Parks and Open Spaces: Regional Trails

The updated Collin County Regional Trails Master Plan approved on November 10, 2025, provides a long-range framework for developing a connected, countywide trail system that links communities, parks, and open spaces. Originally adopted in 2012, the plan has been updated to reflect rapid population growth, changing development patterns, and evolving community needs across Collin County. Also refer to Plan Appendix, Plan Executive Summary.

The plan builds on decades of open space and trail planning efforts and aligns with the County's Parks and Open Space Strategic Plan. Its primary goal is to guide future trail investment, improve regional connectivity, preserve key corridors, and support municipalities as they plan and implement trail projects.

Plan Vision

The plan is guided by four core principles:

  • Connect communities through a regional trail network that fills critical gaps and links key destinations.
  • Coordinate with cities, agencies, and regional partners to align local and countywide trail planning efforts.
  • Invest strategically in trail projects that provide the greatest regional benefit.
  • Prioritize trail connections that improve intercity access, serve underserved areas, and preserve future corridors.

Planning and Public Engagement

An extensive public outreach process informed the plan, including technical advisory group meetings, municipal and agency coordination meetings, public open houses, and an online survey. This engagement ensured the plan reflects local priorities, challenges, and opportunities while supporting long-term regional goals.

Recommended Trail System

The plan identifies a Recommended Trails System made up of:

  • Spine Trail Corridors that serve as the backbone of the regional network, connecting multiple communities over longer distances.
  • Community Trail Corridors that provide local and intercommunity connections and link into the spine network.

Together, these corridors create a flexible, evolving system that can adapt as development occurs.

Implementation and Funding

Trail implementation is a collaborative effort between Collin County, municipalities, and partner agencies. The County serves as a coordinator and guide, using the plan to help prioritize projects and allocate funding through the County's Project Funding Assistance Program.

Past Events