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 Mar 13, 2018

Trails and Greenways for Livable Communities

To counteract the effects of sprawling development, many communities use trails and greenways to curb ill-planned growth and preserve ecologically important areas. The result is a higher quality of life, a healthier environment, and more livable communities.


posted Feb 1, 2018

Trails and Greenways: What’s Next?

This webinar covers the latest trends in the planning, promotion, and conservation of trail and greenway corridors.


posted Feb 12, 2018

Trails and the New Federal Accessibility Guidelines

This 90-minute webinar covered the trails portion of the final "Architectural Barriers Act Accessibility Guidelines; Outdoor Developed Areas." These new accessibility guidelines for federal lands cover new or altered trails, picnic and camping areas, viewing areas, beach access routes, and related recreation facilities.


published Jan 2018

Trails are Helping Build Healthier Communities

San Bernardino County finds trails are an essential part of healthy communities.


published Nov 2019

Trails Crossing on Active Railroad Lines

by Stuart Macdonald

One of the most difficult trail facilities to accomplish is a crossing of an active rail line.


posted Nov 4, 2014

Trails for All People

How can trail groups, local governments, and land trusts responsibly plan, develop, and operate trails that are accessible by all people, including those with limited mobility? What are best management practices? What is legally required? When is universal accessibility not appropriate?


published Sep 1966

Trails for America

by National Park Service

A 1966 study headed by Stuart Udall on the feasibility of a National Trails System


published Sep 2005

Trails in New Developments: A Case Study

by Roger Bell

With the growing frugality of government funding for trails, private developers can be significant partners in developing public trail systems.


posted Feb 19, 2018

Trails in Private Developments

by Jim Wood with Kimley-Horn Planning and Design Engineering Consultants, Todd Pokrywa with Schroeder-Manatee Ranch, Inc.

Hear a developer’s perspective on establishing a successful private development trails system for transportation and recreation purposes.


posted Feb 19, 2018

Trails in the Urban Landscape

How are trails being developed and programmed in our urban core?