Up to $1.6 million in federal grants available for Oregon trail projects

Local governments, park districts, tribal governments and other public land managers have until Nov. 15 to apply for a federal grant program meant to improve public trails.

The Recreational Trails Program, a federally funded grant program administered by the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, is accepting grant applications for approximately $1.6 million in grant funds available for the 2025 grant cycle. 

Interested applicants must submit a letter of intent to the state by Oct. 15. Applicants must commit to at least a 20% match, which can include volunteer labor or other donations.

Land managers can use the grants to build new trails for motorized and non-motorized use or to improve existing trails, trailhead facilities, trail building and maintenance equipment. Funds may also be used for land or easement acquisitions, safety and education purposes and accessibility assessments of trails and water trails.

The program is funded through the Federal Highway Administration. Since 1993, the program has funded over 550 projects across Oregon. 

For more information about the program, who can apply or application instructions, visit the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department website.

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