FWP administers the Recreational Trails Program (RTP), a federally funded grants program that supports Montana’s trails.
The RTP funds come from the Federal Highway Trust Fund and represent a portion of the motor fuel excise tax collected from nonhighway recreational fuel use: fuel used for off-highway recreation by snowmobiles, all-terrain vehicles, off-highway motorcycles, and off-highway light trucks.
FWP collaborates with the State Trails Advisory Committee to review the RTP applicants each year.
Approximately $1.5 million is made available each year.
Maximum award: $100,000
Match Requirement: 20% of total project costs
RTP applicants can include federal, tribal, state, county or city agencies, private associations and clubs including nonprofits. Examples of eligible projects include:
Maintenance and restoration of existing recreational trails
Development and rehabilitation of trailside and trailhead facilities and trail linkages
Purchase and lease of recreational trail construction and maintenance equipment
Construction of new recreational trails
Development and dissemination of publications and operation of educational programs to promote safety and environmental protection
The Application cycle is now CLOSED. The next Application Cycle will open in Novemeber 2026. Check back for more information.
All Applications must be submited through WebGrants. If you do not have an account, navigate to the "Register Here" page to complete and submit a registration request. The RTP Program Manager will then review and approve new registrations.
Volunteer Hours Form (PDF)
2025 Award Recipients (PDF)
2024 Award Recipients (PDF)
2023 Award Recipients (PDF)
2022 Award Recipients (PDF)
2021 Award Recipients (PDF)
2020 Award Recipients (PDF)
Stephanie Clemen, RTP Program Manager
Stephanie.adamsclemen@mt.gov
406-444-5898