Resource Library:

Planning And Design

Subcategories • Accessible Trail DesignCase StudiesCost EstimatingFeasibility StudiesLivable/Active CommunitiesLand Acquisition and ConservationMaster PlansSignage and InterpretationTrailheadsTrail Networks DesignTrails as TransportationClosing Trail System GapsWildlife and Habitat



published Nov 2013

Designing Sustainable Off-Highway Vehicle Trails

by USDA Forest Service

Proper management of off-highway vehicle (OHV) trails is one of the most important tasks for trail managers today.


published Jan 2001

Detroit Greenways Study: Building the Riverfront Greenway

The vision of a continuous greenway along the Detroit River seemed like a dream only a few years ago. But today, communities and businesses in Greater Detroit are redefining their relationship to the river and championing linked greenways along its entire length.


posted Feb 19, 2018

Developing and Operating Water Trails at the Local, Statewide and Regional Levels

Come learn how water trails are connecting people to waterways as practitioners describe their successful programs of developing and managing extensive water trails.


published Jan 1991

Developing Sustainable Mountain Trail Corridors

by Hugh Duffy with National Park Service

This article introduces the criteria of maximum profile grade relative to the existing cross slope (fall line) as key to the development of natural surface trail projects that are sustainable. Key trail design concepts excerpted from trail documents are presented in this article.


published Aug 2015

Developing Trail Systems: Costs and Best Practices

by San Luis Valley Great Outdoors (SLV GO!)

Trails are more than simply lines on a map, a form of transportation or route to destinations. Trails are an experience. Engaging trails systems provide a sense of unique place, highlight natural topography and attract outdoor-based tourism. A vast and varied experience hooks trails users and leaves them wanting to return for more exploration. This tool kit offers suggestions for building destination-worthy trail systems.


posted Jun 15, 2020

Developing Water Trails in Iowa

Practical guidelines and templates for planning, site design, signage and construction in the state of Iowa.


published Jul 2011

Development of Trails along Canals, Flood Channels, and other Waterways

by Rails to Trails Conservancy

Shared-use pathways along the banks of irrigation canals, flood channels, and other waterways can serve important recreational and transportation functions. The easy grade, scenic interest, and minimal road crossings make shared-use paths along waterways highly attractive as trails for recreation, transportation, and a healthy, active lifestyle, particularly in urbanized areas.


posted Feb 19, 2018

Difficult Trails in Difficult Places

by Mark Wilcox with American Society of Landscape Architects, Bill Neumann with DHM Design, John M. Pflaum, PE

This presentation will reveal the process of planning, designing and constructing trails within four different landscape settings identifying challenges and solutions.


posted Feb 19, 2018

Dots and Dashes

This presentation will discuss how to incorporate shared use unpaved trail and paved path systems into city infrastructure.


posted Feb 5, 2018

Economic Impact of Livable Communities with Active Transportation Options

This webinar explores the concept of "Livable Communities" which include trails as a part of the transportation infrastructure.