The Recreational Trails Program (RTP) is a federally funded initiative designed to support the construction, maintenance, and educational promotion of recreational trails and trail-related facilities. Administered in Utah, the program funds a range of projects, including the development of new trails, restoration of existing trails, creation of trailhead facilities, and acquisition of land or easements for recreational trail corridors. RTP grants also support educational efforts focused on trail safety and environmental stewardship.

For the 2025 funding cycle, applications are accepted from February 1st through March 31st. Eligible applicants include municipalities, state agencies, federal agencies, non-profit organizations, and tribal governments. Funding awards range from $10,000 to $200,000, with a required 20% match from applicants. The program supports various types of trails, including paved, natural surface, accessible, motorized, non-motorized, water trails, and vertical trails. Projects involving e-bikes are categorized under motorized trail funding.

The RTP can be combined with other funding sources such as the Utah Outdoor Recreation Grant (UORG), Recreation Restoration Infrastructure Grant (RRI), Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation Grant (OHVR), and the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) to maximize funding potential. Due to the federal nature of this funding, projects that involve ground disturbance must undergo a National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) environmental review process before implementation.

The program provides resources and guidance to applicants, including reference guides on environmental compliance, funding procedures, and post-award requirements. Various forms are available for applicants to manage funding, including reimbursement invoices, upfront funding requests, extension requests, and progress and final report forms. Additionally, workshops and educational resources are offered to assist applicants in understanding eligibility criteria, application requirements, and project implementation.

Interested applicants should submit their proposals through the grant portal before the March 31, 2025, deadline. For more information or assistance, applicants can contact Evan Beitsch, the Federal Grants Coordinator, at ebeitsch@utah.gov or (385) 835-0778.