WASHINGTON - U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords has introduced legislation granting National Scenic Trail designation to the Arizona Trail, a continuous, non-motorized trail running the length of the state.
“The Arizona Trail passes through some of the most stunning natural vistas in the world, from the saguaro-studded Sonoran Desert to the Grand Canyon,” the Tucson lawmaker said. “It is a true national treasure. Designation as a National Scenic Trail makes sense.”
The designation, which can be accomplished only by an act of Congress, will streamline management of the 800-mile trail by making a single federal agency responsible for its oversight. It does not require the expenditure of a single cent of federal funds.
In Southern Arizona, the trail runs through Pima, Santa Cruz and Cochise counties. It is used by thousands of hikers, mountain bikers and equestrians every year. A key segment running from the southern boundary of Saguaro National Park East to the foothills of the Santa Rita Mountains was recently completed.
Giffords celebrated this milestone on Saturday, May 12 by recognizing about 50 volunteers who donated their time and labor to make this popular section of trail a reality. Afterwards, Giffords took the opportunity to experience the trail on horseback with her fiancé, Navy Commander Mark Kelly.
Among the honored volunteers was Wendy Erica Werden, a member of the Arizona Trail Association Board who also belongs to the Tucson Saddle Club and the Saguaro Horsemen’s Association. She is a supporter of National Scenic Trail designation.
“The impressive thing about the Arizona Trail, is that the volunteers who have helped build it are as diverse as the lands the trail travels through from Mexico to Utah,” Werden said. “Volunteers from nearly every age, race, background, social status, and trail-user group found common ground working side by side to create this backcountry experience.”
The bill has been referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources for consideration. Below is a link to a story about the bill that ran Monday, May 14 on KUAT’s Arizona Illustrated.