Guidelines for accessing, designing, and building launch sites for carry-in watercraft.
Why This Document: To help facility and trail planners, and park and recreation project leaders when planning, building, or updating access sites that are tailored to the needs of the canoeists, kayakers, tubers, stand-up paddlers, rowers, or small craft sailors (commonly referred to as “paddlers” in this document). Prepare to Launch! will help with:
• Understanding Launch Locations by addressing shoreline characteristics along rivers, lakes, and bays
• Addressing Users’ Launch Needs by looking at the various types of users and watercraft, amount of traffic, and accessibility needs
• Understanding Launch Design Criteria that can be shared with a contractor, engineer, or designer, depending on the complexity of the site
• Promoting Your Launch Project by offering tips to help make decisions about appropriate launch design and construction and by helping to organize examples that can then help gain community support and fundraising.
Sustainable Trail Bridge Design
posted Oct 7, 2021
Designing trail bridges based on trail-specific Trail Management Objectives (TMOs) is essential for providing the desired trail experience, for ensuring user safety, and for maximizing bridge longevity.
Ramps for Accessible Trails and Shared-Use Pathways
posted Nov 5, 2019
Ramps, typically used for building access, are often provided on trails.
Steel Trail Bridges on Shared-use Urban Pathways
posted Oct 24, 2019
A variety of steel-frame commercial bridges along typical multiple-use trails.
Getting Real with Preservative-Treated Wood for Trail Structures
posted Jun 11, 2019
Wood is sustainable and renewable. We can extend the life of wood far beyond the time it takes to grow a new tree.
416 views • posted 06/15/2020