SALEM, Ore. — The Oregon Parks and Recreation Commission has approved the final 2026 Oregon Recreational Trails Plan, setting priorities and strategies to guide trail development and investment across the state over the next decade.
The plan, adopted during the commission’s February meeting, outlines key trends, identifies challenges, and establishes funding priorities for improving Oregon’s extensive trail systems on public lands. It also recommends actions aimed at enhancing access and user experience for a wide range of outdoor recreation activities.
To support the plan’s implementation, the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department has launched a new technical resources website focused on recreation and trail planning. The online hub is intended to assist agencies, planners, and partners involved in trail development statewide.
“We appreciate the time and energy trail users and partners have put into helping us develop the next trails plan, which will guide investments to make our trails even better in the future,” said statewide trails planner Jessica Horning.
According to the department, more than 80% of Oregonians use trails each year, contributing over $890 million in spending at local businesses and supporting the state’s economy.
The comprehensive plan addresses a variety of trail types, including non-motorized trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, as well as motorized ATV routes, snowmobile trails, and water trails for non-motorized boating.
Development of the plan incorporated extensive public input, including statewide surveys of trail users and recreation providers conducted in October 2024 and April 2025. Additional feedback came from focus groups, workshops held during the Oregon Outdoor Recreation Summit in 2024 and 2025, and the Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan, which is updated every five years.
With the plan now approved, State Parks staff will align grant programs with its priorities. Updated criteria for the Recreational Trails Program and ATV grants are expected to be implemented for the next funding cycle in fall 2026.
State officials say the plan will serve as a roadmap not only for the parks department but also for federal, state, and local agencies, along with private partners working to expand and maintain Oregon’s trail network.
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