Adopt-A-Path: 2025 Year-in-Review

With more than 250 miles of pathways, The Woodlands offers endless opportunities to walk, run, bike, or simply enjoy the outdoors. Whether you’re taking a stroll through your neighborhood or setting out along one of our scenic greenbelts, the pathway system offers endless ways to immerse yourself with nature. These well-used pathways don’t stay clean by accident; they’re cared for year-round by a dedicated group of volunteers through the Adopt-A-Path program.

Each year, local residents, scout troops, civic clubs, and business teams commit to removing litter from their adopted segments, helping to keep our trails beautiful and safe for all.

By the numbers:

In 2025, our Adopt-A-Path program continued to grow with the support of 143 volunteer groups, including the addition of 29 new teams. Together, these groups logged 10,320 hours of service and mobilized 1,973 volunteers to clean up litter along our pathways.

photo of a group of children with an adult standing in a field with a pile of collected litter and their litter grabbers.
four young boys collecting litter together with one child using a litter grabber to pick up litter and another holding the bag open

They removed an impressive 4,388 gallons, which is equivalent to 45 standard 96-gallon carts. Of that total, 32 carts represent trash and 13 represent recyclables. This effort kept litter out of our waterways, green spaces, and neighborhoods.

graphic showing 32 trash carts and 13 recycling carts

Through their time and effort, volunteers gave a value of $359,032.80 in sweat equity back to the Township, based on the national volunteer rate of $34.79 per hour. This incredible contribution reflects not only the value of their service but also the impact a dedicated community can make when working together.

group of volunteers standing in front of the Clariant corporation sign with their litter grabbers
volunteer walking on a path with a plastic bottle in her litter grabber and a bag of trash

Be Part of Adopt-A-Path

Adopt-A-Path is a simple way to make a big difference. Volunteers agree to care for a one-mile section of a pathway by picking up litter throughout the year. It’s perfect for families, scout troops, schools, and businesses looking to give back locally.

We provide:

  • Litter grabbers, gloves, safety vests, and trash bags
  • Recognition through signage and shout-outs

You provide:

  • Your time and care for the community
two children standing with their backs to the camera in yellow vests and holding litter grabbers
two kids and an adult pointing at their Adopt-A-Path sign for The Woodlands Lions Club

Getting started:

  • Step 1: Choose a 1-mile stretch of available pathway using the Interactive Adopt-A-Path Map.
  • Step 2: Complete the online Application.
  • Step 3: Sign a Waiver for each participant, including minors. 
  • Step 4: Commit to at least one year in the program and to submit at least one online Activity Log per quarter.

Start 2026 with a positive impact. Adopt a path today and help keep The Woodlands beautiful year-round.

Connect with us! Phone: 281-210-3800 Email: enviro@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov

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