Californians Invited to Help Guide Future of Trails

California is launching a statewide effort to help shape future investments in recreational trails.

SACRAMENTO - Calling all hikers and trail lovers: the California Natural Resources Agency (CNRA) and California State Parks want to hear from you! Starting today, trail users, advocates and professionals can share their experiences and insights by completing an online survey that will help inform the future of trail access and connectivity throughout California.

This is your chance to help blaze a new path forward and guide critical trail investments included in the voter-approved Proposition 4 (Climate Bond). The online survey is open through February 2026, when virtual public meetings are also scheduled for further engagement.

Take the Survey

This is your chance to help blaze a new path forward and guide critical trail investments included in the voter-approved Proposition 4 (Climate Bond). The online survey is open through February 2026, when virtual public meetings are also scheduled for further engagement.

"Trails are such a critical part of enjoying the outdoors, and we want all Californians to have a say in where our path goes from here," said California Natural Resources Secretary Wade Crowfoot. "By participating in this survey and providing your input, you will help shape the future of trails in California as we work together to improve access to the state's unparalleled natural resources."

A commitment to an inclusive trail network

The trail survey will gather input from trail users, community members, advocates and professionals to understand what is missing, what is working and what could be improved across the statewide network of nonmotorized recreational trails. Public feedback will help identify barriers to access and opportunities to expand safe, high-quality trails.

The findings will guide future investments funded through the Climate Bond for key trail projects throughout California and will also inform the next update to the California Recreational Trails Plan, scheduled for 2027. The California Recreational Trails Plan is the statewide guide for agencies that plan, maintain and manage trails. The plan, which was last updated in 2011, assesses demand, identifies priorities and recommends an integrated system of trail routes.

Why now?

Approved by voters in 2024, the Climate Bond invests $10 billion in local projects that strengthen communities - protecting drinking water, reducing wildfire and flood risks, restoring natural places, supporting healthy working lands, and expanding access to parks and outdoor spaces. These investments may support new trail construction, renovation of existing trailheads, accessibility improvements, and other enhancements that expand safe and inclusive access to outdoor recreation.

The trail survey supports Governor Gavin Newsom and First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom's Outdoor Access for All and California Natural Resources Agency's Outdoors for All initiatives by placing a strong emphasis on improving trail access for communities that have historically faced barriers to outdoor recreation. At least 40% of Climate Bond investments must provide direct and meaningful benefits to disadvantaged and severely disadvantaged, communities and vulnerable populations. CNRA and State Parks are jointly leading the engagement process and are committed to ensuring that future trail investments reflect community needs and expand access for all Californians.

For more information on the Climate Bond, please visit CNRA's Prop 4 Climate Bond website.

A statewide invitation to participate

Since trails are for everyone, all Californians are invited to take part in this effort by sharing their experiences and insights. Along with the survey and virtual meetings, Californians can also share photos and stories from the trail through an online photo contest! The person who submits the winning entry will receive an annual California Explorer Vehicle Day Use Pass, made possible by private donations. The public can also stay informed by visiting CaliforniaTrailsSurvey.com and CNRA and State Parks social media channels.