287-Mile Benton MacKaye Trail Moves Closer to Official National Scenic Status: Study Mandated Within One Year

The Benton MacKaye National Scenic Trail Feasibility Study Act of 2025 is a straightforward piece of legislation that could be a big deal for hikers, conservationists, and the economies of three states. Essentially, this bill doesn't designate a new trail; it orders the federal government to look into officially recognizing an existing one.

The Trailblazing Mandate

This Act requires the Secretary of Agriculture to conduct a formal feasibility study for designating the 287-mile Benton MacKaye Trail (BMT) as a National Scenic Trail. This path already exists, stretching across mountains and forests in Georgia, Tennessee, and North Carolina. The study is the crucial first step toward giving the BMT the same official status as trails like the Appalachian Trail or the Pacific Crest Trail. This isn't just a suggestion; Section 3 amends the National Trails System Act to specifically add the BMT to the list of trails that need this review, locking in the process.

Why This Matters for the Rest of Us

If you live near the southern Appalachians or enjoy hiking, this study is great news. The Benton MacKaye Trail is currently managed by a dedicated non-profit, the Benton MacKaye Trail Association, which the bill specifically mandates the Secretary must consult with during the study. Federal designation often means more resources for maintenance, better signage, and enhanced protection for the land it crosses, which is currently about 95% federal property. For small towns near the trailheads—think places in North Georgia or East Tennessee—official status could mean a tourism boost, bringing in more dollars from hikers buying gear, gas, food, and lodging.

Tight Deadline for the Feds

One of the most notable details in Section 3 is the timeline: the Secretary of Agriculture must complete and submit this study to Congress no later than one year after the Act is enacted. That’s a pretty fast turnaround for a federal study of a 287-mile trail and its economic and environmental impacts. While the speed is good for getting the ball rolling, it puts pressure on the Department of Agriculture to allocate resources quickly. For the average taxpayer, this means federal agencies will be spending time and money on this analysis over the next year, but it’s a necessary administrative cost to determine if a significant recreational asset qualifies for national recognition and protection.