Recreational Trails Program
The Recreational Trails Program (RTP) provides funds to the States to develop and maintain recreational trails and trail-related facilities for both nonmotorized and motorized recreational trail uses. The RTP is an assistance program of the Department of Transportation's Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). Federal transportation funds benefit recreation including hiking, bicycling, in-line skating, equestrian use, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, off-road motorcycling, all-terrain vehicle riding, four-wheel driving, or using other off-road motorized vehicles.
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
Federal Recreational Trail Program
The Minnesota DNR is the agency responsible for implementing the Recreational Trails program in the state.
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This program exists to encourage the maintenance and development of motorized, non-motorized, and diversified trails by providing funding assistance.
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Grant applications are due by the last Friday of February.
National RTP Funded Projects
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The RTP Database
This database shows how and where that funding is being invested in our communities.
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Data collected for the RTP Database is provided voluntarily by the States. The accuracy of the data collected is subject to the quality and timeliness of delivery. Please check back for updates.
MRTUA RTP Grant Application Priorities
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has been designated by the Governor to oversee distribution of these funds. The DNR is advised in the distribution of these funds by the state’s trail advisory board, Us, the Minnesota Recreational Trail Users Association (MRTUA).
MRTUAs priorities for funding are as follows:
Projects that accommodate both motorized and non-motorized uses, including same-season access corridors.
For all-terrain vehicle, off-highway motorcycle, off-road 4x4 vehicle, and snowmobile projects, priority will be given to trail acquisition and purchase of permanent easements, to trail development and trail linkages to existing systems over equipment purchases.
For all horse, in-line skate, cross-country ski, hike, and bicycle, priority will be given to trail linkages and restoration to existing trail systems, necessary trail facilities, trail signage to improve safety, and trail maintenance equipment.
For mountain bicycle projects, the development of new single track trail systems, located in areas of high user demand, in partnership with city, county, and state land managers will be given priority.
Projects that provide recreational opportunities in underserved areas.