This program funds projects that involve maintenance and development of motorized, non-motorized, and diversified (joint) trails.
Grant Guide
Overview
Application & Review Process
Deadline: February 29, 2024
Applications are reviewed by the DNR and the state’s trail advisory council, Minnesota Recreational Trail Users Association. They evaluate and rank applications in spring and issue award notices in summer.
Funding Amount
$2,500 – $150,000
A 25% cash or in-kind match is required. The maximum request for equipment grants is $75,000. This grant is a reimbursement for contract services, materials, and supplies.
Eligibility
Projects
Maintenance/restoration of existing recreational trails; development/rehabilitation of trail linkages, including trail side and trail head facilities; environmental awareness and safety education programs; and redesign/relocation of trails to benefit/minimize the impact to the natural environment.
Infrastructure
People/Engagement
Applicants
Local units of government (i.e. cities, counties, townships), preferably in cooperation with a local trail organization.
Government Entity
Land Type & Geography
Trail projects within Minnesota are eligible.
State
Regional
Local
Trails
Statistics & Examples
Funding History
| Year | Funds Awarded | # Projects | Average Award |
| 2020 | $2,532,105 | 35 | $72,346 |
| 2019 | $2,413,719 | 31 | $77,862 |
| 2018 | $2,596,856 | 34 | $76,378 |
| 2017 | $2,605,566 | 34 | $76,634 |
| 2016 | $2,445,328 | 28 | $87,333 |
| 2015 | $2,620,266 | 35 | $74,865 |
2020 Project Distribution ($)
Past Award Examples
| Amount | Recipient | Project |
| $8,059 | Goodhue County | Purchase two trail counters for the Cannon Valley Trail. |
| $9,247 | City of Ely | Purchase snowmobile for cross country ski trail grooming. |
| $25,000 | Stearns County | Crack fill/seal coating and general maintenance on 6 miles of the Lake Wobegon Trail. |
| $30,000 | Minnesota Trail Riders Association | Maintain and improve trails and campgrounds in parks. |
| $150,000 | DNR - Glendalough State Park | Complete paved trail within the park to separate from vehicle traffic. |