INTRODUCTION

THE SIMCOE COUNTY TRAILS PROGRAM

The County has, for over 10 years, investigated the development of trails. County staff had prepared a Staff Report in
2007 that evaluated a County position with respect to trails. In 2009, a grant was obtained by the County of Simcoe and
Huronia Trails and Greenways to create a review of existing trails and produce a Master Plan for trails in Simcoe County.

At present the County has no mission towards trails, save and except to investigate, evaluate, and divulge a position on
trail development in Simcoe County. The Trails shall be divided into three sectors:

Green Trails – Walking/Biking

Gold Trails – Motorized
Blue Trails – Water based trails

The information on trails has greatly evolved over the past 15 years to this juncture in time. The County will look at
current information and review the progression of the desire and demand by citizens and visitors to the County of Simcoe.

TRAIL DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT PLANNING

Simcoe County has adopted guiding policies regarding trails acquisition and advocacy that this Trail Design and
Management Planning Handbook is designed to implement. Building and operating a quality trail system requires the
appropriate, site-specific application of functional, cost-effective, low impact, and easily maintained design concepts.
Every trail segment presents different physical conditions and management challenges. The implementation of design and
management standards must be flexible enough to adapt to those changing needs while still achieving the overall trail
objectives of the County. The County’s trail practices will seek to preserve and enhance the ecological, scenic,
agricultural, and cultural resources acquired through the Trails Program or through land use approvals.

Trail design and management planning are intended to help ensure that obligations are met through a thorough planning
requirement, which is consistently applied to each individual trail project. The trail design process seeks continuity and
consistent quality, but avoids the strict application of rigid design specifications where creative adaptations of the design
guidelines can achieve a superior outcome.

The management planning process seeks to identify, in advance, the appropriate uses for a trail, its maintenance needs,
the likely management issues, and the management resources that can be applied.

The stages of the planning process consist of the following components:

• Establishment of an organizational structure ( eg, committee consisting of Parks Dept, Public Works, traffic and
police
• Assessment of situation ( factors affecting trail development)
• Elaboration of plan (formulation of planned objectives eg. Concept, financing, approvals, layout, cost estimates
and final approvals)
• Implementation of plan (update bylaws, information campaign, maintenance, evaluation)
• Evaluation of facilities ( review of plan by users to determine if changes are required)
 Trail Budgets

of the most important phases of trails development is designing a reasonable and practical trail construction budget.
following tables are examples of possible trail unit prices for various trail construction components. These figures are
examples and subject to change depending on many variables

tem Unit Unit Price Assumptions

On-road routes:
Paving existing LM $120.00 Price per two
shoulders
Construct new shoulders LM $300.00 Price per two sides
and pave
Pave shoulder as part of LM $180.00 Price per two sides
road reconstruction
Construct bike lane new LM $360.00 Price per two sides
construction
Construct bike lane as LM $180.00 Price per two sides
part of road
reconstruction
Paint bike lane on LM $20.00 Price per two sides and
existing road includes signage
Construct wide shared LM $360.00 Price per two sides
ane new construction
Minor spot repairs on LM $1.00 Minor spot repair eg,
existing asphalt road pothole filling prior to
designation for cycle
route
Construct wide shared LM $180.00 Price per two sides
ane as part of road
reconstruction
On-road signed route Lm $2.00 Price per two sides,
assumes signs at
corners (100m average)
Replace catch basin Each $260.00
covers with bicycle
riendly model
Traffic control sign Each $200.00 MTO standard
Construct pedestrian each $20,000.00
refuge
nstall pedestrian each $60,000.00 Varies depending on the
activated traffic signal number of signal heads
required
Construct concrete LM $75.00 On side of street only
sidewalks
Construct pedestrian each $750,000.000
overpass of major
arterial/ highway
Route sign Each $100.00 Average $2,000/km price
for two sides
Transition Areas: (on-
road to off-road:
Tail/road transition each $2,500.00 Typically includes 3
bollards,warning signs,curb
cuts, and minimal restoration
3.0m
Trail/road transition at each $3,000.00 At intersection with pedestrian
existing signalized crosswalk typically includes 6
interesection bollards, warning signs and
minimal restoration
At grade mid-block each $5,000.00 Typically includes pavement
crossing markings, 6 bollards, warning
signs, curb cuts and minimal
restoration
At grade railway crossing each $64,000.00 Flashing lights, motion sensing
switch (CN estimate)
Below-grade railway each $500,000.00 3.0m wide unlit culvert style,
crossing approx. 10 m long for single
elevated railway track.
Multi-use subway under each $1,200,000.00 3.3m wide
4 lane road

Item Unit Unit Price Assumptions

Off-road Routes Trail
Surfacing
Rough grading LM $12.00 Includes leveling and
packing after leveling
(3.5m wide)
Construct new granular LM $45.00 Normal site conditions
surface trail (3.5m wide)
Construct new asphalt LM $80.00 Normal site conditions
trail (3.5m wide)
Upgrading gravel tar and LM $12.00 Includes 1 coat of primer
chip and 2 coats of surface
(areas requiring trail
hardening – 3.5m wide)
Upgrading gravel trail to LM $45.00 Price includes some
asphalt upgrades to base (3.5m
wide)
Construct woodchip trail Lm $25.00 3.0 m wide
Construct single track Lm $10.00 Includes cleaning,
trail grubbing minor attention
to high and low points
(1.5m wide)

Item Unit Unit Price Assumptions

Off-road routes:
signage
Regulatory and caution each $75.00 Trailside sign 300mm x
signage off-road trail 300mm c/w metal post
Traffic sign- on-road each $200.00 Per MTO specs
Regulatory signs each $75.00 Same as above
Interpretive signs each $800.00 Painted wood, 1m x
1.2m, sign only
Trail head kiosk each $3,000.00
Sign boards for trailhead each $2,000.00
kiosk
Directional sign markers each $50.00 Bollard post/ w 100mm x
100mm marker
 tem Unit Unit Price Assumptions
Off- road Routes:
Barriers and Access
Lockable gate (2 per each $2,000.00 Price indicated for one
road crossing) side of road (2 required )
Berming/boulders at road each $500.00 Price indicated for one
crossing side of road (2 sides
required)
Granular parking lot at each $10,000.00
staging area (15 car
capacity- gravel)
Chain link fencing LM $50.00 Range of $35 to $66/lm
depending on height,
guage and site
conditions
Post and wire fencing LM $35.00
Armourstone retaining Face M $180.00
wall
Timber retaining edge LM $20.00
Metal offset gates each $1,200.00 Provide 4 ($4,800.00)
per crossing to create
maze type barrier
Shoreline stabilization LM $400.00 2 stacked rows of
armourstone retaining
wall with filter cloth and
gravel backfill

tem Unit Unit Price Assumptions

Off-road Routes:
Structures
Culvert repairs (major) each $2,500.00
Culvert repair (minor) LM $90.00 Csp culvert, 300mm
diameter, normal site
conditions
New concrete box culvert each $10,000.00 Assumes length of 10m
(walkthrough) +/- with good access for
construction
450mm dia. Csp culvert each $1,500.00 Assumes length 10m +/-
with good access for
construction
Pedestrian bridge (light LM $500 Complete with handrails
duty) (3.0m wide)
Self weathering steel LM $2,800.00 3.5m wide
russ pedestrian bridge
Self weathering steel LM $1,800.00 1.8m wide
russ pedestrian bridge
New boardwalk LM $600.00 New construction
(pedestrian light duty) includes footings and
decking 2.5m wide (wood
structure)
Bridge abutments each $5,000.00
Pile footings each $14,000.00
Timber stairs and hand vertical m $1,500.00 1.2m wide
railing
Metal stairs with hand vertical m $3,000.00 1.8m wide galvanized
railing and gutter roll steel stairs
bicycle
 Item Unit Unit Price Assumptions
Off-road Routes: Site
Furnishings
benches each $600.00 Can be as low as $200
for low tech. bench
Garbage containers each $150.00
Bicycle rack each $70.00 Post and ring style stand
Bicycle rack each $500.00 Holds 6 bicycles, price
varies depending on
manufacturer
Bicycle locker each $2,500.00 Price varies depending
on manufacturer
Construct washroom each $3,500.00 Wood structure with
building concrete holding tank

Item Unit Unit Price Assumptions

Off-road Routes:
Lighting
Power pedestals each $2,100.00 Typically one required
per circuit
Light standard each $1,800.00 4.5m high with wiring and
photocell (typically set at
40 m intervals)
Bicycle rack each $70.00 Post and ring style stand

THE COMPLETE TRAIL APPROVAL PROCESS

The development of the Collingwood Trail Network will occur within the context of the Town of Collingwood land use
regulations as described in this Handbook. In order to provide the information necessary to prepare a trail proposal, this
Handbook is laid out as follows:

Section 1 Trail Environmental Studies

Section 2 Trail Design Process and Guidelines

This section presents a general design process and guidelines for most trail types. The design of trails should
follow this process and meet these guidelines as much as possible.

Section 3 Multiple Use Hard Surface Trail Specifications

Section 4 Crusher Fines Trail Specifications

Together, Sections 2 and 3 present the Town’s design guidelines for these trail types and for trail system im-
provements. The goals, design concepts, recommended specifications, and anticipated maintenance needs for
each trail type are presented and explained. Where a feature or concept applies to both trail types, it is presented
in Section 2.
 Trail Design Process and Guidelines

SECTION 1

ENVIRONMENTAL APPROVALS
The Value of Environmental Impact Studies as it Pertains to Community Trail Construction

Benefits of Environmental Studies

Conducting an Environmental Impact Study should be the first phase of any trail construction project for a number of very
important reasons. First and foremost is it is often a prerequisite for most types of funding agencies if trail construction
relies on outside funding in anyway to complete the project. The following is a list of reasons why impact studies should
be conducted prior to trail construction:

1. Impact studies provide a list of flora and fauna found on the proposed trail development site and can identify rare
endemic plants that may need to be protected during trail construction. Similarly it can also identify invasive plant
species that could be removed during the construction phase. Having this information will assist with trail design as
well and allow planners to re-route the trail if necessary around environmentally sensitive areas

Photo 1 example of environmentally sensitive coastal area requiring Environmental Assessment and
possibly permits from Government Agencies.

2. Environmental surveys of native plants and animals and drainage conditions assesses the impact that a
proposed trail may have on the local ecosystem and reduces the possibilities of problems encountered as a result of

1-4 Trails Design and Management Planning Handbook

trail placement. For example, migration routes of local wildlife, bird and reptile nesting, and probably most important
are the site drainage patterns that are identified and mapped during an impact study. This information helps
planners to design trails properly with the appropriate criteria supplied by the study.

3. Pre-studies show due diligence on behalf of the trail development agencies and assist during and after trail
construction to answer questions the public, town councils, conservation authorities, Ministry of Natural Resources
and the Department of Fisheries and Oceans may have regarding your proposed trail project.

4. Often proposed trail routes run thru or adjacent to environmentally sensitive area like wetlands and streams.
These studies aid in identifying important features like fish habitat and or wetland ecosystems and indicate the
possible need for permit acquisition to local conservation authorities were fill guidelines may apply or to the MNR and
DFO for development permits in or near possible fish habitat which requires protection, prior to trail development.

Photo 2. example of trail running through woodlot possibly requiring tree cutting permit depending on local
by-laws.
 Trail Design Process and Guidelines

Photo 3. Example of dried navigable water way requiring Assessment, DFO and conservation authority
review and permits.

5. Impact studies will identify if a proposed trail plan is even feasible given the growing list of environmental
concerns that planners will come up against with their proposed trail design and can act as a guideline for trail
development. For example if the proposed trail route is to cross a wet area inundated with rare endemic plants then
the impact study can point out the need to perhaps construct a raised boardwalk through the sensitive area rather
than the typical fill and surfaced trail proposed in an original plan.

6. Impact studies can make structural suggestions regarding aggregate sizes for trail bases to reduce surface water
impact and make suggestions as to building materials used to reduce environmental impacts

7. Studies can also point out the need for environmental protection during construction phases in the form of
required silt curtains or check dams near bodies of water to prevent siltation and the unfortunate possibility of
charges being laid under DFO habitat destruction laws. In addition environmental impact studies outline any site
remediation works that should take place after construction is complete.

8. Often government work permits from MNR, CA’s and DFO are a compromise situation and a study can supply
possible mitigation responses to situations that may arise from trail construction. This is an important feature in any
trail project to facilitate permit acquisition should permits be required for trail projects.

9. Many municipalities now have tree cutting permits and since trail construction often requires the removal of some
trees in order to create a safe trail for its users a study can provide information on the numbers of trees to be
removed and in some case suggest alternative routes around old story trees that require protection. Similarly a
study can point out what is termed “wolf trees” and make recommendations of their removal for safety reasons and
to allow sunlight through the tree crown in order to facilitate desired forest regeneration where applicable.

10.Studies can make suggestions as to possible alternate routes that can be opened in the future to allow heavily
traveled and impacted areas to regenerate on their own before damage to the site is irreversible.

1-4 Trails Design and Management Planning Handbook

 Why Conduct Environmental Assessments or Impact Studies?

In most cases where proposed trails run through environmentally sensitive areas or close to water courses and the
Canadian Environmental Assessment Act requires you conduct studies prior to beginning trail construction. Basically a
report must review the environmental effects of a project as defined by the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act
which refers to “ any change that the project may cause in the environment, including any effect of any such
change on health and socio-economic conditions, on physical and cultural heritage, on the current use of lands
and resources for traditional purposes by aboriginal persons, or on any structure, site or thing that is historical
archaeological, paleontological or architectural significance.”

Part of any assessment requires that you contact any Federal Department or Agency for the required permits or
authorization to conduct the proposed work. This review and approval process can take up to one year depending on the
complexity of your proposal.

Photo 4 . Example of boardwalk running through a wetland, which requires full assessment and permits
from government agencies.

As a general guideline, if your proposed project encompasses any of the following activities, then an environmental
assessment is required:
• Will the project activities involve construction, operation, modification, decommissioning, or abandonment of any
building, dam, structure, trail, park or other related facilities?
• Will the project occur in, on or within 30 meters of any body of water or wetland?
• Is there a chance your project could release any deleterious or polluting substance into a water body or wetland
during or after the project begins?
• Does the project involve any cleanup, storage, handling or use of any hazardous materials/
• Will the project require the use of heavy equipment during construction or after the project has been completed?
• Does the project occur in an undeveloped area?
• Has the public been consulted about the proposed project or are there plans in place to inform interested
parties?
 Trail Design Process and Guidelines

• A description of the level of support from the public sector regarding construction and operation of the project is
required
• Does the project require the removal of fuel tanks or deleterious materials?
• Does the project involve the refurbishing of old facilities or buildings (are lead based paints involved)?
• Are there any future phases, expansion or additional plans for the proposed project?
• Will the proposed plan impact the environment in any way?

Photo 4. example of bridge crossing channel which still requires assessment, review and permits prior to
construction

Environmental Assessment Components

In order to comply with the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act any document should contain the screening report,
maps, letters of support and complaints as well as the name of the document, the date it was written, the authors name
and qualifications

The main body of the assessment should list the proponent’s name, and the project contact person. In addition the
document should list a proposed a start and end date as well as a description of the proposed work involved. Items like
the proposed and future activities, construction of buildings docks, ponds, boardwalks, fences and trails should be noted.
Describe future maintenance and list if pesticides or other methods will be used to maintain project once it is complete.
List heavy equipment to be used during and after the project is complete. Indicate if the proposed project will allow
motorized vehicles to use facilities.

Make sure you provide an exact location for the proposed project. GPS coordinates are best if possible. Provide a legal
description of property and include maps showing boundries where possible. State county and regional jurisdiction and
indicate if the proposed project is near or adjacent to Wildlife preserves, wilderness areas, protected areas or natural
surface water re-charge areas. Make sure you name all rivers, streams, ponds and lakes within 200 m of your proposed
project. Include dates you will be working near these bodies of water. Accurately document is the project is near any
wildlife areas, breeding, feeding and loafing areas for waterfowl and list potential endangered species (birds, fauna,

1-4 Trails Design and Management Planning Handbook

raptors, mammals, amphibians, reptiles, fish or fish resources). Make sure the report involves detailed descriptions of
bank heights and slopes near streams, the natural shore (rock, gravel, clay and silt). Describe the vegetation present
(trees, shrubs and plants, especially habitat for rare vascular plants). Note the soil type and the general environmental
condition of the site. It is also important to document the past land-use like historical, archaeological, architectural, or
paleontological information.
The actual owners of the site such as public, Indian reserve, federal land, county forest, provincial park, or historic site.
Also indicate if your project crosses private land and provide the necessary permission letters with the report. In addition
describe in detail current and historical land-uses, zoning and conformance with local by-laws if pertinent to your project.

Public Consultation is the main component of any assessment and the best way to handle this information is to create a
table listing the name of the individual or organization making the statement, the date, the manner of consultation, the
reason for the consultation or concern and the results. A similar table should also be included listing the government
consultation and concerns.

Name of Date Manner of Reason for Results

individual/ consultation consultation or
organization concern

Table 1. Example of Public Consultations and Concerns

Environmental assessments review the possible impacts and also may specify the malfunctions, failures and accidents
that may occur during and after your project has been constructed. The significance of these failures should be indicated.
The study should outline possible cumulative effects of your project and note if vegetation or soil is to be disturbed. In
addition, notes should be included about possible impacts on wildlife habitat and the possibility of siltation into bodies of
water near your proposed work sites.

Probably one of the best ways to document the above criteria again is in table form where each component is listed and
a score of 0 to 3 be awarded to these components indicating the degree of positive or negative impact. In the table 0
would indicate “no impact” and + or minus 1 to 3 would incidate increasingly higher or lower degrees of impact. For
example +1 would indicate positive a low impact , - 1 would indicate a negative low impact. Plus (+) 2 would represent
positive moderate impact and – 2 would be moderate negative impact. Plus 3 would represent positive high impact and –
3 would mean negative high impact. This being the highest degree awarded to any project component for impact.

Resource Significance Description of Impact

Fish/ fish habitat
Marine waters
Valued Ecosystems
Table 2. Example of environmental effects and significance matrix.

The column headings would include a variety of resources that could be impacted, the plus or minus score awarded to
the impact and a brief description of the impact. The following components should be included under the resources
column:
• Groundwater (quality and quantity)
• Surface water (quality and quantity)
• Rivers an lakes
• Marine waters
• Fish and fish habitat
• Valued ecosystems
• Public interest
• Land use
• Community and social service
• Health and safety
• Municipal services
• Native lands
• Navigation
 Trail Design Process and Guidelines

• Wetlands
• Soils
• Permafrost
• Geology
• Air quality
• Weather and climate
• Economics
• Regional and local planning
• Cumulative sociological effects

The final stages of the report should include a section dedicated to comments and concerns regarding the project and
should discuss proposed mitigation measures as well. In addition the assessor should recommend various course of
action to avoid encountering problems and complaints from both the private and government sectors. Finally the report
should include the assessors contact information and qualifications to conduct these types of studies. The Environmental
Assessment Act does not stipulate who can or cannot conduct these studies but does recommend the person(s) have an
environmental background and a degree or diploma in this field.

Field Studies

Field studies can be conducted at any time of year even in winter although the best time is summer for plant
identification. The best approach to trail studies is to have the proposed route flagged with marking tape and have the
surveyor walk the planned route to identify the various components that will be impacted by the proposed trail
development. Maps and aerial photos with the aid of a stereoscope aid in identifying trees and geography along the
proposed route before entering the field. As the surveyor walks the proposed route data and photos are collected along
the way to aid with the assembly of a final report. Depending on the size of the proposed project impact studies take
approximately 3 week to complete with 1 week in the field and 2 weeks to complete the report. Costs vary depending on
the firm hired to complete the report.

TRAIL DESIGN PROCESS AND GUIDELINES

CONSIDER THE DIFFERENCE between a distance to cross and a journey to enjoy. While good engineering and
construction are necessary in order to create a usable and sustainable trail, the subjective and intangible elements of the
site, the ways that the trail integrates with the site, and the ways that the trail supports its users are what make it enjoy-
able. The ultimate purpose of all trail planning and design is to maximize the user’s experience on the trail. The County
adheres to this philosophy and believes that creating a high quality, all season series of trails through the County, that
contribute to the area’s development, while connecting all communities by a safe, off-road, multi-use trail system is a
goal that needs to be achieved.

Design Basics

This section of the Handbook is intended to give an overview of some of the aspects of trail design and management
planning which supports the above goal. This is by no means a complete coverage of these subjects. Rather, it is
presented here as a primer to help conceive and improve the design of trails as they relate to users, site, environment,
construction, and maintenance.

Follow the remainder of this section in sequence to help develop the basic purpose, use, and experience of the
trail, and then refer to Sections 2 & 3 for specific guidelines, restrictions, and construction techniques.

1-4 Trails Design and Management Planning Handbook

Location of the Trail
The first considerations are:

• Location of the trail.

• Users of the trail.
• Purpose of the trail.

Ask yourself what type of trail would you want to use? Would you recommend it to your friends? Will it provide a
fresh and enjoyable experience each time you use it? Remember the forgotten and forsaken trails and facilities
you’ve seen that were built with good intentions but in the wrong place or in the wrong way. If your trail cannot attract
enthusiastic support, you should either reconsider your trail proposal or use the following information to modify the
trail.

B. Trail Purpose
Trails in the County are intended to be useful for recreation. In addition, trails should be useful for transportation
where possible and appropriate.

• Recreation trails. Trails can be purely recreational, such as a loop trail through an open space parcel.
Recreational trails can also provide connections with and access to other trails of any type, including trails
managed by other agencies. As part of their recreational component, all trails should seek to access,
preserve, and enhance scenic, natural, historic, geologic, open space, greenbelt, wildlife habitat, and
floodplain values. The presence of the trail and its users should not adversely affect the above values of the
site.

• Recreation and transportation trails. Through alignment, design, and construction, some trails can
also be useful for transportation by connecting destination points and/or by providing alternatives to the road
system. These are primarily hard surface multiple use trails but can also be crusher fines surface or natural
surface trails, which connect destinations.

A trail useful for transportation should also provide a good trail experience, which encourages people to use the trail.
Optimize the trail for the same recreational and open space values as given above, and optimize the transportation
function through alignment and design that creates safe and easy movement along the trail. The design and
construction specifications for each trail type are meant to enhance both recreation and transportation functions.

Users, Usage Levels and User Conflicts

• Identify who the users are. Potential users include walkers, hikers, joggers, runners, road bikers,
mountain bikers, equestrians, inline skaters, cross-country skiers, baby carriages, wheelchair users,
snowmobiles, ATV’s, dirt bikes etc.

• Estimate the level of use for each user type. For a typical busy day, try to estimate the expected
number of each user type once the trail is well known and accepted. Include potential tourists. Use a typical
busy day for each user type as appropriate (i.e., bicycles in summer, cross-country skiers in winter). Use the
following terms and ranges to estimate the number of each user type (exact figures aren’t necessary):

Number of users per busy day

Very Low <25

Low 25-100
Moderate 100-200
High 200-400
Very High > 400

• Estimate the average total number of users in the busiest season. In order to select the type
and width of the trail, use the numbers estimated for each user type to estimate the total number of users on
 Trail Design Process and Guidelines

the trail on a typical busy day in the busiest season. (See the table “Trail widths based on usage level” p.1-
4).

• Is the trail clearly suited for some users at the exclusion of others? Consider soils, the site,
wildlife, and the speed of users, maintenance, and the user base. See the guidelines under Usage and Site
Parameters in each of Sections 2 & 3 for specifics on usage types for the different trail types. If specific uses
are to be prohibited, can the rules be enforced? Can access for the physically challenged be provided?

• Plan to avoid or minimize user conflicts. Trails need to be of sufficient width and standards to
accommodate the intended users. Use the usage levels determined above to determine the trail width from
the table Trail widths based on usage level, which follows. Use the guidelines in Sections 2 & 3 to avoid user
conflict where possible, and use education as a key to avoiding user conflict.

• Trail counters. Are the most common methods of ascertaining trail use requirements. Information
compiled from trail counters can be used to determine traffic volume on trails and aid with planning
requirements. In a study conducted by the United Sates Department of Agriculture in 1999 it was determined
that the active infrared system is one of the best systems for most trail monitoring. Active infrared systems
must be mounted above the ground and placed well off the trail. Counters are at risk from vandalism so
special care must be taken to hide the counter. Careful site selection and installation is important to obtain
accurate counts. Counters must be mounted on rigid supports that are not going to move and affect the
beam alignment. Make sure beam pathway is kept clear of obstructions like branches . Alignment must be
checked one week after installation to ensure nothing has move. Data can be downloaded to reflect total
counts per weekday, am or pm traffic or day or night counts. Depending on the make of the counter a battery
can last up to 2 to 4 yrs. For further information on trail counters consult with www.trailmaster.com or
www.diamondtraffic.com

Trail Type and Width

• Determine the trail type. Given the proposed users and considering the Usage and Site parameters
for the trail types, use the Trail types and trail users table on following page, to help determine the type of
trail to construct. Note that, depending on the chosen type and the site, certain uses may be excluded. The
proposed management plan for the trail is also a factor in determining supported and excluded uses. Also
note that special site parameters or design methods may be needed to provide for some uses.

• Determine the width of the trail. The width of the trail depends on the expected usage. Use the
table Trail widths based on usage level, on following page, to help determine the width of the trail. The
ranges given in the table are guidelines that should be tailored to the particular trail and usage
characteristics. The width should be toward the high end of the range when:

- users move at different speeds and need to pass (such as bicycles and hikers)
- some users require additional space (such as bicyclists and equestrians)
- frequent or primary use of a trail is by groups of users

When ranges are given for other than hard surface trails, the trail width can also vary from place to place as
appropriate to the site. The type of trail to use is determined by the expected users, the usage level, and the
trail purpose.

The County of Simcoe recognizes three different trail types:

1. Hard Surface Multiple Use Paths

These are used for high-use trails, which can accommodate the widest variety and volume of non-motorized
vehicles and users. Hard surface paths should meet ADA guidelines (or Canadian equivalent) for
accessibility to the physically challenged. These paths usually serve as part of an alternate transportation

1-4 Trails Design and Management Planning Handbook

 system for the town and should be designed for both recreation and transportation. Usage can be year-round
or seasonal (i.e., cross-country skiing, snowmobiles in winter) depending on the path, site, and
environmental conditions.

With respect to the needs of trail users, concrete and asphalt trails are preferred in areas where it suits the
environment and user in which the trail is being developed. Typically concrete surfaces are preferred in high
use areas within a Town/Village/City center core and asphalt surfaces are designed in medium use areas,
branching from the Town/Village/City’s center core to the Town/Village/City limits.

2. Crusher Fines Surface Paths

A crusher fines or natural surface trail should be provided wherever feasible for pedestrians, runners, and
equestrians who want a more natural experience or a softer surface. This trail has more freedom to wind and
roll with the terrain and should be designed as a way to access and explore quiet areas. The crusher fines or
natural surface trail is typically not maintained during the winter months, but this does not preclude winter
usage.

These are suited for trails with moderate use in urban, suburban, and easily accessed undeveloped areas but where
multiple use is not a priority. Neighborhood open space access, some long-distance moderate-use recreational trails,
and some high-use sections of country hiking/biking trails are well suited for crusher fines surfaces. Crusher Fines
surfaces can also be developed as a beginning stage as funds allow for the trail to be developed into either concrete or
asphalt.

Usage includes hiking, running, biking (mountain bike as opposed to road bike), limited equestrian, and cross-country
skiers. This type of trail should be barrier-free to some physically challenged individuals. Cross-country ski use should be
possible in winter when snow and site conditions permit (although trails do not necessarily have to be mechanically
groomed for cross-country skiing). For details on usage, see Usage and Site Parameters in Section 3.

Trail types and trail users

For the three trail types, potential users are listed. Refer to the notes below for the usage conditions for each italicized
usage. Note that in order to provide for conditional or marginal uses, site conditions may need to fit certain parameters
and/or the trail design, construction, and maintenance may need to be modified. See guidelines under Site and Usage
Parameters in section 3 for details of the particular trail type.

Multiple Use Hard Surface Equestrians*

Baby carriages Hikers
Bicyclists (mountain bikes) Snowmobile*
Bicyclists (road bikes) ATV*
Hikers** Joggers
Inline skaters Nordic skiers t
Joggers** Runners
Nordic skiers t Walkers
Runners** Wheelchair users t+
Walkers
Wheelchair users

Crusher Fines Surface

Baby carriage t
Bicyclists (mountain bikes)*
Bicyclists (road bikes) t
Equestrians* t
Hikers
Snowmobile*
ATV*
Joggers
Nordic skiers t
Runners
Walkers
Wheelchair users t+
Natural Surface
Bicyclists (mountain bikes)*
 Trail Design Process and Guidelines

* May or may not be permitted depending on the site, design, and management plan for the specific trail and any Town By-laws.
**Best on soft surface trail.
t Usage may or may not be suitable depending on the site, design, structure, and surface of the specific trail.
+ Indicates a possible but not optimized usage. Site, structural, and management elements of the specific trail determine, create, or improve access

Trail widths based on usage level

For the usage level, use the estimated total number of users on a typical busy day in the busiest season. If group usage is
common, use the wider width in the range where applicable. Cross-country skier use or frequent or primary usage by
larger groups (school classes, etc.) may require additional width along the entire trail.

Usage Level

Path type Very Low Low Moderate High Very High

(<25) (25-100) (100-200) (200-400) (>400)
Multiple use hard
10’ 10’ 10’ 12’ 12’
surface
Crusher fines surface,
10’ 10’ 10’ 12’ 12’
bikes
Crusher fines surface,
9’ 9’ 9’ 10’ 10’
no bikes

Natural surface 4’t 4’t 4’t 8’tt 8’tt

t Construction and maintenance can be expensive (and the natural appearance of the trail compromised) if the cross slope is less than 10% (15% if the
trail width is more than 2’). Consider using crusher fines on at least the parts of the trail with a cross slope of less than 15%.
tt Often requires high and expensive maintenance. Maintenance can be minimized in well drained, cohesive (i.e., not sandy) mineral soil on at least a
20% cross slope. If these conditions cannot be met, a crusher fines surface is recommended.

3. Natural Surface Trail

These are suitable for low to moderate use country and backcountry hiking trails where a natural and undeveloped feel is
desired. Construction, maintenance, and sustainability are easiest when trail grades are below 10% and cross slopes are
at least 15%. Depending on soils, terrain, and trail grade, they may also be suitable for equestrian and/ or mountain bike
use. Trail width can vary to handle the expected volume and types of use. Where feasible, sections near trailheads should
be barrier-free to some physically challenged individuals.

This Handbook does not provide a specification for natural surface trails. Such trails, however, can be designed,
constructed, and maintained on a case-by-case basis.

General Trail Corridor Guidelines

Selecting a trail corridor is critical to meeting the goals of the County. Not all corridors are conducive to creating a good
trails experience, and not all corridors can contain a trail that meets the county’s physical standards for a safe and
accessible trail. It is also necessary to balance open space and trail uses along a trail corridor.

• Desirable corridor features: Recreational amenities such as viewpoints, intrinsically pleasant spaces
such as a select grove of trees, and other recreational opportunities should be included in the corridor
wherever possible. The corridor should include scenic, natural, historic, and geologic features as well as

1-14 Trails Design and Management Planning Handbook

 Trail Design Process and Guidelines

create or preserve open space, greenbelt, wildlife habitat, and floodplain values. These features should be
accessed by trails whenever that access does not compromise either the trail or the feature.

• Undesirable corridor features: Negative features include grade crossings of busy highways, utility
corridors that have negative visual impacts and/or an unnatural alignment, corridors adjacent to noisy or
unpleasant sites, and locations with little recreational value. Whenever possible, the trail corridor should avoid
negative features which cannot be overcome or successfully mitigated. If a few negative features are
unavoidable in an otherwise adequate corridor, use all feasible methods in corridor construction to mitigate
and overcome them.

• Preserve, enhance, and use natural corridors wherever possible. The best corridors are those
that have a central theme, a natural and apparent reason for existing. Waterways and drainages are excellent
natural corridors and have inherent value as recreational and greenway resources. Natural corridors,
however, should be used as trail corridors only when this use will not adversely affect the natural state of the
corridor (including wildlife habitat and wildlife access).

• Provide spur trails for access. Wherever possible, increase the accessibility of the trail system by
creating access spurs into neighborhoods, developed areas, business centers, schools, community facilities
which serve large numbers of people, nearby roads, and other trails. These spurs need their own corridors as
well.

• Create possibilities for loops and varied trips. A network of trails allows for many more possibilities
than a single trail. Whenever possible, connect trails, create loops, and create alternate ways to travel
(including loops which are part trail, part quiet roads).

• Where possible and desirable, work to form an Alternate Transportation Network. In an urban
or suburban area, one way that trails can form an alternate transportation system is for trails to run through
open space at right angles to established trafficways in an overlapping intersecting grid. See the illustration in
this part titled “An Alternate Transportation Network.”

Trails should not completely isolate non-motorized from motorized traffic, but rather create separate systems that meet
frequently to allow people to move freely between the two. Grade crossings, underpasses with side spurs that connect to
the road, and roadside trailheads are all connection points. Since trails are to serve as alternate transportation whenever
possible, open space spurs and access to the network should extend into the core of developed areas wherever they can.
A trails network can be built one trail at a time until many places are connected. The concept of the alternate network
should also be used for municipal and regional planning where the open spaces between developed areas form strands in
the trails network.

• Resolve conflicts between the recreation and transportation use of a trail. Conflicts between
the recreation and transportation use of a given trail will occur if a trail corridor chosen primarily for
transportation has little recreational value. First, weigh the magnitude of the conflict - if only part of the trail is
undesirable from the recreation standpoint, perhaps it will be overcome by the recreational quality of the rest
of the trail. Fencing, berms, vegetation screening, or other screening can be used to separate the trail from
the unpleasant feature.

If the conflict is serious, investigate alternate alignments that connect the two destinations in a different,
possibly less direct, way. If no better alignment can be found, make the trail and trail corridor as pleasant to
use as possible using whatever choices, trail improvements, and site repair efforts that are feasible.

• Try to have features about every hundred yards. When we use trails, we tend to look ahead to
the next landscape or trail feature and make that a goal. The greater the number and variety of interesting
features there are, the richer the trail experience becomes. If the trail lacks features for too long, it’s
emotionally draining to use the trail. Features can be just about anything along a trail - a group of trees, a
rock formation, a building, a trail structure such as a bridge or retaining wall, a hill, a curve, an intersection,
etc. In selecting the corridor, identify natural points of interest and connect them where this makes sense. Do
not create contrived features just for the sake of having a feature, it’s better to do without.

1-15 Trails Design and Management Planning Handbook

 Trail Design Process and Guidelines

• Plan the trail and the corridor together. If an open space corridor is to contain a trail, the corridor
and the trail alignment should be selected together before the land is obtained. The trail and its corridor
depend on each other - the trail corridor is chosen partly on how it can contain a trail, and the trail is located
with respect to how it can optimally use the corridor. Selecting the trail alignment requires constant refinement
of corridor width and location based both on available land and on creating a trail that meets alignment
guidelines as well as applicable physical requirements for grades, sightlines, curve radii, clearances, widths,
and construction techniques. If the trail is to be a hard surface multiple use trail, a parallel soft surface
(crusher fines or natural surface) trail should also be provided wherever possible and should also have its
alignment chosen and optimized before land is obtained.

• Check for associated improvements. Each trail and corridor will likely need some special constructed
features such as trailheads, special signs, fencing, bridges, underpasses, intersections, retaining walls,
railings, revegetation, site restoration, special features for particular user groups, drainage issues, and many
others.

Working with Property Lines and Densely Developed Areas

As linear open space, trail alignments should seem dictated by landforms, features, and destinations rather than property
lines and legal boundaries. In reality, however, legal boundaries such as property lines, highway rights-of-way, and utility
corridors may often be constraining factors. If it is necessary to locate a trail under these constraints, try to avoid the worst
cases below and work with the established boundaries in the following ways.

a. Best case is to follow a long-established route or boundary that has become a site feature in and
of itself because of an old fence, trees and vegetation that have grown along the line, etc. The fence, if
present, should have a great deal of weathered character or appear grown into the location. In essence, the
property line has become a natural corridor. Preserve the patina of time in the finished trail by leaving the
established elements as undisturbed as possible. If new gateways have to be put through the old fence, try
to match the fence materials. Try to avoid fencing both sides of the trail. If both sides must be fenced, try to
widen to corridor and vary its width.

b. Second best case is to follow a route between two very different land uses. This will usually be
the boundary line between a developed area and an undeveloped area such as open land, pastures, or
cultivated fields. An alignment along such a boundary line feels somewhat like a natural corridor and this
feeling should be preserved. It may be necessary to install a privacy fence between the trail and the
developed area. Try to avoid fencing both sides and if it is a must try to widen the corridor and vary its width.

c. A middle case is a highway right-of-way next to a road with low to medium traffic density moving at
low to medium speeds. The experience of the user on a trail here depends largely on the aesthetics and
values of the surrounding land, the number of vehicles on the highway, the speed of the highway vehicles, the
number of roads and driveways crossed by the trail, and the purpose of the trail. Highway right-of-ways have
many limitations as trail corridors. A roadside trail becomes more a utility use corridor. When there are many
fast moving vehicles on the road, the vehicles and the uninteresting character of the high-speed right-of-way
will distract the user from any landscaping beside the trail. The trail design should help to psychologically
separate the trail from the road and provide a more enjoyable experience than the road because more detail
can be enjoyed at a leisurely pace. Think of the trail as a way to explore the corridor in ways the road cannot.
Separate the trail from the edge of the road pavement as much as possible. Less sonic and visual impact
from the road will be experienced if the trail is more than 10 feet below the road level. Vertical features along
a trail make an excellent contrast to the flat road. Add an earth berm between the trail and road and plant
native trees and shrubs to help protect the trail from road debris or snow from plows. Try to avoid having the
road drain onto the trail by installing a roadside swale to catch the drainage. Make road crossings as safe as
possible and as few as possible.

d. Second-to-worst case is a subdivision or business/commercial center trail hemmed in by

development and possibly fenced on both sides. This type of trail is more like an alley, and users feel
like the trail doesn’t belong there. Try to soften the edges with appropriate plantings and try to vary the width

1-14 Trails Design and Management Planning Handbook

 Trail Design Process and Guidelines

of the corridor. If the development is in the planning stages, try to set aside a different parcel of open space
to serve as a more inviting corridor. If the trail borders parking lots or driveways, allow room between the trail
and pavement for snow removal. Remember the goal is to provide safe routes for children to travel.

e. Worst case is a trail squeezed between a major highway and a commercial or developed area.
This has little value as open space or recreation, and usually has the negative features of vehicular grade
crossings, limited alignment options, limited sightlines, and urban commotion. Stay as far from the busy
highway as possible and create physical and aesthetic screens between roadways and the trail. The screens
should be as informal as possible; earth, grass, native plants, native uncut stone, and wood are preferred.
Trail intersections should be well marked, have good sightlines, and be predictable for both vehicular and trail
users. Allow space for snow removal and protect users from flying debris. If the development is not yet built,
work with the developers to integrate the trail from the start.

f. Creative solutions can help make a trail appear to follow site features. For instance, if a trail
follows the edge of a property, the trail can move away from the edge when landforms or features warrant or
cross the property line for some distance before recrossing it. It may also be possible to straddle a property
line and move more toward the centers of either or both of the two properties when landforms and features
warrant. In any case, following property lines is preferable to trying to disguise the line with contrived curves
and an obviously contrived alignment.

An Alternate Transportation Network

Paths run at right angles to roads in an overlapping grid. The frequent meeting points between the path system and the
street grid make it easy to move between the two systems. The network is formed one trail at a time until many
connections are made.

1-15 Trails Design and Management Planning Handbook

 Trail Design Process and Guidelines

1-14 Trails Design and Management Planning Handbook

 Trail Design Process and Guidelines

G. Trail Corridor Selection Process

Besides meeting the goals for the trail type, planning the corridor must include the following interrelated steps:

1. Before obtaining land, determine the features and values of the proposed corridor. Form the basic layout
of the trail and optimize its alignment within the proposed corridor. If this is a hard surface multiple use trail,
the location of an adjacent soft surface trail should also be determined and optimized.

2. As a factor in finding the width of the necessary corridor, determine the width of the trail and necessary
side clearances at each point along the corridor (see Sections 2 & 3).

3. On the proposed trail alignment, determine grades, sightlines, curve radii, setbacks, and the applicable
and make sure these are within the limits for the trail type (see Sections 2 & 3). This should be done prior to
obtaining an easement in order to insure that a trail meeting the requirements can be constructed within the
corridor.

4. Obtain the land for the proposed corridor. If the desired corridor cannot be obtained, the above steps
should be repeated for a new proposed corridor.

General Trail and Corridor Design

The overall trail and corridor should evoke a feeling of simple elegance. Through economy of design, trails should be
unpretentious and practical, yet have enough subtle style to avoid being merely utilitarian. Much of this subtle style comes
from interesting sites, excellent design, careful craftsmanship, and consistently quality construction. In a trail corridor,
simple elegance and economy of design can be achieved through the combination of many factors:

• The trail has to fit the site, the users, the purpose, and the budget. One way to help achieve
an appropriate fit (as well as economy of design) is to ensure that everything about the trail be the way it is for
two or more obvious and sound reasons. Nothing is overstated, superfluous, gratuitous, or contrived; no
attempt is made to make something into something it’s not; everything is appropriate. Embellishment and
decoration have a place in achieving an appropriate fit, but these need to be completely consistent with the
motifs of the rest of the trail and corridor in order to work (and it’s best if they serve structural reasons as
well). One should never be able to ask, “Why is this like this?” and not have at least two obvious and sound
answers.

• The land is respected and appreciated. Through subtle design, the unique features of a site or of the
trail itself become the focus of users’ attention. Distant site features are made accessible without
overstatement or contrivance. Because the design brings out the best in the site and because so many
natural and man-made features are both available and appropriate, the user has a quality experience each
time.

• The trail and corridor are free from design contradictions. The overall design of each corridor is
consistent. All work is done to the same level of quality. Nothing should require frequent or extensive
maintenance; structures should be sturdy, look grounded, and not attempt to be inappropriately fancy, plants
and vegetation are appropriate and sustainable.

• Solutions to specific problems are elegant in that they solve all aspects of the problem in the
simplest way. The hard part here is to recognize all the aspects of a problem - trail and corridor problems
usually have safety, legal, aesthetic, ecological, social, behavioral, physical, practical, procedural, and
monetary components, which must all, be addressed. Failure to address significant aspects of the problem
could lead to inappropriate solutions that may, in turn, cause other problems.

• The trail doesn’t attempt to deny any aspect of its presence. Some of the more utilitarian aspects
of trails are handled openly, simply, and carefully in order to reveal more of what is actually occurring on a
site. For example, path drainage is provided where needed through an open system of swales, ditches, and

1-15 Trails Design and Management Planning Handbook

 Trail Design Process and Guidelines

culverts that are fully and openly integrated into the feel and structure of the trail.

• The trail should seem as if it belongs there as it fluidly seeks a course optimized between
“least resistance” and “most interesting”. The alignment of the trail should appear to be driven by the
landforms and obvious features of the site rather than, for example, property lines and non-apparent
restrictions.

• The trail is unpredictable enough to be interesting, but predictable enough to avoid unpleasant
surprises. The alignment of the path should take full advantage of the features of the site (as long as the
features are not compromised by the path), but in such a way that users are pleasantly introduced to features.
In the physical path itself, the guidelines on trail widths, grades, curves, sightlines, and the like are designed
to support a limited unpredictability (see alignment discussions for the trail type in Sections 2 & 3).

• For all trails, a good trail is one that makes us feel more alive. Whether a trail is for
transportation or recreation, it should be enjoyable to use and, as mentioned above, create a fresh experience
each time we use it. It fulfills or surpasses our expectations. It makes us feel so good about it that once built,
we gladly welcome its continued maintenance.

• Be consistent in design yet have enough spontaneity to avoid the master-planned feel. The trail
should take its clues from the users and site first and from this Handbook second. The users and the site
should generate the trail within the confines of these specifications. These specifications can be extended,
instead of being a straitjacket, they are intended to guide us in consistent quality design and construction.

• Keep within the character of the County of Simcoe. Signs, trailhead design, and other path features
are designed to give trails and paths a rustic, comfortable, and unpretentious feeling. The desired effect is a
contemporary natural feel, which is simple, honest, practical, sturdy, and understated rather than touristy,
decorative, flimsy, or overdone. Materials and details are specified in Sections 2 & 3.

• Use design keywords for County Trails. In order to create a more coherent feeling among numerous
trails designed by different parties, it’s helpful to have a set of keywords which all trail designs should reflect.
While this is subjective, so are all recreational designs. Strive to design trails and paths to feel and be:

Appropriate (fitting)
Simple
Comfortable
Safe
Practical
Unpretentious
In harmony with the landscape
Free from design contradictions
Fun

Relationship between Trail and Site

Any site both limits and defines the possibilities of the trail and trail corridor, and a trail can limit or maximize the user’s
experience in the site. Consistent with the goals of the County, the user’s experience is to be maximized whenever
possible - as long as the site is not compromised. In accordance with economy of design, following are some principles of
site planning and techniques to maximize the user’s experience of a site:

• The trail should pass through a variety of ecosystems with a variety of trailside features.
Trails are more fun to use and provide more experiences if they connect widely contrasting locations in a
short distance. The trail should make frequent transitions from one ecosystem or type of area to another.
Some examples:

— Changes in ecosystem: meadow to forest to riparian to boulder-strewn area to stream

1-14 Trails Design and Management Planning Handbook

 Trail Design Process and Guidelines

crossing.
— Changes in area: developed area to rural area, man-made to natural.
— Changes in views: from hilltop to valley, from view area to forest, expansive to
introspective.

• Identify site features and mitigate potential site hazards. Site features and hazards which must
be addressed in any land use proposal include:

Geologic Hazards Wildfire Hazard

Soils Wildlife Habitat
Debris Flows Floodplain
Rock Fall Scenic Overlay
Slopes Historic and Archaeological Resources
Stability of water’s edge Areas around Key Facilities

Geologic and wildfire hazards should be evaluated as to the dangers to users and to the physical structure of the trail and
associated improvements. Wildlife habitat may or may not be a suitable location for a trail, and critical wildlife habitat
should be avoided by trails in order to protect wildlife. Floodplains may carry restrictions on how much the trail can alter
the flow of water and will certainly affect design, planning, and construction. Scenic resources are features that should be
accessed or viewed from trails. Historic and archeological resources need to be handled on a case-by-case basis. Some
sites can be excellent educational resources and others are best avoided by the trail in order to preserve them (and
perhaps protect public safety). Areas around key facilities can be used or avoided depending on the facility.

• Consider and preserve the fragile or easily disturbed features of the site. Could the trail
alignment disturb sensitive environments such as wetlands, migration routes, and critical wildlife habitat? Are
there any endangered plants or animals, which might be disturbed by the trail or its users? For sites within
the County’s direct control, the County of Simcoe is responsible for providing for the preservation of the site
and for management of use if usage can be accommodated. Before a trail is approved, the County should
have an ecologist check the route for rare or endangered plant species, wetlands, migration routes, critical
wildlife habitat, and possible archaeological sites. If any such features could be disturbed by the trail, either
realign the trail or align and build in such a way as to minimize the disturbance. Get expert advice on how
much disturbance is “minimal” and acceptable on a case-by-case basis. The preservation of natural resource
values takes precedence over other design factors.

• Minimize impacts to adjacent landowners. The trail should have a minimal impact on adjacent
landowners. The physical structure of the trail should not increase erosion, create site instability, change
essential drainage patterns, or affect adjacent land in other structural ways. Make every reasonable effort to
minimize or eliminate the impacts of trespassing, litter, noise, fire hazard, livestock harassment, and other
inappropriate behaviors on neighboring landowners.

• Preserve the privacy of neighbors along the trail corridor. Align away from houses whenever
possible. If necessary, use or add landscaping or fencing to create screens.

• Minimize impacts on agricultural operations. If the trail passes through an agricultural parcel, it should
have a minimal adverse effect on that parcel. In particular, the alignment of the trail should not remove more
than the trail corridor from agricultural usage, nor should it alter agricultural operations to the extent that the
viability of the operation is impacted. Because an agricultural use adjacent to the trail corridor in essence
extends the open space value of the corridor, the corridor can be narrower in agricultural parcels than would
be desirable in more developed areas.

• Site repair can be used if alignment options are limited. Site repair is putting the trail in a disturbed
area, and then extensively restoring the area with landscaping. This is to be used only as a last resort.
Beware of aligning the trail next to eyesores that are beyond the Town’s control.

• Obtain a trail corridor of adequate width. It takes room beyond the width of the trail for drainage

1-15 Trails Design and Management Planning Handbook

 Trail Design Process and Guidelines

control, cuts and fills, shoulders, and signs. The width of the corridor can (and should) vary along its length
according to construction techniques and the addition of adjacent open space features to the corridor. A
construction easement may also be needed to get additional width for construction.

• Lay out the trail(s) before acquiring land. Considering the concepts above (and before committing to
any land acquisitions or easements), lay out the trail using the techniques in Sections 2 & 3. Then, at a
minimum, determine the corridor widths required based on the corridor features and necessary trail
construction techniques.

Safety and Human Aspects

Design safety into trails. Trails should be safe for the expected users within feasible limits. Avoid routing trails through
dangerous sites, provide long sightlines and avoid blind curves on bike trails, provide railings on a vertical drop off
exceeding 30” on crusher fines and multiple use trails, and provide information at trailheads on how to avoid user
conflicts. See the restrictions and guidelines in Sections 2 & 3.

Take the type and amount of usage into account. Trails should have sufficient width to handle the expected use both
now and in the future. The structure of the trail should also accommodate the expected users. For example, a country
natural surface trail used by both hikers and mountain bikes must both be safe for all users and withstand the physical use
from all users.

Make trailheads safe and visible gateways to the trail system. Each trailhead is an entrance to the system and
helps set the tone for the system. Trailheads should be safe and well signed for users, as well as visible so that users
don’t have to look hard to find them.

Plan to avoid or minimize vehicular conflicts. Avoid crossing driveways, streets, roads, and highways whenever
possible. Bridges or underpasses are preferable to on-grade crossings of highways. Crossings of less-traveled roads and
streets must be well marked and have good sightlines so that trail users and road users can see each other. If a grade
crossing is necessary, the safest crossings are usually at mid-block.

Take seasons into account. If the trail is to have specific seasonal uses, consider access and maintenance in the
different seasons. For example, trails used for cross-country skiing should be aligned to avoid south facing trail surfaces,
and users should expect to deal with late melting snow in the spring. Snow removal, snow storage, or trail grooming may
need to be planned into the trail corridor. Wildlife closures in specific seasons may also be necessary and, if so,
management and enforcement of the closure need to be considered in advance.

Construction

Before approval, determine who will build the trail. Who will build the trail determines, to some degree, what can be
built. County trails must be built to high quality standards (see Sections 2 & 3).

Before approval, identify the applicable construction features. In the initial layout of the trail, identify all of the
features in Sections 2 & 3, which are used in this trail (trailheads, signs, fencing, bridges, underpasses, intersections,
retaining walls, railings, revegetation, site restoration, special features for particular user groups, drainage issues, and the
like). It isn’t necessary to design these features in detail, but it should be known, for example, how many drainage
crossings there are and how they should be built, where and approximately how long and high retaining walls should be,
and the basic character of other major structures. More initial planning - including initial feasibility studies - should be
given to major, unusual, expensive, or nonstandard items.

Consider the construction window for the trail. Given snow, snowmelt, wildlife zones, revegetation requirements,
and other site conditions, determine what times of the year the trail could be constructed.

Consider the feasibility of construction. Are any parts of the trail difficult to build because of a fragile or difficult site,
access problems, inadequate or limited clearance for construction equipment, buried or overhead utilities, and similar

1-14 Trails Design and Management Planning Handbook

 Trail Design Process and Guidelines

problems? If so, how can these parts of the trail be built?

Consider a construction easement. For narrow trail corridors and corridors with limited access, a short-term
construction easement wider than the final trail easement may be necessary. Guidelines for construction easements are
given in Sections 2 & 3.

Do only quality construction. Anything worth building is worth building well. Rather than using inferior materials or
designing and building just enough to get by for a decade or two, trails should be built to high quality standards in materi-
als, techniques, and workmanship. The specifications in Sections 2 & 3 exist partly to set those standards.

Design and construct trails for a maximum lifespan. In sites such as the backcountry, trails cannot be replaced. As
community resources like highways, there is no reason why trails should not last indefinitely. Given regular and scheduled
maintenance as described in Sections 2 & 3, trail surfaces should not need to be extensively rebuilt or replaced before the
maximum lifespan of the surface material. Concrete trails should be formed such that no large-scale replacements of
concrete are needed for at least 50 years. Asphalt trails should have their original surface last at least 20 years (seal
coating and other major maintenance will be required every 3 to 5 years). Crusher fines and natural surface trails, when
properly designed and constructed, should never have to be extensively rebuilt or relocated. See Sections 2 & 3 for
additional lifespan and materials specifications.

Conduct onsite inspections of construction in progress. A representative of the County should conduct periodic
onsite inspections of work in progress. In addition, onsite inspections are necessary after the trail alignment has been set
but before construction begins, and at completion of all work.

Trail closures should not occur, rather proper planning is required. Trails shall not be closed due to other types of
construction (e.g., residential/industrial development, creek/road realignment). If a closure is mandatory, a detour or
alternate route, following the specifications in Sections 2 & 3, should be designed into the construction plan and the costs
of an alternate route will be the responsibility of the developer.

Trail Construction tips. Construction crews will be following your trail that has been laid out with ribbon or marking
paint. Make sure the trail is highly visible with markers every 20m minimum. When woodlots are extremely thick with
undergrowth you will need to mark the trail more frequently. Typically the first stage of construction is to clear the trail
swath. If a trail width has been determined to be 3 m then the trail swath should be 4 m to allow for a maintenance swath
on each side of the trail. Most clearing is done by chainsaw and brush clearing saw for the undergrowth however,
mechanized heavy equipment cutters are available to do this task. Once the trail has been cleared completely of brush
and trees then the task of grubbing out the roots, stumps and organic layer begins. Probably the most versatile machine
do to its size, strength and relatively inexpensive operating cost would be the mini- excavator. The mini- excavator is very
capable of removing tree stumps up to 8” in diameter. Excavators with the opposable thumb are recommended for picking
up rocks and stumps to be side cast or removed from the trail right-of way.

1-15 Trails Design and Management Planning Handbook

 Trail Design Process and Guidelines

Example of mini-excavator removing tree stump from trail.

Most organic material is side-casted into the bush beside the trail and made to blend into the exsisting grade. The only
drawback with the min-excavator is you cannot grade well with the front blade nor can you move any amount of material
any distance with this machinery. Also the min-ex has limited strength for large rocks and stumps. For this task a larger
backhoe is required. Backhoes are not the best machine for trail clearing due to the size and access required. Often the
rear boom is in the way in tight spaces which can result in the damage of trees beside the trail. In addition although the
backhoe is equipped with a front bucket for moving material and or rough grading the trail, it is difficult to fine tune a grade
with this type of machine. There are several smaller models of backhoes which are ideal for trail work similar to the one
shown below. The smaller the machine however, the less power you have. Rubber tire machines also have a tendency to
become stuck in wet areas as apposed to track machines.

1-14 Trails Design and Management Planning Handbook

 Trail Design Process and Guidelines

A smaller backhoe is versatile and well adapted for trail work.

Once a trail has been grubbed, rough graded and a geotextile laid out there are several methods of finishing the trail.
Depending on the required trail surface like woodchips, for walking trails, crushed fines for multi-use trails, asphalt or
concrete probably one of the best machine for fine grading and applying the final trail surface (or in the case of asphalt or
concrete the sub-base) is the track skidsteer. The skidsteer can move material quickly to the work site, grade and
compact material.

1-15 Trails Design and Management Planning Handbook

 Trail Design Process and Guidelines

A Track Skidsteer is one of the most valued pieces of trail equipment for most trail construction

Once the final trail surface has been added with the exception of woodchips the surface should be compacted with either
a plate tamper or vibrating roller to the required thickness of material. If your trail runs through a wet area then do not use
the vibrating roller as it has a tendency to bring water from below to the surface of your trail. Plate packers work much
better in wet areas an on shorter trails.

Maintenance

Trails, as a community resource like highways, should last indefinitely.

Before approval, determine maintenance responsibility and tasks. Who will maintain the trail, in which manner, and
how often, should be determined before the trail is approved?

Design trails to minimize maintenance. Plan ahead to anticipate potential problems and minimize them through
appropriate design and quality construction. Proposed high-maintenance trails should be reevaluated, redesigned, or
realigned to minimize maintenance. The guidelines in Sections 2 & 3 will help generate minimal maintenance trails.

Estimate future maintenance needs. Given a good trail design, quality construction, a clear understanding of the site,
and an understanding of users and usage, it’s possible to estimate maintenance needs long into the future. To understand
future maintenance needs up front, project expected maintenance at 4-6 months, 1 year, 5 years, and 20 years after trail
completion.

Schedule major design and maintenance reviews during the first year. To spot and possibly correct design and
construction deficiencies, a major design and construction review should be conducted onsite at about 4-6 months and
one year after completion. Representatives from the County, the trail contractors, and the groups responsible for
maintenance and trail management should be present; and representatives from other involved groups (user groups, etc.)
should be invited if applicable. Public comments on the trail should also be reviewed at these times. Any problems
uncovered by these reviews should be corrected if feasible. The findings of the review are to be retained along with the
other records on the trail.

1-14 Trails Design and Management Planning Handbook

 Trail Design Process and Guidelines

Inspect all trails at least once a month, and busy trails once every week throughout the usage season. Detect
and fix problems while they’re small. Nearly every major problem on a trail was at one time a small problem that went
uncorrected. When problems do arise, fix them while they are still small. Repair vandalism immediately. If new unplanned
and unofficial social trails appear from shortcuts or other use, it may be that the public is voting with their feet about where
a trail should be. Before closing a social trail, find out why the trail is occurring and perhaps legitimize the use on the
current social trail or on a well designed and constructed alternative.

Stewardship
Stewardship practices seek to preserve and enhance the ecological, scenic, recreational, and cultural values of the open
space and trails acquired by the Trails program.

• Determine jurisdiction. Should the trail fall under County jurisdiction and enforcement of any trails program rules? If
so, should any special rules or exceptions apply to this trail? If not, who will have jurisdiction, and what rules will
apply?

• Consider possible trail management issues and determine a trail management plan. Encourage and, where
appropriate, seek the participation of the property seller, nearby property owners, local jurisdictions, and the general
public in the preparation of a long-term management plan for the trail and trail corridor. The management plan is to be
a site-specific, balanced stewardship approach to the preservation, improvement, and use of:

— Ecologically sensitive land and water -resources

— Wildlife resources
— Visual resources
— Cultural resources
— Recreational resources
— Agricultural uses

For the purpose of monitoring, the potential impacts of the plan’s implementation on adjoining private property,
adjoining public lands, and the affected community should be identified in the management plan. The plan must also
address public safety issues, public education about the property, long-term maintenance budgeting, and manage-
ment accountability. In addition, specific management issues can include inappropriate usage, user group conflicts,
overuse, trespassing, litter, noise, fire hazard, livestock harassment, dogs, camping, hunting, fishing, access, liability,
working with other agencies, and many others. Methods of enforcing the rules must be determined.

Methods for working with all such applicable issues should be determined in advance and formulated as a working
management plan which is refined with time and experience.

• Identify difficult management issues and determine management methods before approval. If a management
issue is likely to be a serious problem or an area of serious dispute, the issue should be closely examined and
possible management methods should be determined before approval. If a dispute is the problem, consider bringing
representatives of the disputing parties together (as representatives of their respective groups if possible) in an
attempt to form a design/construction/management plan that will satisfy both the disputing parties and the Town.

• Determine public use rules and enforcement. Determine rules for public use for each trail on a case-by-case
basis. Post the rules at trailheads and in other appropriate places and ways (trail maps, brochures, etc.). Any unusual
or site-specific rules should be emphasized in the postings (such as snowmobile access). Methods of enforcing the
rules must be determined.

• Determine who has trail management responsibilities. Determine who is to be responsible for implementation of
the management plan and how they are to be accountable. Are there potential partners, such as organized groups, or
other governmental agencies that can assist in the management of the trail? Can they be authorized and empowered
to handle the issues to the satisfaction of the County? If a suitable manager cannot be found, the trail should not be
approved under the grounds of inability to effectively manage the trail.

1-15 Trails Design and Management Planning Handbook

 Trail Design Process and Guidelines

• Close trails to protect wildlife as needed. The County has the responsibility to close any trail in its jurisdiction,
regardless of the trail’s purpose, type, or location, in order to protect wildlife when necessary. Policies for determining
and managing closures should be determined in advance. The public should be notified of closures at the trailheads
and at the points of closure, and the notification must include the dates and reasons for the closure. Other notification
should be considered and used as appropriate (press releases, temporary road signs, advance notifications on
trailhead bulletin boards, etc.). Depending on the site and users, permanent lockable gates and fences across the trail
corridor may be desirable to enforce the closure.

• Consider promotion of the trail. As public facilities, trails should be promoted in appropriate ways. Each new trail
should have a publicized onsite dedication and the community press should be invited to run stories describing the
new trail.

• Collect feedback from trail users and others. A designated party should retain public comments concerning a
trail or the impacts of a trail. Comments should also be solicited from the public on occasion through trailhead
surveys, comment cards, and other appropriate means. These comments should be periodically reviewed to identify
management issues, successes, failures, possible improvements, and user satisfaction. The results should be used
as a learning tool for current and future trails.

1-14 Trails Design and Management Planning Handbook