published Jan 2010

Dale Shewalter, Founder of the Arizona Trail

by American Trails Staff

Dale was known as the "Father of the Arizona Trail" and guiding spirit for the Arizona Trail Association. Dale had a vision of a continuous path across Arizona, and in 1985 he undertook a journey on foot across the state.

published Jan 2010

Data Survey and Sampling Procedures to Quantify Recreation Use of National Forests in Alaska

by USDA Forest Service

Estimating visitor numbers and collecting information on visitor attitudes in Alaska national forests is especially challenging because of the dispersed access to the forests by a relatively small number of visitors.

published Jul 2019

DCR Trails Guidelines and Best Practices Manual

by Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation

The DCR’s Trails Program seeks to provide a safe, quality recreation experience for a diverse range of trail users while practicing sound stewardship of the Commonwealth’s natural and cultural resources. This “Trails Guidelines and Best Practices Manual” meets this responsibility by providing a consistent set of trail management policies, guidelines, procedures, and best practices in sustainable trail development.

published Jun 2007

Dedication of the Rich Guadagno Memorial Trail

by Pam Gluck with American Trails

The 1,000th National Recreation Trail dedicated to refuge manager killed on United Flight 93.

published Aug 2003

Design and Management for Backcountry Horse Trails

by Jim Murphy with Back Country Horsemen of America

Trail conflict occurs: among different user groups, among different users within the same group, and as a result of factors not related to a users' trail activities.

published Jan 2021

Design for Understanding: Protecting Trail Users in the Time of Covid-19

by Don Meeker with Terrabilt Wayfinding Systems

Don Meeker, president of Terrabilt, reflects on trails as a critical sanctuary during COVID-19, and provides guidance on signage to keep everyone on trails safe. Terrabilt will also provide the production artwork for their COVID-19 trail sign for free.

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.

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 Jul 2014

Developing Trail Systems Toolkit

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.