The Benton MacKaye Trail may soon become America’s 12th National Scenic Trail.
In 2021, a grassroots effort launched to get the BMT named a National Scenic Trail. In June, that effort gained bi-partisan congressional support in a new bill introduced in the U.S. House.
A National Scenic Trail is generally defined as a footpath that extends for 100 miles or more and showcases exceptional terrain and recreation opportunity.
“The natural beauty of the BMT makes it worthy of such a designation. The trail’s emerald-green forests, stunning vistas, rippling streams and rushing waterfalls are just part of the stunning beauty found in the Southern Appalachian Mountains,” Ken Cissna, president of the Benton MacKaye Trail Association, said in a release.
But regardless of whether or not the BMT receives national designation, the trail is worth exploring — and with over 287 scenic miles, it boasts ample opportunities to do so.