What is the Indiana Trails Program grant?
The Indiana Trails Program (ITP) is a grant program to support the development of trails throughout the state. The program uses state funds to help connect Hoosiers to outdoor recreation opportunities and natural environments without needing to rely on the use of a vehicle.
Who is eligible?
All units of government and certain 501(c)3 not-for-profit agencies are welcome to apply. Eligible not-for-profit organizations must have a central mission that focuses on providing public outdoor recreation opportunities and has the capability to maintain the facilities developed with grant funds for a minimum of 25 years. Please contact a program administrator if you have questions regarding your organization’s eligibility.
What types of projects may be funded?
Projects will be eligible if they provide public access to trails. ITP funds can be used for:
- Construction of trails
- Development of trailheads and other support amenities (parking, water fountains, benches, etc.)
- Construction of bridges, boardwalks, and crossings
- Acquisition of easement or property for trails
- Projects that can be completed within four years
All facilities should be universally designed to accommodate all people.
How much grant funding is available to applicants?
The Indiana Trails Program will provide a maximum of 80% reimbursement for eligible projects, up to the maximum grant award amount. The applicant must have at least 20% of the total project cost available at the point of application.
The grant request minimum is $100,000, and the maximum is $400,000.
When is the application deadline?
The 2025 ITP application window is Sep. 1 – Oct. 1. Applications must be submitted electronically to ITP@dnr.IN.gov by the end of business hours on Oct 1.
The Indiana Trails Program is a biennium grant program, only accepting applications every two years. This allows the program to award more actionable grant amounts. The next ITP application round will be in the spring of 2028.
Quarterly Reporting
Quarterly reporting is a requirement of all Indiana State Parks Community Grants and Trails grant programs. Quarterly reports are due in the first week of the new fiscal quarter, unless a specific date is set by the Grant Coordinators. Failure to submit quarterly reports in a timely manner may result in the local sponsor being barred from receiving grant assistance in the future. Quarterly Report resources are linked below.
How do I apply?
The ITP Handbooks below contain application and programmatic guidance. Applicants should read both handbooks prior to applying to gain an understanding of the whole program and its expectations.
Applicants are strongly encouraged to schedule a pre-application meeting during the summer months prior to application. These meetings allow grants staff an opportunity to give programmatic advice and redirect the application away from ineligible items.
The Indiana Trails Program shares this real estate handbook with the NLT program.
Supplemental Documents
- Application Checklist
- Assurance of Compliance Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title VI Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Age Discrimination Act of 1975
- Certification Regarding Debarment, Suspension, Ineligibility, and Voluntary Exclusion
- DNR Early Coordination Recommendations Certification of Compliance
- DNR Subrecipient Information Sheet
- Grant Billing Form instructions
ITP Program Contact Information
Indiana Trails Program Team
Community Grants and Trails Section
Indiana Department of Natural Resources
402 W. Washington Street, Room W298
Indianapolis, IN 46204
Email: ITP@dnr.IN.gov