This webinar describes the three most common forms of trail impact, identifies the most influential factors to develop and maintain sustainable trail networks, and discusses methods for rating trail sustainability.
A “sustainable” trail or campsite can accommodate the intended type and amount of use over time without unacceptable levels of degradation or maintenance. This webinar will briefly describe the three most common forms of trail impact (trail soil loss, widening, and muddiness) and share findings from trail science studies conducted on the Appalachian Trail and other protected areas. These will focus on identifying the most influential factors that can be manipulated to develop and maintain sustainable trail networks, including trail grades, trail alignments (fall line vs side-hill), tread substrates, and tread drainage. Methods for rating trail sustainability will be presented, along with sustainable trail “Best Management Practices.”
Published July 2022
County of Los Angeles Trails Manual
The purpose of this Trails Manual is to provide an accessible resource that can be used for trail planning, design, construction, and maintenance within the County of Los Angeles
Market Research: Equity of Access to Trails
This study has been conducted in response to the imperative offered by the JEDI Task Force.
Fort River Birding and Nature Trail
The Fort River Birding and Nature Trail is a universally accessible trail. It was presented with the 2014 Paul Winske Access Award by the Stavros Center for Independent Living.
For trails to be considered “sustainable” they must meet these recreational needs while providing adequate protection to the environment while minimizing trail maintenance.
