Article written by PA DCNR posted 9 September 2026 on LinkedIn

September is Trails Month in Pennsylvania, a time to celebrate the thousands of miles of trails that connect our communities, parks, and forests. It is also an opportunity to highlight the important work happening statewide to close trail gaps and strengthen the Commonwealth’s growing trail network.

Trail gaps are short missing segments between completed sections of trail. They can be places where a route stops abruptly, becomes unsafe or inaccessible, or fails to connect communities, parks, or forest lands. Closing these gaps is one of the most effective ways to improve Pennsylvania’s trail system, making it safer, more connected, and easier for residents and visitors to enjoy.

Why Trail Gaps Matter

Pennsylvania’s Trail Network Strategic Plan calls for a trail within ten minutes of every Pennsylvanian. With more than 14,000 miles of trails across the Commonwealth, achieving that vision requires not just building new trails, but connecting the ones we already have. Priority Trail Gaps are defined as short segments of five miles or less that link major greenways or regionally significant trails, connect communities, or close the last missing piece between two existing trail sections. Focusing on these short but significant segments delivers outsized benefits for access, safety, transportation, and local economies.

Progress Under the Shapiro Administration

Since January 2023, Pennsylvania has connected three Top Ten Trail Gaps:

  • The Brady Tunnel on the Armstrong Trail in Clarion County.

These projects are part of eight Top Ten Trail Gaps closed statewide since the list was created in 2015. They join dozens of other Priority Trail Gap closure projects supported through DCNR and PennDOT investments.

Between 2023 and 2025, DCNR awarded seven grants totaling more than $3.1 million to projects addressing Top Ten Gaps, and 18 grants totaling more than $7.5 million to Priority Trail Gaps overall. PennDOT’s Transportation Alternatives Set-Aside program recently funded seven additional Priority Trail Gap projects totaling approximately $8.2 million.

The Bridge Street Crossing on the D&L Trail in Morrisville

Plan Your Trail Adventure

Several recently connected trails offer great options for exploring Pennsylvania’s outdoors during Trails Month. The Armstrong Trail now features both the Brady Tunnel and earlier improvements on the Red Bank Valley Trail, giving visitors access to nearly 100 miles of continuous trail. On the Enola Low-Grade Trail, the Safe Harbor Bridge and Matric Forge Trestle—two earlier Top Ten closures—provide dramatic views and seamless riding. And in the Pennsylvania Wilds, the Pine Creek Rail Trail Extension now links Wellsboro directly to the Pine Creek Rail Trail, the 2026 Trail of the Year, which sits within the Lumber Heritage Region and the PA Route 6 Heritage Corridor.

Impacts of Closing Trail Gaps

Completing these connections brings measurable benefits:

  • Safer and more continuous routes for hikers, bikers, and families.
  • Increased options for commuting and alternative transportation.
  • Stronger recreation access for residents and visitors.
  • Community health and wellness improvements.
  • Expanded connections between parks, forests, and local green spaces.

How to Apply for Trail Funding

Trail projects can be supported through DCNR’s Community Conservation Partnerships Program, which provides grants for planning, design, land acquisition, and construction. Additional funding sources include the Keystone Recreation, Park and Conservation Fund, the Environmental Stewardship Fund, and the federal Pennsylvania Recreational Trails Program. Applicants should contact DCNR’s Bureau of Recreation and Conservation Regional Advisors for guidance on project development and funding options.

Looking Ahead: A More Connected Commonwealth

Pennsylvania currently has about 118 Priority Trail Gaps identified statewide, representing roughly 230 miles of trail construction and 49 bridge projects. As communities, partners, and agencies continue to work together, more of these gaps will be closed, bringing the Commonwealth closer to a fully connected statewide network.

The Brady Tunnel on the Armstrong Trail in Clarion County

DCNR remains committed to working with local governments, nonprofit organizations, volunteers, and regional partners to advance these projects. Through continued investments and collaboration, Pennsylvania is building a trail system that supports recreation, strengthens communities, and moves the Commonwealth closer to ensuring every resident lives within ten minutes of a trail.