Our Work
Rails-to-Trails Conservancy is the nation’s largest trails organization. Learn more about our work below.
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.
RTC's flagship initiative to create a multiuse trail that stretches more than 3,700 miles between Washington and Washington
TrailNation
Rails-to-Trails Conservancy’s (RTC) visionary TrailNationTM initiative is redefining how we build trail networks nationwide and the impact these equitable trail systems can have on people and places.
RTC’s TrailNation initiative encompasses model trail network projects that connect across city, county, multi-county and multi-state lines.
RTC’s TrailNation™ Playbook curates case studies, best practices and tools developed alongside partners on our TrailNation projects to stimulate trail network development nationwide.
Join the TrailNation™ Collaborative: a multi-disciplinary learning community that offers proven tools and methods to establish and grow trail networks across the country.
Trail Stories
Read the stories of the impact that trails have on our communities.
BLOG PERSONAL STORIES MAGAZINE
PHOTO BY CINDY BARKS
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.
Trail Development Resources
View RTC's Trail-Building Toolkit, webinars and other technical assistance resources for trail professionals.
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.
Advocating for Trails
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.
Legal Program
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
Rail-Trail Stats and Info by State
Use our map to find rail-trail stats, funding levels and related info such as trail networks and blogs by state.
How You Can Help
Your support helps Rails-to-Trails Conservancy bring more trails to more people.
