The 2023 Arizona budget includes a historic $500,000 investment in the Arizona National Scenic Trail. The bipartisan budget shows the dedication of elected officials to support outdoor recreation and conservation efforts. 

Senator David Gowan (LD-19) sponsored the original appropriation bill. “The Arizona Trail is a gem within our state and creates an incredible opportunity for people of all shapes, sizes, abilities and walks of life to explore the diverse, natural beauty of our lands. The trail also contributes to the tourism dollars that help keep our state’s economy thriving. I’m proud to have prioritized funding within our latest state budget to support the maintenance and preservation of this trail for future generations.”

The Arizona Trail continues to have widespread bipartisan support throughout the state. “Arizonans and visitors to our great state deserve to have access and to enjoy all the special public lands we have to offer,” said says Representative Mariana Sandoval (LD-23). “Spain has ‘El Camino de Santiago’ and we have the Arizona Trail, one of the most scenic and geographically diverse long-distance trails in the world. The $500,000 appropriation for the Arizona Trail Fund will help preserve and protect this national treasure for future generations. I am also grateful to the Arizona Trail Association for their stewardship and for understanding that sacred sites must be acknowledged and respected, and for educating everyone on their website that this trail is on ancestral lands of indigenous people. Our quality of life, history, culture, and public health depend on these important natural resources.” 

Show Your Appreciation

We encourage all Arizonans to reach out to their Senators and Representatives, as well as Governor Hobbs, to say thank you for supporting the Arizona Trail.