Groveland Ca. – Exciting news for trail enthusiasts in Tuolumne County! The Tuolumne County Transportation Council (TCTC) has just secured $185,000 in funding from the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) to support the development of the highly anticipated Hetch Hetchy Railroad Trail Project in Groveland. This grant will help accelerate construction on a Class I multi-use trail, enhancing connectivity for both residents and visitors alike.
The project, which is part of Groveland Community Services District’s (GCSD) Parks Master Plan, aims to convert 1.8 miles of the historic Hetch Hetchy Railroad grade into a 12-foot-wide, ADA-compliant trail for walking, running, bicycling, and other recreational activities. The trail will extend from Deer Flat Road to the District Sports Complex, passing through woodlands and crossing a seasonal creek. As part of the design, the trail will feature new pathway lighting, three new bike racks, and upgraded pedestrian bridges, making it both accessible and visually appealing.
GCSD’s ambitious vision doesn’t stop at the trail itself. This project is a vital part of Groveland’s larger push to improve infrastructure and recreational facilities. The Hetch Hetchy Railroad Trail will connect Groveland’s downtown area with Pine Mountain Lake, the local dog park, and other key community features like Mary Laveroni Park and the new Groveland Community Resilience Center. This 1.52-mile segment will serve as an accessible, multipurpose route, providing residents and visitors easier access to downtown shops, the new Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System (YARTS) bus stop, and nearby campgrounds.
While the $5.4 million trail project is slated for completion by 2028, this new round of funding will support immediate steps, such as installing bridges and lighting and enhancing existing recreational amenities. The entire project is designed to emphasize ecological conservation, celebrate Groveland’s natural beauty, and preserve the historical significance of the Hetch Hetchy Railroad, which once played a key role in delivering water to the Bay Area. As part of the construction, interpretive signage will be added along the trail, giving hikers and cyclists an opportunity to learn about the region’s cultural heritage, California’s water history, and the railroad’s impact on the growth of Silicon Valley.
The project is not only expected to benefit the local community, but also boost tourism. Groveland, often seen as a gateway to Yosemite, is positioning itself as a destination for heritage and environmental tourism. With a scenic and historically rich trail in the works, the area will draw outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and families seeking accessible outdoor recreation.
Provost & Pritchard, the engineering firm managing the project, is tasked with overseeing all aspects of the trail’s design and construction. Their work includes environmental studies, securing right-of-way acquisitions, and managing state reimbursements, all while ensuring the project stays on time and within budget.
With the preliminary alignment of the trail expected by October 2024, Tuolumne County residents and visitors can look forward to new recreational opportunities that celebrate both the area’s rich history and its outdoor beauty. As progress on the Hetch Hetchy Railroad Trail advances, Sierra Rec Magazine will continue to cover developments, keeping readers informed about this exciting addition to Groveland’s community offerings.
Stay tuned for more updates as we follow the transformation of this historic railway into a new community trail!
