by Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation
The intent of this 4th edition of a Tennessee Recreation Trails Manual is to help understand the dynamics of designing and building non-motorized trails.
The intent of this 4th edition of a Tennessee Recreation Trails Manual is to help understand the dynamics of designing and building non-motorized trails. Trail builders will learn the joy of discovering new places and the feelings of accomplishment from walking back over a newly constructed section of trail. This manual is just one of many resources that government agencies and non-government organizations have developed to promote the art and science of trail building. An index of resources can be found at the back of this document.
The goal of trail building is to create a long-term relationship between humans and nature. This is only possible through a clear understanding of the needs of each trail related agency laced with a healthy dose of day-to-day reality. Planning and responsibility are the keys to success. Learning how to build a trail is an ongoing, never ending process with each section of trail to be constructed a new challenge.
The trail designer/constructor learns over time the nuances of the forest, rocks and streams and how important it is to build a sustainable trail that is easy to maintain and becomes a natural part of the landscape. Sustainable trails minimize environmental impacts, are easy to travel and reduce future trail operation and maintenance costs.
posted Jul 26, 2023
This handbook is a collaboration of the Coalition for the Upper South Platte, Volunteers for Outdoor Colorado, and the Rocky Mountain Field Institute.
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.
Tools for Trails: Measuring and Surveying Tools
posted Nov 8, 2022
Before trail builders start digging, they first have to lay the trail, flag the line, and more to ensure a grade that not only matches the terrain but also is well throughout to prevent erosion.
GEOWEB® Geocells Repairs Storm-Damaged Recreational Trails Along Maine’s Coastline
posted Oct 3, 2022
GEOWEB® panels are used to reconstruct Kittery Point's walking trail and maintenance road.
