Our Work
Since 1986, Rails-to-Trails Conservancy has served as the national voice for the rail-trail movement. As the country’s largest trails organization, it’s our job to speak up for trails, showcasing the incredible impact that trails have on strengthening and transforming communities, and elevating the passionate work of trail supporters and advocates.
Imagine what’s possible with a trail that connects the country
TrailNation Projects
Our TrailNation projects are redefining what it means to build trail networks and what trail networks can mean for people and places.
RTC tells the story of the impact that trails have on our communities through the Rails to Trails Magazine and our TrailBlog.
Subscribe to Magazine Read our TrailBlog
Rosendale Trestle along the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail in New York
Doppelt Family Rail-Trail Champions Award
Since 2011, the Doppelt family has funded the Doppelt Family Rail-Trail Champions Award, which honors supporters who have made significant contributions to the rail-trail movement through their work, volunteerism or support.
Rail-Trail Hall of Fame
Since 2007, RTC has recognized rail-trails around the country through the Rail-Trail Hall of Fame, honoring scenic value, high use, trail and trailside amenities, historical significance, excellence in management and community connections.
Since 2008, we have awarded more than $1.7 million to trails projects and provided technical assistance to trail managers, operators and friends groups.
Learn more our Trail-Building work
Photo courtesy West Virginia State Parks
Research Into Practice
RTC's research program conducts original research that advances our understanding of trail networks and the overall effects on communities, including connectivity, health, equity, environmental sustainability and economic outcomes.
GIS and Mapping
RTC has developed a first-of-its-kind suite of research and analytics tools—including online geographic information system (GIS) modeling tools, economic impact surveys, trail count programs and forecasting tools.
Since 1992, RTC has helped advocate for more than $15.6 billion in funds to support more than 54,000 trail and active transportation projects.
Trails Transform American
The Trails Transform America campaign has this message for Congress: Trail networks are as fundamental to America’s transportation systems as roads and rail lines and deserve robust federal investment. Explore trail network projects that are bringing transformative benefits to communities nationwide. Learn more about the campaign.
For over 30 years, RTC has helped shape the legal framework around rail-trails in an effort to protect and advance rail-trail development in the United States.
Grants
Through our grant programs, RTC emphasizes strategic investments that support significant regional and community trail development goals. Nearly $2 million in grants has been awarded since 2008.
Ozaukee Interurban Trail | Photo by TrailLink user lixunz
View Local Information
About Us
Rails-to-Trails Conservancy (RTC) 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.
Learn More
How You Can Help
Your support helps Rails-to-Trails Conservancy bring more trails to more people.
