In conclusion As we’ve discovered, most of the Structures appropriate to the trail experience are important elements of sustainability
Designed use is the single managed use of a trail that requires the most demanding design, construction, and maintenance parameters. This is deter- mined by establishing the trail user group the trail will be designed for. In the case of multi-use trails, one user group will be determined to be the pri- mary which again, will drive design. design are; equestrians will need a hardened tread with a taller corridor height, runners prefer corners with open site lines, hikers may be drawn to gentler grades that end in destination view sheds, and mountain bikers will thrill in undulating, winding single track trails.
Managed use is mode of travel actively managed and appropriate on a trail. There can be more than one appro- priate mode of travel on a trail section. For example, a trail may be designed for hikers but also managed for runners by keeping sight lines clear and for emergency service access by keeping the corridor open to minimum width for rescue ATVs.
The other two trail fundamentals
are Trail Type and Class, such as pedes- trian, equestrian or OHV natural sur- face trails, and paved multi-use, snow, or water routes.
Head spinning yet? Hang with the
process, you’re getting close. Take the time to put a few additional master planning steps in motion. Finally there is documentation: compile all your survey data, mapping,
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and information that led to the designed and managed uses. Develop your trail construction and manage- prioritize development. Lastly, don’t forget: communicate with the public! OK, you’ve decided what kind of trail you’ll construct because of the cho- - ridor it can follow that is ecologically responsible and know how to build it physically sustainably. Go play in the dirt!
hard work of designing a long-lasting, truly sustainable trail is done before the spend up front will pay dividends in the end. You’ll see greatly improved eco-health, a decrease in trail density, time, and higher volunteer participation and commitment, along with increased patron use and satisfaction. A legacy you can leave to the future is to design a trail that will stand the test of time: one that protects the special nat- ural areas you are entrusted with, while providing an experience that inspires a personal connection to nature for genera- tions to come. This can be accomplished by combining physical, ecological, and social sustainability to design a trail that will truly last 100 years.
In his 12 years with MetroParks, Mike has helped to develop, construct, and maintain the 29-mile Twin Valley Backpacking Trail and worked in design, construction, and repair throughout MetroParks’ 75 miles of hiking trails and 30 miles of equestrian trails.
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