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Ohio sponsors seek National Scenic Trail designation for Buckeye Trail
Summary
Representatives introduced House Concurrent Resolution 13 asking the National Park Service to study the Buckeye Trail for possible designation as a National Scenic Trail, citing its cross-state reach, recreation and tourism benefits; the committee held a first hearing and asked about concrete federal benefits.
Representative Hoops and Representative Robinson Jr. urged the Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee to support House Concurrent Resolution 13, calling for a National Park Service feasibility study to determine whether the Buckeye Trail qualifies as a National Scenic Trail.
The sponsors said the trail is a cross-state recreational route that touches 49 counties, 18 state parks and eight historical society properties and runs through Ohio’s only national forest. Testimony described the trail in rough terms as "14 50" miles during remarks; sponsors framed that as about 1,450 miles of continuous corridor and said designation would increase public access, conservation efforts and tourism dollars.
"Whether you're a runner, hiker, cyclist, or a walker like myself, a slow walker, the Buckeye Trail's roughly 14 50 miles offers breathtaking landscapes," a sponsor told the committee during opening testimony. The resolution asks the National Park Service to conduct an existing-conditions analysis, stakeholder outreach and public input leading to a feasibility report to the secretary of the interior.
Committee members asked what a national scenic designation delivers beyond recognition. Chair Schafer asked whether designation brings federal funding or other concrete benefits; a sponsor replied that it can bring funding, improved maintenance and broader awareness. Senator Liston asked whether the trail has the scale for a thru-hike comparable to the Appalachian or Pacific Crest trails; a sponsor answered that the Buckeye Trail is similarly impressive and could attract longer-distance users.
The House passed the concurrent resolution unanimously before the committee hearing, sponsors said. The committee held a first hearing on HCR 13; no committee vote was taken and no committee action was recorded at this meeting. The resolution’s next procedural step would depend on committee scheduling and the National Park Service’s response to any formal request for a feasibility study.
