Resource Library:

Planning And Design

Subcategories • Accessible Trail DesignCase StudiesCost EstimatingFeasibility StudiesLivable/Active CommunitiesLand Acquisition and ConservationMaster PlansSignage and InterpretationTrailheadsTrail Networks DesignTrails as TransportationClosing Trail System GapsWildlife and Habitat



posted May 19, 2020

The Long Trails Project

by Portland State University, Oregon State Parks

This Long Trails Project has been conceived in partnership with the Oregon Parks Department to provide both a context and a definition for the Salmonberry Trail as part of a larger long trails network.


published Feb 2017

FAQ: Model Grant of Conservation Easement and Declaration of Covenants 7th Edition

This article provides users with a state-of-the-art legal document and guidance to customize it to nearly any situation. No conservation easement document has benefited from more real-world testing, user scrutiny, and cycles of peer review.


posted Mar 18, 2020

Introduction to Great Trails Workshops: What Makes a Great Trail Great?

This webinar will provide information on what makes a great trail great and will serve as an introduction to NOHVCC's Great Trails Workshops.


published May 2008

Best Practices of Accessibility in Parks and Recreation: A Delphi Survey of National Experts in Accessibility

As a result of frequent inquiries regarding best practices from practitioners, NCA initiated this research study in order to ascertain which practices in the field of parks and recreation accessibility management exceed the minimum standards set forth by the ADA and other disability-related legislation.


posted Feb 5, 2020

Ashuwilticook Rail Trail Abutter Survey

This survey will not only aid Trail managers and local officials in managing the existing trail and its users, but aid future planners in locating and designing trails that maximize benefits while reducing impacts.


published Nov 2001

Visitor Expectations and Perceptions of Program and Physical Accessibility in the National Park Service

The purpose of the study was to identify the perceptions of people with disabilities relative to program and physical accessibility in the National Park Service.


published Nov 2013

2013 Architectural Barriers Act Accessibility Guidelines; Outdoor Developed Areas

The Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board (Access Board), are issuing a final rule that amends the Architectural Barriers Act Accessibility Guidelines by adding scoping and technical requirements for camping facilities, picnic facilities, viewing areas, trails, and beach access routes constructed or altered by or on behalf of federal agencies. The final rule ensures that these facilities are readily accessible to and usable by individuals with disabilities.


published Jan 1993

Beach Access: Assist Devices and Surfaces

A Research Report of the National Center of Accessibility Original Study Conducted at Bradford Woods (1993)


published Jan 2011

Universal Accessibility of "Accessible" Fitness and Recreational Facilities for Persons With Mobility Disabilities

This study descriptively measured the universal accessibility of “accessible” fitness and recreational facilities for Ontarians living with mobility disabilities.


posted Feb 4, 2020

Appalachian Trail Conservation Guidebook

by Pennsylvania Department of Transportation

A Conservation Guidebook For Communities Along The Appalachian National Scenic Trail