Scottsboro nature trail added to the National Trails System

In celebration of Great Outdoors Month and National Trails Day  Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland announced the designation of Vernon Bush Garden Trail in Scottsboro (2302 County Park Road, Scottsboro, AL 35769) as a national recreation trail.

The Jackson County trail is one of nine trails nationally that were added to the 1300+  National Trails System.

An Honor

“It was an absolute honor just to be nominated, but to receive the designation as a National Recreation Trail is beyond words. To be included in this elite group is a privilege that I believe Mr. Bush would be proud of. He worked many hours on the gardens in the trail area, and this recognition is in part to his dedication to Jackson County Park as well as the many Master Gardeners that still work in the gardens today.”

Steven Pereira, Parks & Recreation Director,Jackson County Park & Marina

About Vernon Bush Garden Trail

Here is how the Department of Interior described the Vernon Bush Garden Trail in their national news release:

“The 1-mile Vernon Bush Garden Trail located in Jackson County, AL, provides residents and visitors alike the opportunity to exercise and reconnect with nature. The trail offers scenic lake views, picnic areas, and, most notably, a wide variety of plants species. The strategically landscaped and seasonal changes of the flowers and trees delivers a beautiful, ever changing experience for all.” 

A National Designation

National recreation trails are existing local or regional trails that are designated by either the Secretary of the Interior or the Secretary of Agriculture with the consent of the federal, state, Tribal, local, nonprofit or private managing entity. 

“This National Trails Day, I encourage everyone to explore one of the national scenic, historic or recreation trails that make up the National Trails System.. “These trails offer an abundance of opportunities to experience the breathtaking landscapes of our country, all while supporting outdoor recreation activities and boosting local economies.”

U.S. Secretary of Interior Deb Haaland

Joining the Veron Bush Garden Trail in Alabama were trails in Arkansas, Tennessee, Georgia, Utah, Illinois, Wisconsin, Texas and Oregon. The 2023 additions increased the National Trail System by 340 miles.