Daines-Heinrich Bill Completing Continental Divide National Scenic Trail One Step Closer to Becoming Law

• December 18, 2025

U.S. SENATE - U.S. Senator Steve Daines announced that his bipartisan bill directing the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Department of the Interior to prioritize completion of the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail (CDT) passed the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) is the co-lead on Daines' bill.

"Our outdoor way of life is something that brings Montanans together, and as an avid hiker and backpacker myself, completing the Continental Divide Trail is a huge win for our state. It will support local jobs, boost economic development for gateway communities, and increase public access to Montana's natural beauty. I'm thrilled to see my bill pass out of committee and will fight to get it across the finish line," said Daines.

Background:

Designated by Congress as part of the National Trail System in 1978, the CDT stretches more than 3,000 miles and passes through Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, New Mexico, and Idaho. The trail follows the Continental Divide and transverses some of the nation's most treasured natural, historic, and cultural resources.

Daines has been fighting to complete the trail since 2022- read past press releases HERE and HERE.

The Continental Divide Trail Completion Act would:

• Direct the Secretary of Agriculture and the Secretary of the Interior to establish a Trail Completion Team
• Recognize the value of cooperation between federal land managers, states, Tribes, towns, and others
• Ensure that eminent domain will not be used to complete the trail

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