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 Jan 19, 2018

Wake County, North Carolina, Trail Design Guidelines

​The Consolidated Open Space Plan (COSP) guides the work of Wake County's Open Space Program. The Plan presents policy recommendations, program guidelines and suggested methods that should be used by the County and its partners to conserve remaining open space.


published Jan 2023

Walk Audit ToolKit

by AARP

A self-service guide for assessing a community’s walkability.


posted Aug 21, 2018

Walkable Edmonton Toolkit promotes a more active community

Here you’ll find a menu of advocacy ideas, design concepts and walkability tools, each with links to numerous other resources. You’ll discover interesting destinations and group efforts that make walking in Edmonton interesting and fun. You’ll learn about civic initiatives that may dovetail with your interests.


published Aug 2009

Walking the Walk: How Walkability Raises Home Values in U.S. Cities

Houses with the above-average levels of walkability command a premium of about $4,000 to $34,000 over houses with just average levels of walkability in the typical metropolitan areas studied.


posted Feb 17, 2018

Water Trail Accessibility

This course is designed to help water trail managers and outfitters improve opportunities for people of all backgrounds and abilities to enjoy water trails.


posted Feb 6, 2018

Water Trail Ambassador and Stewardship Programs

The best water trails link outdoor recreation to conservation and stewardship opportunities. This a symbiotic relationship between recreating on waterways and protecting them doesn’t occur without effort. This webinar will explore water trail ambassador programs from coast to coast.


posted Jun 15, 2020

Water Trail Planning 101

by National Park Service

A quick how to slidehow/guide for developing water trails


published Jul 2020

Wayfinding Signs: Who, What, When, Where, and Why

by Taylor Goodrich with American Trails

Wayfinding signs are the perfect way to easily communicate with trail users and keep them safe and oriented on the trail.


published Sep 2001

Wetland Trail Design and Construction

by Federal Highway Administration

This manual describes the common techniques for building a wetland trail.


posted Feb 19, 2018

What Went Wrong?

What happens when things don’t go as planned?