, indicating bipartisan interest in the initiative.

Conclusion

HR 2768 represents a significant step towards potentially designating the Benton MacKaye Trail as a national scenic trail. By conducting a thorough feasibility study, the bill aims to ensure that the trail can be developed in a way that maximizes its benefits while addressing any challenges that may arise. The outcome of this study could have lasting implications for conservation, recreation, and local economies in the regions surrounding the trail.

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