Cottonwood Canyon Foundation seeks $250K for trail restoration projects in Utah

The Utah Outdoor Recreation Grant Advisory Committee convened on April 30, 2025, to discuss critical funding requests aimed at enhancing outdoor recreational facilities across the state. A standout proposal came from the Cottonwood Canyons Foundation, which is seeking $250,000 to restore and improve trails in high-traffic areas, including Adams Canyon and Silver Lake. This initiative is backed by over 20 partnering organizations and aims to increase accessibility for the thousands of visitors who frequent these popular spots.

Committee members praised the thoroughness of the Cottonwood Canyons Foundation's application, highlighting its potential to significantly impact trail access and user experience. One member noted, "It felt like it was gonna impact a lot of trail access that gets high volume," emphasizing the project's importance for both local residents and tourists.

Another noteworthy discussion centered on the Limber Flag and Grizzly Ridge yurt restoration project, which seeks $33,000 as part of a $216,000 total budget. The project aims to refurbish facilities to make them more accessible and compliant with ADA standards, addressing a growing demand for such amenities in Utah's outdoor spaces.

The committee also tackled the ongoing challenge of funding projects on federal lands, with members expressing concern about the reliance on state resources for federal infrastructure. One member suggested creating a report to document state funding contributions to federal projects, aiming to clarify the state's role and advocate for better federal support.

As the meeting progressed, various other projects were reviewed, including a bridge replacement for the Bonneville Shoreline Trail, which sees around 300,000 visitors annually. The committee's discussions underscored a commitment to enhancing Utah's outdoor recreation infrastructure, ensuring that it meets the needs of an ever-growing user base while navigating the complexities of funding and land management.