Restoring 250 trails
The America the Beautiful Trail Grant Program is a nationwide effort to restore and improve public access to National Forest System Trails, connecting people to the lands, waters, and natural heritage that define our nation.
Investing in the Trails that Connect Us
America the Beautiful Foundation is partnering with the U.S. Forest Service to bring philanthropic investment to trails across all 154 National Forests and Grasslands. Through this national partnership, grants support nonprofits, Tribes, and local communities working to improve trails and access to America’s public lands.
The program has officially launched, with the first grants now being awarded. Early response has demonstrated strong interest from communities across the country and the potential to build a lasting national investment in America’s trails.
Trails Invite us to Experience
the Beauty of America.
They power local economies.
They strengthen communities.
They connect us to the outdoors and to each other.
A National Impact Already Underway
The program's founding goal, improving public access on 250 trails to mark the nation's 250th anniversary, has already been exceeded in application demand since its launch on June 6, 2026. This demonstrates a clear need for trail improvements nationwide and an opportunity to expand the program’s impact.
The Need Has
Exceeded the Goal
Touching 49 of 154 national forests (32% of the system)
375 trails across 23 states
103 applications received
Key Differentiators
Flexible funding: Grants unlock stuck projects with a wide range of costs and bring private capital to public lands.
Proven demand & impact: 250-trail demand reached in two months, with funding supporting multiple trails per grant.
National reach: The only national trail grant program serving all 154 National Forests and Grasslands.
The Opportunity Before Us
The need is real. The demand is immediate. The model works. Now, ATBF is preparing to scale the program with additional program capital to fund significantly more trail restoration across the National Forest System. Together, we can restore trails, improve public access, strengthen local communities, and ensure America’s public lands remain accessible for generations to come.