Granting organizations make money available to construct, renovate, preserve and repair trails for hikers around the United States. These grants can also finance the construction of facilities, such as bathrooms, that trail walkers will use. Recipients of these awards may be required to cover a certain percentage of the project costs or match grants dollar for dollar with their own fund raising.

Save America's Treasures

The Save America’s Treasures grant program funds conservation and preservation projects in U.S. historical, cultural and intellectual properties. The National Park Service along with other nonprofit organizations and agencies sponsors this grant program, which can award grants up to $700,000. Approved projects include preservation historic districts, buildings, sites, parks, buildings and structures. Also included are cultural artwork and intellectual documents and artifacts. These grants must be matched dollar for dollar by the recipients. They are open to state and local agencies and nonprofit organizations.

Historic Preservation Grants National Park Service 1201 "Eye" St. NW (2256) Washington, DC 20005 202-354-2020 nps.gov

Outdoor Recreational Grants

The National Park Service awards outdoor grants to help prepare Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plans. These grants are also used to construct, renovate and improve outdoor areas such as trails, city parks, swimming pools, tennis courts and picnic areas. The grants cover the costs of building roads and other support facilities that are available to the public. State government agencies can apply. Recipients must cover at least half the project costs with outside funding.

Recreation Programs National Park Service Department of the Interior 1849 C St. NW Washington, DC 20240 202-354-6900 nps.gov

Recreational Trails Program

The Recreational Trails Program is sponsored by the Federal Highway Administration. These grants support construction and renovation of trails used for walking, jogging, hiking, cycling and motorbiking. State RTP administrators are eligible to receive funds from these grants. Half of the available funds are distributed evenly among states; the other half are distributed proportionally based on residents' use of recreational trails.

Christopher B. Douwes Trails and Enhancements Program Manager Federal Highway Administration 1200 New Jersey Ave. SE Washington, DC 20590-0001 202-366-5013 fhwa.dot.gov