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



posted Feb 19, 2018

Equestrian Trails

by Jan Hancock with Hancock Resources LLC, Michele (Kebea) Adams, Clay Nelson with Sustainable Stables

Sustainable, environmentally sensitive equestrian trailhead and trail design.


published Mar 2005

Establishment Proposal, Environmental Assessment, Conceptual Management Plan, & Land Protection Plan

by U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service

This plan establishes the purpose and need for action to develop the Neches River National Wildlife Refuge. The refuge opened on April 13, 2019.


posted Feb 19, 2018

Europeans Prefer Quality Trails

Making trails attractive to hikers.


published Oct 2009

FAQ: Building trails near ports

by American Trails Staff

Examples of combined recreational and industrial uses on east and west coast port properties.


published Feb 2012

FAQ: Constructing a 10' bike trail without having to relocate power poles

by American Trails Staff

What can you do when a proposed bike trail encounters obstacles such as power poles.


published May 2018

FAQ: Do you have any advice for developing a community nature trail?

by American Trails Staff

An ideal nature trail blends the beauty of the landscape with interpretive signage to offer an inspirational and educational resource to a community.



published Feb 2017

FAQ: Model Grant of Conservation Easement and Declaration of Covenants 7th Edition

This article provides users with a state-of-the-art legal document and guidance to customize it to nearly any situation. No conservation easement document has benefited from more real-world testing, user scrutiny, and cycles of peer review.


posted Aug 23, 2021

Feasibility Study of the 90-Mile Multi-Use Ohlone-Portolá Heritage Trail

This webinar will discuss the ins and outs of a feasibility study done on the 90-mile multi-use trail to interpret early California history in San Mateo County.


posted Feb 19, 2018

Federal Funds for Transportation and Recreation

by Christopher Douwes with Federal Highway Administration, Bob Richards with Tennessee Greenways and Trails

How to apply for Federal-aid funds