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published Aug 2019

Guidance for Managing Informal Trails

by Jeffrey Marion with U.S. Geological Survey

A great how-to for developing educational programs and plans for managing, maintaining, and improving informal trails


published Aug 2019

Why You Might Consider Conservation Corps on Your Next Trail Project

by Hannah Traverse with The Corps Network

Why trail managers often engage Conservation Corps on maintenance projects, and why you might see more Corps on our trails.


published Jan 2004

11 Key Trail Tools for Grubbing and Raking

by Jim Schmid

These are the most commonly used grubbing and raking tools with tips on using them safely and effectively.


published Aug 2019

What You Need to Know About Building Trails with Crusher Fines

by Lois Bachensky with USDA Forest Service

A crusher fine trail combines the rustic feeling of a natural surface trail with a surface type that's durable (but not concrete or asphalt). The natural gravel-like surface feels more like a trail than a hard surfaced path and fits in well with primitive settings.


published Aug 2019

Volunteers for Outdoor Colorado Restores State’s Flood and Fire-Damaged Trails

by Volunteers for Outdoor Colorado (VOC)

Particularly in the aftermath of disaster, volunteers are vital to the success of keeping public lands, parks, and trails open and well-maintained for generations to come.


published Aug 2019

6 Solutions for Managing Multi-Use Trails and Conflict

by Taylor Goodrich with American Trails

Let’s face it. Motorized, equestrian, biking, and hiking users do not always get along. When conflicts inevitably arise, what do we do, and how can we avoid it in the first place?


published Aug 2019

Wildlife and Trails Checklist — Introduction

by American Trails Staff

The Wildlife and Trail Planning Checklist is a sequence of wildlife-related questions and possible steps to consider in planning a trail.


posted Aug 6, 2019

Hatfield-McCoy Regional Recreation Area, West Virginia

Spanning nearly 400 miles across eight counties, this backcountry trail system provides for a variety of trail uses, including all-terrain vehicle use, mountain biking, hiking, and horseback riding.


published Aug 2019

Planning Trails With Wildlife in Mind - Wildlife and Trails Primer

by American Trails Staff

The Primer provides discussion of broad wildlife topics, plus key concepts and rules of thumb to help with trail planning and management.


published Aug 2019

Why Water Trails are Better Than Land Trails

by Mike Passo with American Trails

A totally unbiased analysis by a kayaker with a disability.