Recreational Trails Program (RTP)
Forecasted
Recreational Trails Program (RTP) supports Wisconsin trail projects by funding maintenance, rehabilitation and development of motorized and nonmotorized trails and facilities to expand public recreation.
Funder: Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
Due Dates (Anticipated): March 2027 (application deadline)
Funding Amounts: Up to 80% of eligible costs; $100,000 maximum per project in the 2025–2026 cycle
Summary: Supports maintenance, rehabilitation and development of recreational trails and related facilities for motorized and nonmotorized use.
Key Information: Projects must support a goal in Wisconsin’s Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan and provide reasonable public access.
Description
The Recreational Trails Program (RTP) is a federal program administered in Wisconsin by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), in partnership with the Federal Highway Administration and Wisconsin Department of Transportation. It funds recreational trails and related facilities for motorized and nonmotorized use, including traditional trails and DNR-recognized water trails.
Eligible work is prioritized in this order: rehabilitation and maintenance of existing trails and trailhead facilities; development of new trails, linkages and trailhead facilities; and acquisition of property for trails in areas with limited trail opportunities. Acquisition applications were not accepted for the 2026 cycle. Projects compete statewide in nonmotorized, motorized and diversified-use categories.
