This TrailNation Spotlight series highlights innovative trail network development across the country and fosters peer-to-peer learning. These concise, high-impact sessions offer a unique opportunity to hear from trail network innovators, explore successful strategies, and build momentum for this infrastructure across the country. This is just the first in a series of deep dives we’ll take […]

There is much uncertainty right now about the future of federal funding for trails, walking and biking. In this webinar, you will learn about what Rails to Trails Conservancy (RTC) is doing—and actions you can take—to reinforce the transformative impact of trails in your community.    For decades, RTC, its members and partners have advocated for […]

Join Rails to Trails’ Changemaker for Trails campaign for a training on “Preparing for the Next Transportation Bill: How Federal Transportation Decisions Affect Walking, Biking and Trails.” During this training, we discussed the federal legislation that makes trails possible and how you can directly influence the creation of this legislation. More specifically, we discussed Rails […]

View the impact of Celebrate Trails Day 2025 in this infographic of participation statistics, direct impact and why people use trails. 2025 By The Numbers: “Trails bring people together and recognize the importance of not only exercise, but the culture and history of a location.” —2025 Participant, Abingdon, MD Direct Impact: Ways People Rely on […]

Executive Summary The Great American Rail-Trail Vision Imagine pedaling across the entire country on a safe, seamless and scenic pathway—or walking a local trail that connects you to historic routes from across the country. You’re enthralled in the experience of exploring America’s heritage—its potential, its beauty and bounty, its people and places. Consider the intimacy […]

Trail-Oriented Development (TrOD) is an innovative planning approach that integrates multiuse trails with residential and commercial development to create walkable, bike-friendly communities that enhance mobility, promote healthier lifestyles, and strengthen local economies. Similar to Transit-Oriented Development (TOD), TrOD clusters businesses, housing, and other amenities around trails to foster vibrant, connected neighborhoods. Join the TrailNation Collaborative, […]

April 15, 2025Secretary Sean DuffyU.S. Department of Transportation1200 New Jersey Avenue, SEWashington, D.C. 20590 Dear Secretary Duffy, As you review the Department’s programs, policies and grants, we are writing to share with you the many ways that active transportation infrastructure is essential to the success of America. Investments made in walking and biking directly support […]

As natural disasters become more frequent and severe, trails are playing an increasingly vital role in planning, recovery, and resiliency. From serving as alternative evacuation routes to critical drivers of economic recovery, trails are emerging as essential infrastructure in times of crisis. In this session, attendees heard real-world examples of trails serving as critical infrastructure […]

As we work to shape federal transportation priorities, RTC has put forth a policy framework for the next reauthorization of the federal surface transportation bill focused on ensuring a robust ecosystem of policies and programs that prioritize connected walking and biking routes, making it safer and easier for Americans to move around the regions where […]

This is a crucial moment for the walking, biking and trails movement, and through our collective advocacy, we can ensure that trails have the robust support and funding they need to remain safe and vibrant pillars of our community! During this training, RTC panelists discussed how recent federal decisions could affect the way trails are […]