Press release on 17 April 2025 by DCNR Newsroom
The 24-mile trail in Clarion and Jefferson counties, funded by a $937,900 grant, advances outdoor recreation and economic growth in western Pennsylvania – and builds on the success of similar connectors in other parts of the Commonwealth.
Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis and Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn visited Limestone Township, Clarion County, to celebrate the addition of the 24-mile Piney Rail Corridor for motorized and non-motorized recreation. This $937,900 investment — funded through DCNR’s All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) Management Restricted Account Fund and awarded to Piney Rail Riders — supports the Shapiro-Davis Administration’s commitment to expanding outdoor recreation and boosting rural economic development across Pennsylvania.
“The Shapiro-Davis Administration is dedicated to supporting our growing $19 billion outdoor recreation industry for the benefits it provides to local communities across the Commonwealth,” said Lt. Governor Davis. “These types of investments are critical to ensure ATV riders have safe, high-quality opportunities to enjoy the outdoors and to create new memories in nature.”
The acquisition of the Piney Rail Corridor by Piney Rail Riders ensures the long-term conservation and use of the trail, while contributing to local economic growth and community development. Poised to become a premier destination for outdoor recreation in western Pennsylvania, the corridor highlights the power of community action, sustainable recreation, and the economic benefits that follow.
“The Piney Rail Corridor is a wonderful example of how strategic investments in outdoor recreation improve quality of life and drive local economic growth,” said Secretary Dunn. “This trail will connect residents and visitors to the natural beauty of western Pennsylvania, creating new opportunities for exploration, recreation, and community development.”
Stretching across approximately 550 acres, the Piney Rail Corridor spans six townships and connects with more than a dozen others in Clarion and Jefferson counties. It is expected to generate significant tourism revenue in the Pennsylvania Wilds and provide a major boost to local businesses, such as restaurants, lodging, and outdoor retailers. For many, the Piney Rail Corridor will be a must-see destination when planning a visit to Pennsylvania – The Great American Getaway.
DCNR already has seen similar successes in other parts of the state. For example, the Northcentral Regional ATV Trail Connector generated $23.5 million in revenue over two years, showcasing the economic potential of off-highway vehicle recreation.
With over 290,000 ATVs registered in Pennsylvania, these investments ensure continued growth in safe and accessible motorized recreation opportunities in ways that best respect state land.
“This award to Piney Rail Riders by DCNR will significantly expand outdoor recreation opportunities not only for community members in our region but for all Pennsylvanians,” said Bryan Huwar, Piney Rail Riders Project Manager. “It’s an invitation for people, no matter where they live, to come and visit. At the same time, it will foster the development of a thriving, family-supporting outdoor economy for our rural communities.”
The Piney Rail Corridor will be managed with a focus on environmental sustainability. Piney Rail Riders is dedicated to maintaining the corridor in an environmentally sensitive manner and has partnered with local conservation groups to improve water quality and address runoff. The collaboration with the Millcreek Coalition will support efforts to restore the Piney Creek watershed, improving the health of local ecosystems and providing cleaner water for wildlife and recreational activities.
Learn more about DCNR’s All-Terrain Vehicle and Snowmobile grants through the Community Conservation Partnership Program.
Visit DCNR’s website for more information about ATV riding opportunities in state forests and check out DCNR’s Calendar of Events for events on public lands.
For more information about Piney Rail Riders, visit https://pineyrailriders.org/about-us/.