About Rails-to-Trails Conservancy
Rails-to-Trails Conservancy is a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating a nationwide network of trails from former rail lines and connecting corridors to build healthier places for healthier people.
Elroy-Sparta State Trail | Photo by Eric Reischl Photography
At Rails-to-Trails Conservancy (RTC), we believe that communities are healthier and happier when trail networks are central to their design.
Since 1986, RTC has worked to bring the power of trails to more communities across the country, serving as the national voice for the rail-trail movement.
Our mission is to create a nationwide network of trails from former rail lines, connecting corridors to build healthier places for healthier people.
With more than one million grassroots supporters, 23,000 miles of rail-trails on the ground nationwide and more than 8,000 miles of rail-trails ready to be built, our focus is on linking these corridors—creating trail networks that connect people and places, bringing transformative benefits to communities all across the country. Our flagship initiatives—TrailLink.com, TrailNation™ and the Great American Rail-Trail™—bring that strategy to life, connecting millions of people by trail.
For three decades, RTC has served as the national voice for trails, setting the precedent that rail-trails are need-to-have community assets and establishing policies and practices that ensure these trails are built. Here’s how.
We advocate on Capitol Hill and to state legislatures and local governments—for investments and policies that support safe trail, walking and bicycling networks for people of every age and ability.
We mobilize trail supporters and the public to advocate in their own communities for safe walking and biking infrastructure.
We partner with nationally respected organizations; federal, state and local agencies; public leaders; and trail advocates to build trails and educate Americans on their value.
We raise funds to help develop regional trail networks that create and connect healthy, thriving communities and raise the quality of life for Americans.
We provide resources in the form of trail planning, capacity-building grants, technical support and best practices for rural, suburban and urban communities seeking to build trails and connect trail systems.
We protect trails—as the only national organization in America solely committed to defending the preservation of former railroad corridors for continued public use, we have helped shape the legal framework around rail-trails and continue to defend it in court.
We speak out about the transformative power of trails, encouraging their use and generating demand for trails nationwide.
Rails-to-Trails Conservancy Reflects on Its 32nd Year As America’s Voice for Trails
New Santa Fe Trail | Photo by Scott Stark
Explore the History of Rail-Trails
Check out our interactive timeline below to browse important moments in the history of RTC and trail development in America.
History
Since RTC’s inception in 1986, we have helped to create a powerful national movement that is connecting communities from coast to coast.
Careers
By joining our dedicated team of professionals, you can help impact the lives of millions of people. Find out if there’s an opportunity that’s right for you!
Financials
RTC is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that relies on the valuable support of our members to make trails a reality. Donations are tax-deductible. See our Annual Report to learn about our impact.
Contact Us
Rails-to-Trails Conservancy National Headquarters:
The Duke Ellington Building, 2121 Ward Court, NW, 5th Floor, Washington, DC 20037
Phone: 202.331.9696
If you are interested contacting our field offices, becoming a member, learning more about our trail development work, or finding out how you can get involved, we want to hear from you!
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