Progress on Great American Rail-Trail with $30 Million in New Funding and 56% Completion in 2025

Published on December 23, 2025

The Great American Rail-Trail, a monumental project to create the first cross-country, multiuse trail spanning over 3,700 miles from Washington D.C. to Washington State, continues to make significant strides toward completion. In 2025, the project reached new milestones, with nearly $30 million in funding from local, state, federal, and private sources and 18 miles of new trail segments added in Ohio, Indiana, Iowa, Nebraska, Wyoming, and Washington.

The rail-trail now stands at 56% completion, with 2,085 miles of the route finished. With more than 160 miles in the pipeline for future development, the Great American Rail-Trail is poised to offer unparalleled access to some of the nation’s most scenic and diverse landscapes, providing travelers with an expansive route for walking, biking, and outdoor exploration.

Expanding Access Across the Country

New trail segments added in 2025 further improve connectivity, allowing cyclists and pedestrians to enjoy a more seamless experience as they travel across the country. For instance, in Redmond, Washington, the Redmond Central Connector was officially added to the route, reducing travel by three miles for those walking or biking along the trail. This addition was part of the project’s ongoing commitment to enhancing regional connectivity while serving the larger goal of creating a cross-country pathway.

Federal and state grants were crucial to this year’s progress, including funding from the RAISE (now BUILD) program, Transportation Alternatives program, and Recreational Trails programs in states such as Maryland, Ohio, Iowa, and Washington. These investments highlight the growing demand for safe, multiuse trail networks, which are increasingly seen as essential infrastructure for both local communities and national travel.

Impact on Outdoor Recreation and Tourism

The Great American Rail-Trail is more than just a transportation route; it represents a significant boost for outdoor tourism and recreational travel across the United States. With 50 million people living within 50 miles of the trail, and millions more expected to visit, the rail-trail offers both a local resource for fitness and a tourism draw for those looking to explore America by foot or bike. As the project continues to progress, it is expected to play a key role in the booming outdoor recreation market, which has seen increased interest in recent years.

By connecting rural areas with major cities, the trail also opens up new opportunities for eco-tourism, allowing visitors to experience parts of the country that may not typically be accessible by traditional means of transport. For travelers seeking immersive outdoor experiences, the Great American Rail-Trail promises not only to provide a means of travel but also a chance to connect deeply with the landscapes and communities it traverses.

A Collaborative Effort for Sustainable Travel

In addition to supporting tourism and outdoor recreation, the Great American Rail-Trail embodies the growing push for sustainable mobility solutions. The development of this cross-country trail offers a green alternative to traditional travel methods, reducing carbon emissions and encouraging healthier lifestyles through walking, biking, and outdoor activities. As the project continues to unfold, it serves as a model for future infrastructure development focused on sustainability and community connectivity.

Moreover, local partnerships with businesses, tourism boards, and regional governments are crucial to ensuring the success of the trail, especially as the route continues to grow and expand. These collaborations help promote the trail as a tourism asset and ensure that it remains a vital part of local economies.

Great American Rail-Trail Continues to Shape the Future of US Outdoor Travel

The Great American Rail-Trail is on track to become one of the most significant outdoor travel corridors in the United States, providing access to scenic landscapes, promoting outdoor tourism, and encouraging sustainable travel. With new funding, additional trail segments, and a clear vision for the future, the project is set to enhance travel experiences for both locals and tourists alike. As the trail nears completion, it will undoubtedly become a must-visit destination for those seeking to explore the U.S. on foot or by bike, connecting travelers with nature, history, and community across the country.