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 Jul 22, 2020

Planning and Zoning Guide for Horse Friendly Communities

Since land is saved locally, it is vital that horsemen understand the basics of planning and zoning and how this impacts horse keeping, breeding, competing and recreating, as well as equine related businesses in their communities, in order to retain access to horses and enjoy their benefits.


published Oct 2000

Planning Healthier Suburbs, Where Cars Sit Idle and People Get Moving

The goal is to engineer more physical activity into American life to reduce both spreading obesity and the chronic, often lethal health problems linked to sedentary living.


published Jul 2018

Planning trails for Hidden Valley Park Natural Area

by Jimmi Lossing with Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism

A planning team comprised of the project partners and local residents was formed to address an unplanned system of trails and off-road vehicle routes in the Kansas City open space park.


published Sep 2018

Planning Trails With Wildlife In Mind - CASE STUDIES and PROJECTS

by American Trails Staff

See examples of trail design in habitat areas, techniques for managing visitors, trail system planning, habitat restoration, trails as part of habitat conservation, and education on the value of wildlife and habitat.


published Aug 2018

Planning Trails with Wildlife in Mind - Introduction

by American Trails Staff

This handbook will help trail planners and builders balance the benefits of creating trails and being stewards of nature, especially wildlife.


published Sep 1998

Planning Trails with Wildlife in Mind - Terminology

by American Trails Staff

A list of key words, concepts, and terms used in the study of wildlife habitat and outdoor recreation.


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 2018

Power lines along trails

by Stuart Macdonald

Examples of electric transmission lines in shared utility corridors with trails, railtrails, and greenways.


posted Jan 19, 2018

Presentation on Minnesota DNR’s Trail Manual

by Minnesota Department of Natural Resources

Provides a snapshot of new MN DNR’s Trail Manual - Importance of quality - Importance of sustainability


posted Aug 2, 2020

Prison Hill Recreation Area OHV Management Plan

by Carson City Parks, Recreation & Open Space

The purpose of the Prison Hill Recreation Area Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Management Plan is to provide the framework to proactively manage the approximately 960 acres open to OHV use by outlining a prescribed set of management activities. The plan will be implemented through a phased approach.