Outdoor recreation is a defining part of Utah’s quality of life and local economies, but behind every trail, boat ramp, and community recreation space is intentional investment, thoughtful planning, and ongoing care.
Across the state, the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation (DOR) helps communities turn outdoor recreation ideas into lasting assets by pairing funding with planning expertise and boots-on-the-ground trail work and stewardship. These investments support access, safety, and sustainability – while reflecting local priorities.
Grants That Turn Ideas into Reality
The DOR administers a wide range of grant programs that help our communities move outdoor recreation projects from concept to completion. These grants support everything from trails and trailheads to boating access, OHV infrastructure, parks, and outdoor learning spaces.
In recent grant cycles, DOR has awarded more than $46 million to 267 outdoor recreation projects statewide, reaching all 29 Utah counties. These investments help communities:
- Build new recreation infrastructure where it’s needed most
- Improve safety and accessibility at existing sites
- Leverage local, federal, and private matching funds
- Strengthen community capacity to manage and maintain recreation assets
Just as important as the funding itself are the partnerships behind it. DOR works closely with local governments, nonprofits, and land managers to ensure projects align with community goals and are built to last.
Planning for Long-Term Access and Sustainability
Strong outdoor recreation doesn’t happen by accident; it starts with good planning. Through planning-focused programs and technical assistance, DOR helps communities think strategically about where and how recreation fits into broader goals for growth, tourism, stewardship, and quality of life.
To support long-term success, DOR invested more than $1.5 million in community recreation planning this past year, helping communities:
- Identify outdoor recreation gaps and opportunities
- Protecting long-term access and our natural resources
- Reduce conflicts between user groups
- Prepare for increased visitation and long-term maintenance
By supporting planning before construction, DOR helps communities make informed decisions that save time, reduce costs, and prevent future challenges. The result is recreation infrastructure that works better for users, local residents and land managers.
Trail Crews: Protecting Investments on the Ground
Building recreation infrastructure is only part of the equation. Keeping trails, routes, and access points safe and functional requires ongoing care, and that’s where DOR’s statewide trail crew plays a critical role.
This past year, our four regional trail crews maintained and improved more than 1,300 miles of motorized and non-motorized trails statewide to:
- Keep trails open and enjoyable for all users
- Reduce erosion and environmental damage
- Improve safety and user experience
- Extend the life of recreation infrastructure
These crews are often the difference between a trail that slowly deteriorates and one that remains open, safe, and enjoyable year after year. By investing in maintenance – not only new construction – DOR helps communities protect the recreation assets they’ve worked hard to build.
Local Impact, Statewide Benefits
Outdoor recreation investments not only improve access to the outdoors but also support broader community goals. Well-planned and well-maintained recreation infrastructure supports:
- Local economies and tourism
- Public health and well-being
- Community pride and connection to place
- Safe, welcoming spaces for families and youth
From small towns to growing cities, these investments reflect a shared commitment to building communities where people want to live, work, and recreate.
Building for the Future
As outdoor recreation continues to grow, thoughtful investment matters more than ever. By combining grants, planning, and trail crew support, DOR helps communities build outdoor recreation systems that are safe, sustainable, and built to serve future generations. These investments strengthen communities today, and ensure Utah’s outdoors remain accessible and resilient for years to come.