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H.R. 5926, The Pacific Northwest National Scenic Trail Act of 2008 (123 comments ↓ | 3 wiki edits)
- This item is from the 110th Congress (2007-2008) and is no longer current. Comments, voting, and wiki editing have been disabled, and the cost/savings estimate has been frozen.
H.R. 5926 would amend the National Trails System Act to designate the Pacific Northwest National Scenic Trail.
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Visitor Comments
Arthur Reinhardt
May 2, 2008, 12:55pm (report abuse)Designation as a National Scenic Trail is long overdue for the Pacific Northwest Trail. The quality of the trail is a direct result of countless volunteer hours in combination with the cooperation of businesses and government.
Jon Knechtel
May 2, 2008, 5:57pm (report abuse)For all the volunteers who have been working 20,000 plus hours a year to maintain the Pacific Northwest Trail this legislation is long over due. Not taking anything away from the other trails, the PNT passes through some of the most spectacular country in the lower 48.
Dave Hess
May 2, 2008, 6:12pm (report abuse)Having personally hiked hundreds of miles of the Pacific Northwest Trail, I find the trail unmatched in scenic beauty as it moves through and between three National Parks, several wilderness areas and many sections of historical significance.
mike doherty
May 2, 2008, 9:28pm (report abuse)The PNT crosses the best of the Great Northwest. Lifetime memories will be formed along this route.
Ken Rosencrantz
May 2, 2008, 10:22pm (report abuse)I have hiked parts of the trail and worked on many parts of the trail mostly in Skagit County Washington. This trail is simply beautiful and is being constantly upgraded by volunteers, many of them are in their 80's. The trail definitely needs to be recognized as a Nationl Scenic Trail because it has gained so much support from many groups over tha last few years.
Robert Blunk
May 2, 2008, 10:36pm (report abuse)The Pacific Northwest Trail is a natural asset that will benefit from the recognition and support that National Scenic Trail designation would bring. I urge our Congress to support the bill to bring this about.
James Yalden
May 2, 2008, 10:56pm (report abuse)As a staff member of Cascades Job Corps Center I have orgazised over several years more than 130 of our students who have contributed over 5,000 hours to PNTA. It is a wonderful learning experience for our students who are proud of the contribitution they have made to this wonderful natural treasure. Let us preserve this treasure.
Carl F. Loeb
May 3, 2008, 2:15pm (report abuse)I strongly support this bill. The NW Trail is an important link to our regional history. The incredible effort put into maintaining and enhancing this trail is testimony to the best of American volunteerism. Congress should do what it can to support this effort.
Keith Magee
May 3, 2008, 2:53pm (report abuse)Designation of the Pacific Northwest Trail as a national scenic trail is long overdue. This trail was developed with the hard work of many volunteers and the assistance of Government agencies. The trail already exists, and it runs through some of the most beautiful scenery in the United States. Parts of the trail are are historical significance. Please pass this bill.
Douglas Walker
May 3, 2008, 4:06pm (report abuse)The Pacific Northwest Trail transects an amazing variety of historical, geographic, demographic, climatic and geological zones making it more varied and dynamic than any other trail in the National Scenic Trail system. The multiuse nature of the trail along with a combination of wilderness and very accessible areas create a trail that meets the needs of a wide variety of users. My personal experience on the PNT is as a volunteer trail maintenance worker and as an educator leading groups of young people on work projects and learning experiences. We have changed lives and made valued memories for hundreds of young people along the length of the PNT. Help make this a legacy for future generations by voting for Scenic Trail status. Thank you.
Hugh Kendrick
May 3, 2008, 10:54pm (report abuse)The Pacific Northwest Trail enriches the lives of my wife & me in many ways. Hiking it with friends has introduced us to the beauty and culture of the Pacific Northwest, surely one of the most beautiful places on the planet. Helping to maintain it with so many dedicated people has schooled us immigrants in the wonderful traditions of American volunteerism.Please pass this bill and assure the Trail's existence for future generations.
Barb Knechtel
May 4, 2008, 1:48am (report abuse)As a part time volunteer on the PNT, the beauty of the trail and the land it traverses are unbelievable. For those of us who use the PNT, as well as help maintain the trail, it would be fantastic to see the PNT become part of the National Trail System.
charles eaton
May 4, 2008, 9:02am (report abuse)This is a very beautiful and popular trail. I would urge Congress to do their part to see that it becomes part of the National Trail System.
Duane & Joan Melcher
May 4, 2008, 11:27am (report abuse)Because of the great scenery and wildness of the trail, because of the opportunity to see how people live & earn their living in the communities along the trail, because of the educational and volunteer opportunities for people of all ages, because of the economic benefits to the towns along the trail, and because of the people and businesses who have kept the dream alive for over 30 years, please pass this bill!
Nate Melanson
May 4, 2008, 4:00pm (report abuse)The Pacific Northwest Trail is a trail that I have seen inspire many of our local youth. Helping to preserve this trail will be helping to promote future generations to be environmentally conscience in their lives. Anyone who has spent time on this trail can attest to the great benefit it has on the local communities around it.
Ellie Braman
May 4, 2008, 11:34pm (report abuse)As a PNT volunteer, I SO want to see this trail receive national recognition so more people will know about how incredible it is. Our daughter's first real job was as a SKY crew member, on this trail, and she learned a lot about work and about her own abilities.
Naomi Alloway
May 5, 2008, 12:04am (report abuse)I've often heard the comment that nature is God's second Bible, not perfect but there for all of us to learn from and absorb if we will. I choose to learn and absorb and so earnestly hope this bill passes.
John Seehorn
May 5, 2008, 10:32am (report abuse)As the reality of the carbon dioxide / global warming issue starts to sink in on all of us, this is one way our lawmakers can make a difference by promoting a family oriented, carbon neutral recreational experience as simple as a walk in the forest. For myself I am learning that this is a way to enjoy one of America’s natural resources while not increasing our dependence on foreign oil and all the issues entailed in procuring it.
Lynn Postler
May 5, 2008, 2:53pm (report abuse)Hiking along the Pacific Northwest Trail I have seen black bears, elk, deer, cougar (tracks), eagles, and marmots. The wildflowers in summer are spectacular. The old growth forests are awesome! This trail is a TREASURE for all of us and should be given NST status. I vote YES!
Chris Branch
May 5, 2008, 5:20pm (report abuse)For small rural communities, like Oroville, WA, this trail is more than just a walk in the forest.
Sam Haraldson
May 5, 2008, 7:29pm (report abuse)The addition of the Pacific Northwest Trail to the National Scenic Trail system of America would be fitting with the intention of the National Trail Systems Act of 1968. The inclusion of the Pacific Northwest trail would promote the preservation of, public access to, travel within, and enjoyment and appreciation of the open-air, outdoor areas and historic resources of the Pacific Northwest.
Bill Gurwell
May 5, 2008, 10:22pm (report abuse)Having hiked other National Scenic Trails (PCT, AT & CDT) and the PNT, I recognize the uniquely variable scenery, remoteness and beauty of the PNT. That's why the PNT deserves to be designated a National Scenic Trail.
Peggy Ratermann
May 6, 2008, 11:35am (report abuse)The PNT is a national treasure, and a hike or run along it is one of the best ways to spend time with family and friends. The scenery is varied, the wildflowers are beautiful, and what better way to cut down on our oil dependence as well as promote a healthy lifestyle! It definitely needs to be part of the National Scenic Trail system.
Mike Woodmansee
May 6, 2008, 5:52pm (report abuse)Like many others, I've hiked and trekked extensively along the PNT,PCT and many other wilderness trails. HB 5926 simply states the obvious, the PNT is a national scenic trail and designation as such is long over due. I applaud those people who created the PNT as well as our congressional representative for sponsoring this bill.
Rocky DeVon
May 7, 2008, 1:35am (report abuse)A lot of people from all walks of life have come together to convert this from a dream and some lines on a map to a community builder. It has been an honor and a privilege to see the work by so many people coming to fruition. Please vote to support the designation.
Joseph P. Young
May 8, 2008, 5:43pm (report abuse)Having thru-hiked the PNT in 2006, I can vouch for its immense beauty and value. However, much of the eastern portion is neglected, and too much of the whole is along roads, some of which are very dangerous. Please vote to designate the PNT as a National Scenic Trail; this will help this trail receive the care it needs.
Daniel Collins
May 8, 2008, 6:21pm (report abuse)The Pacific Northwest National Scenic Trail has a good ring to it! From idea to reality and 28 years in the making, this trail and all those volunteers who have built it speak to one of the finest aspects in American culture - grassroots efforts persist and often succeed!
Ron Strickland
May 8, 2008, 7:02pm (report abuse)Obviously the Pacific Northwest Trail is a superb outdoor recreation resource. It is also a vital link in the transcontinental Sea-To-Sea Route. I hope that Congress will pass the PNT bill this year.
Erik Rohrer
May 8, 2008, 7:43pm (report abuse)The Pacific Northwest Trail is vital to many rural Washington communities, where there is a shift toward a sustainable economy that includes a major tourism component. Supporting this world-class trail seems like a "no-brainer" to me, since the trail is already well-established and the timing is clearly right for encouraging healthy, human-powered activities such as hiking. Please support H.R. 5926!
Mike McGlenn
May 8, 2008, 8:04pm (report abuse)I and my friends with the Back Country Horsemen have ridden and worked on this trail. BCH has packed in tools and supplies to assist the PNWT group. It is a great trail and deserves to be supported with this bill. Please pass it.
Anthony Culpepper
May 8, 2008, 8:59pm (report abuse)Having thru-hiked the PNT in 2006, I can attest to the fact that the PNT is in great need of NST status and the associated funding. It was an excellent hike however much of the "trail" is nonexistent. Having NST status will hopefully spur the completion of this vital link between the NW and the CDT. A complete PNT would provide an extended wilderness opportunity to many in the NW.
Greg Halberg
May 8, 2008, 9:33pm (report abuse)Please support this trail. It is an important piece of the economic puzzle on the Olympic Peninsula.
Jeff Chapman
May 8, 2008, 9:38pm (report abuse)As an Olympic Peninsula resident in Washington for most of my life, and engaged in outdoor trail-based recreation the entire time, this is a very special bill to me. I live on the trail - a segment on which once ran a fine freight train, and after the tracks were pulled, my horses ran on the land, and now, after my horses have been sectioned off, a fine community corridor has been built for children to grow up along, for folks to bicycle on, and for Americans to still ride their horses or backpack over, continuing on their way to new adventures under the shadow of the great Olympic Mountains. Give my horses some carrots when you pass. It is a beautiful trail as it meanders up into the mountains, and should be a National Scenic Trail.
jeanne koester
May 9, 2008, 10:39am (report abuse)Designating PNT as a National Scenic Trail is one of the best proposals I have reviewed in a long time. Please add this gem to Washington's outdoor resources and this will preserve PNT for perpetuity.
Christina Maginnis
May 9, 2008, 2:22pm (report abuse)After hiking sections of the Pacific Northwest Trail on Blanchard Mountain and Hannegan pass, with breath-taking overlooks and beautiful forests, I fully support this trail becoming a National Scenic Trail. It's time to recognize this gem for its environmental value for wildlife, and recreational value for people. Thank you to those who created the PNT as well as our congressional representative for sponsoring this bill.
Kent Chasson
May 9, 2008, 3:03pm (report abuse)Having grown up hiking one of the first National Scenic Trails, the Appalachian Trail, I can attest to the value of the national status associated with the designation. As a Washington resident for the last 23 years, I would love to see the PNT included in this list of national treasures.
Carlie Casey
May 9, 2008, 4:21pm (report abuse)I have hiked 1300+ miles of the Appalachian Trail--most with my father after he retired--and several hundreds of miles on the Pacific Crest. As a resident of Washington State the past 20 years, I have hiked a lot of the PCT as well as the newer PNT. It is a treasure. Please support making it a National Scenic Trail.
Juelie Dalzell
May 10, 2008, 11:11am (report abuse)As a 30 year resident of the Olympic Peninsula I recognize how important this designation is to promote ecotourism in our beautiful but impoverished communities.
Janis Allen
May 10, 2008, 12:14pm (report abuse)The PNT passes through some of the most beautiful country we have to offer. My mother gives many hours a year volunteer work on this trail keeping it clean, free of debris and safe for hikers to use. My father works relentlessy everyday to make the PNT usable, gaining support and ensuring that the PNT is an enjoyable experience by those who wish to use the PNT. This trail really deserves the support of this bill as do all the people who have put in many hours of hard work to make this trail the treasure it is today.
Harly Drum
May 10, 2008, 1:31pm (report abuse)I thru-hiked the PNT with my brother in 2005 and agree with everyone who commented that it needs some work. As a resident of NE Washington I would like to see more people become aware of the trail. I think making the PNT a National Scenic Trail would help with both of these issues. Please support keeping the wilderness experience alive in the Pacific Northwest.
Kevin Allen
May 10, 2008, 2:07pm (report abuse)Many people work very hard to maintain and improve this vital part of our country and recognizing this trail as a National Scenic Trail is not only the proper thing to do for those that have enjoyed it and will continue to enjoy it in the future, but is a proper recognition for the countless hours that have been spent by those that have worked to make it what it is today and will become in the future.
Lori Lennox
May 11, 2008, 12:43pm (report abuse)The PNT deserves the National Scenic Trail dsignation. This will both bring it more recognition and will also help preserve and enhance this special trail.
Bozena Janas
May 11, 2008, 7:16pm (report abuse)When visiting my cousin in the State of Washington, I really look forward to the work parties on the Pacific Northwest Trail as well as hiking this majestic trail. A lot of great volunteers have done a beautiful job keeping this trail up. Hopefully Congress will see fit to give the PNT its due and designate the trail.
Fred Hannamen
May 11, 2008, 8:36pm (report abuse)The Ross lake to Mt. Baker section alone is worthy of nat. scenic trail. Please pass this bill
Mayor Tara Leininger
May 12, 2008, 1:56pm (report abuse)Our community of Metaline Falls sits in one of the most beautiful areas along the Pend Oreille River in the most northeast corner of Washington State. The Scenic Trail designation would not only protect the region but invite others to enjoy it - and we want many more to come explore and experience what we live with daily. The PNT deserves our support as they support our woods and wilderness.
Jeannette Chrisley
May 12, 2008, 4:10pm (report abuse)With the rising fuel costs, an increasingly number of individuals and groups will be looking for a more economical means of recreation and education. The use of the PNT has and will continue rise also. Recognition and support is essential in bringing awareness of a spectacular natural resource for current and many generations to come.
Mary Owens
May 12, 2008, 9:53pm (report abuse)Making the Pacific Northwest Trail a National Scenic Trail will help preserve the trail for use by everyone now and in the future.
Otto Nebel
May 12, 2008, 10:12pm (report abuse)The Pacific Northwest trail is truly a scenic treasure and deserves a national scenic trail designation.
Greg Peterka
May 12, 2008, 10:21pm (report abuse)This is a worthy project.
Thank you,
Greg Peterka
Past Pres., Fidalgo Fly Fishers
Mount Vernon
Ted Hitzrith
May 13, 2008, 2:05am (report abuse)Having hiked the entire Pacific Northwest Trail, I can attest that it easily meets the high scenic and cultural standards embodied by the currently designated National Scenic Trails. It provides recreational and educational opportunities, while showcasing the diversity of the Pacific Northwest region. In addition, the PNT links the northern ends of the Pacific Crest and Continental Divide National Scenic Trails, creating a true system of connected national footways. I strongly encourage the members of the 110th Congress to enact this worthy legislation.
Connie Hoge
May 13, 2008, 11:21am (report abuse)The Pacific NW trail is one of the treasurers of our Country. Such incredible beauty needs to be saved not only for our pleasure, but for that of future generations
Sharon Pawlowicz
May 13, 2008, 3:49pm (report abuse)Definitely need to save this marvelous resource we have.
Carol Curtis
May 13, 2008, 7:42pm (report abuse)Please pass this bill. The trail already exists, and it runs through some of the most beautiful scenery in our country. It's a treasure that should be enjoyed by those who appreciate such beauty.
Margaret Stapleton
May 13, 2008, 8:11pm (report abuse)This trail is an important part of what the Pacific Northwest is all about. I have hiked many portions of it and it should be a National Scenic Trail. Please pass this bill.
Paul Fior
May 13, 2008, 8:13pm (report abuse)The addition of the PNT to the NST system is a natural. Its length includes some of the most scenic portions of the Pacific NW. It deserves both the recognition and the contribution to maintenance and preservation that we hope will come with its inclusion in the NST system.
Wendy Gray
May 13, 2008, 10:09pm (report abuse)The PNT should be part of the National Scenic Trails system - it is certainly some of the most spectacular scenery in the United States and much effort has been expended to ensure members of the public can access and enjoy its beauty via recreational hiking trails. Please recognize and help maintain this national resource by supporting the Bill.
Steve Jahn
May 13, 2008, 10:36pm (report abuse)Please pass trail legislation
Charlotte Morgan
May 14, 2008, 8:45am (report abuse)Please pass this legislation. We need these public trails, particularly such a one that accesses the great diversity of natural settings as this one does.
Malcolm Madenwald
May 14, 2008, 12:02pm (report abuse)It would be tragic if The Pacific Northwest Trail (PNT) was NOT a part of The National Scenic Trail System. It is spectacular!!!! Please support it any way possible and make it happen!!
Myra McEwan
May 14, 2008, 2:20pm (report abuse)What a great opportunity This is some of the best and most accessible hiking in the world. Please support!
Jessica Bradley
May 14, 2008, 7:17pm (report abuse)The Pacific Northwest Trail is an awesome trail and it should be included in the National Scenic Trail System. Please listen to the people and pass the trail bill!
Don Bottles
May 14, 2008, 10:42pm (report abuse)My midwest relatives always want to hike this trail when they visit because there is nothing like the remoteness, trees, mountains, natural scenic areas and wildness in most of rest of the nation.
Hugh Campbell
May 15, 2008, 12:26pm (report abuse)As an active volunteer on the Pacific Northwest Trail I support its designation as part of the National Scenic Trail System. Such would guarantee its availability for current and future generations of users. Please pass this action.
Sandy Koffman
May 15, 2008, 4:26pm (report abuse)The PNT offers everything one could hope for in a hiking experience. Designating it as a National Scenic Trail would raise awareness of its existence -- and of the many volunteers devoted to its maintenance and improvement -- and encourage more people to enjoy this abundance of natural beauty and outdoor opportunity.
Rebecca Dierst
May 15, 2008, 7:54pm (report abuse)I support PNT and the designation of the National Scenic Trail System as this would guarantee its availability for everyone now and in the future.
Trygve Culp
May 16, 2008, 2:28am (report abuse)The Pacific Northwest Trail is a national treasure - it passes through some of the most spectacularly beutiful areas in the country. That the route has not been designated a National Scenic Trail before now is shameful.
Gene Kiver
May 16, 2008, 10:45am (report abuse)The amazing scenery and experiences available along this trail needs to be recognized nationally. The trail is already there, let's make it official!
steve roll
May 16, 2008, 11:19am (report abuse)Please pass this bill, National Scenic Trail status is long over due for this magnificent trail.
Carolyn McCarthy
May 17, 2008, 11:35pm (report abuse)Please award the Pacific Northwest Trail status as a National Scenic Trail and preserve this beautiful spot. Thank you.
Merle Segault
May 19, 2008, 7:21pm (report abuse)Please pass this bill. Having assisted Ron Strickland by mapping out the Whidbey Island portion of the Pacific Northwest Trail some thirty years ago, it has long been my desire to see the PNT recieve the designation of National Scenic Trail. bringing near closure to the official establishment of this beautiful hiking trail as a national treasure. Thank you for your consideration.
Eva Paquette
May 19, 2008, 7:26pm (report abuse)The Pacific Northwest trail deserves the designation of National Scenice trail. I hiked it East to West and would love to see it gain attention and preservation.
Mark Locke
May 19, 2008, 7:31pm (report abuse)Passage of this bill is the logical next step in maintaining the legacy that began so many years ago. The fervent efforts of countless, tireless volunteers has continued for so long as all who have been involved recognize that this trail is truly a national treasure. I strongly support passage of H.R. 5926.
Kevin Koski
May 19, 2008, 7:37pm (report abuse)Lets promote healthy activities by designating the PNT another National Scenic Trail, and with such a designation awarness about hiking and its health benefits may benefit the citizens.
Erin Dennis
May 19, 2008, 8:07pm (report abuse)I've always enjoyed hiking along the wonderful trails that Washington has to offer. It would be a shame not to protect and preserve this wonderful piece of land so that we (and future generations) can enjoy it forever.
David Minaglia
May 19, 2008, 8:16pm (report abuse)A trail worthy of National Scenic Trail status connecting several federally designated wilderness areas, national parks, a connector to the Sea-To-Sea Route, and an east-west trail to connect the Pacific Crest and Continental Divide National Scenic Trails.
Jay Hunston, Jr.
May 19, 2008, 10:16pm (report abuse)The PNT is a true national treasure. It has been maintained privately over the years, through donations of money and time, and deserves designation as part of the National Scenic Trails.
Mayrus Helberg
May 19, 2008, 11:44pm (report abuse)Please pass this trail legislation. In these trying times, walking trails like PNT calm the mind and lift the spirit.
melody ghirardini
May 20, 2008, 8:29am (report abuse)Please support H.R. 5926. To hike the PNT is to witness nature at it's finest.
Pam Pritzl
May 20, 2008, 9:57am (report abuse)Please amend the National Trails System Act to designate the PNT as part of the National Scenic Trails system. This is a unique opportunity to preserve a wonderful trail system.
Marilyn Schrum
May 20, 2008, 3:36pm (report abuse)I support this legislation - please
designate the PNT as part of the National Scenic Trails system.