HARRISBURG, PA — The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) has unveiled a substantial investment of $2,124,200 aimed at enhancing all-terrain vehicle (ATV) and snowmobile trails across Pennsylvania. This initiative aims to expand outdoor recreation opportunities, offering enthusiasts improved and more accessible trail experiences.
The funding, sourced from the All-Terrain Vehicle Management Restricted Account and the Snowmobile Management Restricted Account, will support a variety of projects focused on planning, acquisition, construction, and maintenance of these recreational facilities. The grants are strategically allocated to ensure the development of new trails and the enhancement of existing ones.
Key Projects and Allocations
- Snow Shoe Rails to Trails Association: Awarded $85,600, this grant will facilitate a feasibility study in Snow Shoe Township, Centre County. The study aims to assess infrastructure, maintenance, and organizational needs, alongside planning for an ATV storage facility. A comprehensive electronic report will document the findings.
- Piney Rail Riders: With an allocation of $937,900, this project involves acquiring approximately 550 acres across Piney Township in Clarion County and Brookville Borough in Jefferson County. The development will provide 24 miles of ATV trails as part of the Piney Branch All-Terrain Vehicle Rail Corridor.
- Presque Isle Snowmobile Club, Inc.: This $20,000 grant will support the purchase of equipment necessary for constructing and maintaining 26 miles of snowmobile trails in several townships and Corry City, Erie County, enhancing the snowmobiling experience in the region.
- Lannding, LLC: Awarded $269,000, this funding will help purchase equipment for the construction and maintenance of 90 miles of ATV trails at the Lannding All-Terrain Vehicle Park in Pine Township, Indiana County, expanding the park’s offerings.
- Mines and Meadows LLC: Receiving $741,500, this project targets the development of the 870-acre Mines and Meadows ATV Park in New Beaver and Wampum boroughs, Lawrence County. Planned improvements include new comfort stations, parking spaces, campsite rehabilitation, ADA access, and landscaping enhancements.
- Pennsylvania State Snowmobile Association: Allocated $70,000, this grant will fund the 2025 Snowmobile mini-grant program and the Mapgears trail mapping software initiative, with an electronic report to outline the project outcomes.
Broader Impact and Opportunities
Secretary of Conservation and Natural Resources, Cindy Dunn, emphasized the importance of these investments, noting how they align with the growing interest in motorized recreation. “Each year, thousands of avid ATV and snowmobile riding enthusiasts recreate in Pennsylvania,” Secretary Dunn stated, highlighting the department’s dedication to enhancing these experiences.
The fall grant application round opened on August 1 and will close on September 30, with applications processed through the department’s online system. The grants are open to municipalities, non-profit, and for-profit organizations, with a preference for applications that provide matching funds.
With nearly 32,000 registered snowmobiles and more than 288,000 ATVs, Pennsylvania continues to be a hub for motorized outdoor recreation. This funding initiative not only improves the infrastructure but also aims to boost tourism and local economies by attracting enthusiasts from across the region.
These projects reflect a strategic effort to support sustainable recreational development, ensuring that Pennsylvania’s trails remain a leading destination for ATV and snowmobile enthusiasts. The DCNR’s proactive approach promises a future where outdoor recreation is safe, accessible, and enjoyable for all.
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