Here are 8 of the projects that received trail grants in Maine last year
Maine’s trail network is undergoing a significant transformation thanks to a historic $30 million bond dedicated to trail infrastructure, with the first round of grants already fueling projects that are enhancing accessibility, safety, and community engagement across the state. In 2025, the Maine Trails Program distributed $7.5 million to 44 organizations, with awards ranging from $25,000 to $250,000, each requiring a 10% match from recipients. These funds are supporting a wide array of initiatives, from urban green spaces to remote coastal preserves, as organizers report a surge in momentum for outdoor recreation.
Steve Kasacek, director of trail development at the Outdoor Sport Institute and president of the leadership group of the Maine Trails Coalition, noted the palpable excitement: “There’s good buzz and momentum around trails in the state right now.” The state is currently reviewing applications for a second round of grants, which has seen high demand, indicating sustained interest in trail development.
One standout project is the Long Creek Trail in South Portland, where the South Portland Land Trust received approximately $140,000 to widen the path, reduce its steep grade, and add signage. Tex Haeuser, the trust’s board president, described the 0.7-mile trail as a rare green space in a neighborhood dominated by pavement. “It’s an opportunity for the many people who live in the west end to take a break from urbanity,” he said, adding that work is expected to finish this fall. This project addresses local needs by making the trail more inviting for residents who previously found it intimidating.
In Washington County, the Maine Coast Heritage Trust secured $250,000 to renovate a 0.6-mile section of the Boot Head preserve in Lubec. The project involves hardening the trail tread, rerouting sections, and replacing narrow bog bridges with wider boardwalks. Kyle Winslow, associate director of stewardship for the trust, emphasized the importance for an aging population: “We have an aging population. I’m grateful that through this project, we’re able to provide an opportunity for folks to continue to get out to these places.” The upgrades are slated for completion late fall.
The High Peaks Alliance used a $250,000 grant to purchase 120 acres along the Sandy River in Strong, establishing the town’s first public trail at Walrath Woods. Executive Director Brent West highlighted the immediate impact: “It’s amazing the impact it has on people almost instantaneously if you just have them shove their phone in their pocket and walk this trail.” The 1.7 miles of frontage on the Sandy River are now open, transforming a private hunting and fishing area into a public resource.
Mountain biking is also seeing a boost, with the Outdoor Sport Institute combining $250,000 from the Maine Trails Program with $1 million from the Northern Border Regional Commission for a multiyear project in Penobscot and Aroostook counties. The effort includes 4.5 miles of singletrack at Hammond Ridge in Millinocket, a critical trail link, 3.5 miles near the Peavey Brook Outdoor Center in Patten, and a new system in Island Falls. Kasacek described the work as “very generational,” aiming to “embed this culture that everybody deserves to play outside in the woods.” Construction continues through 2028.
In Fort Kent, the Green Bean Trail at the Outdoor Center is being reconfigured with over $160,000 in funding. Originally built for high school ski racing and rated as expert, the trail will become a beginner and intermediate 6-kilometer loop open year-round. Board member Carl Theriault said, “It’ll give us much better access from the downtown area. It’ll enhance the desirability to come travel here to ski,” with completion expected next year.
Monmouth’s trails committee received about $202,000 to convert an abandoned trail behind the schools into 1.25 miles of multi-use trails meeting Universal Accessible Trail standards. Chuck Cohen, a committee member, hopes it will be “the kick-starter for other trails in town,” with work anticipated within weeks. Safety improvements are also underway in Dennysville, where the Snowmobile & ATV Club got $246,600 to widen and upgrade two bridges on the Down East Sunrise Trail extension. Mark Wigley, vice president, called it “a big safety improvement” for runners and ATV users.
In Rockland, a $250,000 grant is advancing a vision to connect Rockland Harbor to Rockland Bog via trails on Benner Hill. Jenny Carter, the city’s sustainability and community development coordinator, noted the project’s tie to existing mountain biking programs for students: “The goal is that kids in Rockland will be growing up with an appreciation for active transportation and outdoor recreation.” Work is ongoing, with full completion expected next summer.
These projects exemplify how the Maine Trails Program is not only improving infrastructure but also fostering community connections and encouraging lifelong outdoor engagement. With the second round of grants underway, the state’s commitment to trail development appears strong, promising further enhancements for residents and visitors alike.
