Maine Trails Program grant recipients
AUGUSTA — The Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry’s Bureau of Parks and Lands recently announced the results of the first round of Maine Trails Program grants, marking a significant investment in trail access, connectivity, and outdoor recreation throughout the state.
In round one $7.5 million was awarded to 44 projects selected from 108 applications representing municipalities and nonprofit partners from 15 of Maine’s 16 counties. Funded projects span the full spectrum of trail use, including motorized, nonmotorized, accessible, and multi-use trails, supporting hiking, walking, ATV and snowmobile riding, paddling access, adaptive recreation,and community trail development across Maine.
Round one awardees include: Appalachian Mountain Club – KI-Brownville Rail Trail restoration ($250,000); East Branch Sno-Rovers & ATV – bridge and trail repairs ($119,017.13); E-Ville Riders – Long Pond bridge replacement ($99,195.12); EMCC Katahdin Higher Education Center – Cultural Nature Trail ($247,500); Kokadjo Roach Riders Snowmobile Club – trail rehabilitation ($145,984.52); Maine Appalachian Trail Club – trail improvements ($116,474); Northern Forest Canoe Trail – campsite & ADA dock improvements ($50,020); Outdoor Sports Institute – Katahdin Area Trails expansion ($250,000); Twin Pines Snowmobile Club – Logan Pond bridge and trail rehabilitation ($223,650).
“Maine’s trail systems are a critical part of Maine’s outdoor economy. I was proud to sign the bipartisan legislation to create this grant program in 2024 and support the passage of the trails bond by Maine voters that year,” said Gov. Janet Mills. “These investments will upgrade and enhance public trails for all kinds of outdoor recreation, and importantly, allow more people to enjoy all the Maine outdoors has to offer. I look forward myself to enjoying these trails in the years to come.”
“The Maine Trails Program is a once-in-a-generation investment in the places where we live, work, and recreate,” said Commissioner Amanda Beal, Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry. “These first-round awards reflect the incredible commitment of our communities to building trails that welcome everyone, whether they walk, ride, paddle, ski or snowmobile. From downtown connectors to backcountry routes and adaptive-access trails, these projects strengthen local economies and promote healthy outdoor activity across Maine.”
Created by the Maine Legislature and approved by voters as question 4 on the November 2024 ballot, and administered by the BPL, the $30 million Maine Trails bond created the Maine Trails Program, a statewide initiative dedicated to supporting the design, construction and rehabilitation of trails for outdoor recreation and active transportation. Through 2034, the program will award up to $7.5 million annually, leveraging at least $3 million per year in matching public and private contributions.
To ensure broad representation and transparency, the Maine Trails Advisory Committee, comprised of experienced professionals from motorized, non-motorized, and adaptive recreation trail communities, provides guidance and recommendations on eligible projects for funding.
Round one highlights: Over $17 million in requests received; 108 applications submitted statewide; 44 projects awarded (41% of requests); 100% of available funding awarded — $7.5 million; 52% of motorized trail applications funded; two land-acquisition projects approved; 25 new trails constructed; 14 projects focused on improved accessibility; 23 primarily hiking/walking (single-use) projects; eight primarily snowmobile (single-use) projects; five primarily ATV (single-use) projects; awards distributed across 15 counties.
The Maine Trails Program consists of four annual grant rounds. Applications for round two are anticipated to be due in June 2026. BPL looks forward to building on this momentum by continuing to support projects that expand trail access, improve infrastructure, promote safety and accessibility, increase stewardship and enhance Maine’s outdoor recreation economy.
Applicants can expect additional outreach, guidance and technical assistance ahead of the next application cycle.
BPL extends its appreciation to all applicants, community partners, the Maine Trails Advisory Committee, municipal leaders, trail clubs, land trusts and recreation organizations for their efforts in building a trail network that enhances community well-being, outdoor access and economic vitality throughout the state.
For more information on the Maine Trails Program and future application opportunities, please visit the program webpage or contact the Bureau of Parks and Lands.