Recreational Trails Program
Recreational Trails Program supports Utah trail project sponsors with construction, restoration, facilities, equipment, and education funding to improve public trails, safety, and environmental protection.
Funder: Division of Outdoor Recreation
Due Dates: January 15, 2027 (Application opens) | February 15, 2027 (Early review) | March 1, 2027 (Application closes) | July 15, 2027 (Annual reimbursement, if applicable)
Funding Amounts: $10,000–$200,000 per award; 28-month project contract; minimum 20% match
Summary: Federal funding for Utah recreational trail construction, restoration, maintenance, facilities, equipment, acquisition, and trail-related education.
Key Information: Cost-reimbursement program: sponsors must cover initial expenses and wait for a signed contract before beginning work.
Description
The Recreational Trails Program (RTP) is administered in Utah by the Division of Outdoor Recreation, with funding from the Federal Highway Administration. It supports publicly accessible motorized, non-motorized, and diverse-use recreational trails and trail-related facilities that benefit the broader community. The program combines trail development and upkeep with safety education and environmental protection.
Supported work includes new trails, maintenance and restoration, trailhead facilities, equipment purchases or leases, and acquisition of recreational trail corridors and easements. Education projects may include publications and programming that promote safe trail use and environmental protection. Eligible trail types include paved, natural-surface, accessible, water, and vertical trails. Motorized and non-motorized applications are evaluated separately.
