Results from a review of the literature and three scientific studies are presented to model and clarify the influence of factors that substantially influence trail soil loss and that can be manipulated by trail professionals to sustain high traffic while minimizing soil loss over time.
Natural-surfaced trail systems are an important infrastructure component providing a means for
accessing remote protected natural area destinations. The condition and usability of trails is a critical
concern of land managers charged with providing recreational access while preserving natural conditions, and to visitors seeking high quality recreational opportunities and experiences. While an adequate
number of trail management publications provide prescriptive guidance for designing, constructing, and
maintaining natural-surfaced trails, surprisingly little research has been directed at providing a scientific
basis for this guidance. Results from a review of the literature and three scientific studies are presented to
model and clarify the influence of factors that substantially influence trail soil loss and that can be
manipulated by trail professionals to sustain high traffic while minimizing soil loss over time. Key factors
include trail grade, slope alignment angle, tread drainage features, and the amount of rock in tread
substrates. A new Trail Sustainability Rating is developed and offered as a tool for evaluating or
improving the sustainability of existing or new trails.
Published November 2016
Building a Permeable, Low Maintenance Recreational Trail Along a Shoreline
posted Apr 7, 2023
In 2009, the city of The Colony planned to build a recreational trail (10 foot-wide, 3.5 mile pathway) that would run along the lake’s shoreline, contouring to its natural shape and providing residents with a picturesque route for outdoor activities such as walking, jogging, and cycling. The city selected the GEOWEB® Soil Stabilization System due to its flexibility to conform to curves, surface permeability, and low maintenance design.
posted Jul 15, 2022
This research investigated the influence of several use-related, environmental, and managerial factors on soil loss on recreational trails and roads at Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, a unit of the U.S. National Park Service.
All-Terrain Vehicle Sustainability Assessments
posted Jul 15, 2022
The sustainable management of ATV use is an expensive proposition requiring careful design, construction, and maintenance of ATV trails.
posted Jul 15, 2022
This research assessed the condition and sustainability of the trail system at Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, a National Park Service unit that partners with The Nature Conservancy (TNC) in the management of this unit.
