Great Redwood Trail Agency
Trail Development Process
Every mile of the Great Redwood Trail moves through the same five steps — from first dollar raised to ribbon cutting.
Designing the Trail
Several factors impact how each segment of the trail is designed.
Surroundings
The setting and surroundings of the trail corridor.
Corridor & Railbanking
The current condition of the corridor and its railbanking status — whether the corridor is legally preserved for possible future rail use or is currently an active railway.
Community Use
How the local community plans to use the trail.
Environmental Compliance
Environmental review and compliance requirements.
GRT MASTER BASEMAP · SF BAY → HUMBOLDT BAY
The Process
START HERE!
Secure Funding
The GRTA and partners work together to raise the money needed to plan, build, and take care of each trail project. Each project is usually 3 to 10 miles long.
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Trail Design
The design process starts once the finances are secure. During this stage, we plan the trail layout and study the land. We also work with neighbors, tribes, and other partners to make sure the trail is built the right way.
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Permits & Approvals
Before building starts, GRTA ensures needed permits are acquired and makes a plan for how to maintain the trail.
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Construction
Let’s build! During the construction process, a project manager makes sure all plans are followed, construction permits are secured, and the environment is protected.
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Trail Project Complete!
It’s time to explore the Great Redwood Trail!
↻Ongoing management and maintenance. Steps will repeat for each project.
Bringing the Great Redwood Trail to Life
We prioritize trail segments to build the Great Redwood Trail efficiently, starting with segments that are easier to build and offer the most value, while planning ahead for more complex sections.
Priority Tier 1
These segments offer the most value and are the easiest to build. They already have momentum and provide strategic benefits to local communities and partners.
Priority Tier 2
These segments are valuable or easy to build but usually not both. They’re often located near population centers or between Tier 1 segments.
Priority Tier 3
These segments currently offer less value or are harder to build. But these rankings can change. As a segment gains funding, community support, Tribal support, or momentum with local partners, it can move up to a higher tier.