The bipartisan Butterfield Overland National Historic Trail Designation Act labels 475 miles of Arizona land a national historic route
WASHINGTON – Arizona senior Senator Kyrsten Sinema cosponsored bipartisan legislation that would designate the Butterfield Overland Trail a national historic route that will boost economic development and increase recreational opportunities in southern Arizona.
“Designating 475 miles in Arizona as part of the historic Butterfield Overland Trail provides an exciting opportunity to expand jobs and recreation opportunities in Arizona,” said Sinema.
Sinema’s bipartisan Butterfield Overland National Historic Trail Designation Act labels approximately 3,292 miles – 475 miles of which run through Arizona – as a national historic route. The Butterfield Overland Trail, also known as the “Ox-bow Route,” was a postal and stagecoach route operated from near St. Louis, MO to San Francisco, CA from 1858 to 1861. After the Civil War, the route continued to be used until railroads to the west were completed in 1869.
Click HERE to see the trail’s map in Arizona.
The National Park Service conducted a study to evaluate the trail’s route, historic use, national significance, costs of administration, and potential for recreational use. The study found the Butterfield Overland Trail meets the criteria, being feasible and a desirable designation as a national historic trail.
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