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Guide to Sustainable Mountain Trails

Trail Assessment, Planning& Design Sketchbook

2007 Edition


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Table of Contents

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Table of Contents3History of the Sketchbook 4, Sketchbook Purpose & Target Audiences5

Foundations of Mountain Trail Sustainability

The Olmsted Report 8, Policies of the American Society of Landscape Architects 10, Land Stewardship& Inspiration 14, Stewardship Partnerships & Training 15, Trail Project Management 17, Lessons Learned

Technique 18, Trail Project Cycle Tool 19

Fundamentals of Mountain Trail SustainabilityMountain Trail Sustainability 22, Interdisciplinary Trail Team 22, Protection of Natural & Cultural

Resources 22, Optimum Prevailing Cross Slope Ranges & Trail Profile Grades 23, Trail SustainabilityAssessment 25, Trail Sustainability Assessment Tools 28, Mountain Trail Planning33, Climate37, Boundary

Constraints,37, Easements & Off-Site Connections37, Geographic Context38, Colorado Ecosystems39,Rare Species & Habitats48, Physical Planning Tools 49, Optimum Soils for Sustainability 50, DesignSolutions Hierarchy51, Trail Profile Calculations53, Choosing by Advantages54, Stakeholder Analysis54,

Example Planning Outputs55 61, Basic Design 63, Characteristic Landscape Qualities65, DesignPrinciples 66, Design Variables 67, New Trail Design 69, Alignment Design Technique 72, Example New

Trail Design Outputs 74 80, Restoration Planning 83, Ecological Restoration 86, Why Restoration? 87,Funding Strategy 87, Goals 87, Restoration Planning Tools & Techniques 88, Prioritizing Restoration

Treatments 88, Volunteerism & Restoration Projects 89, Restoration Implementation 89, 4-Step RestorationPlanning Strategies 90, Mountain Trail Bridges 95, Implementation Techniques & Options 101, Example

Implementation Options 102 118

Ensuring Mountain Trail SustainabilityTrail Maintenance Design 127, Trail Rehabilitation Design 128, Trail Armor Design 130, Trail Management

Options 133

Patience ExamplesThe Challenge ... is to be Patient 136, Rocky Mountain National Park 137, Hayden Green Mountain Regional

Park, Lakewood, Colorado 138, Lory State Park, Colorado 139, Colorado Fourteeners Initiative 140,Continental Divide National Scenic Trail 141, Roxborough State Park, Colorado 142

Room to GrowPitfalls to Avoid 144, Lessons Learned 145, More Tools 148

The Trail AheadExecutive Order 12906 154, Digital Technology 154, New Tools & Techniques 154, Sample Geographic

Information Systems Outputs 155, Towards a Mountain Trail Sustainability Ethic 156

CreditsCo-Authors 158, Contributors 159

Sketchbook at a Glance

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21

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135

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153

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Sketchbook Purpose & Target Audiences

The purpose of the Sketchbook is to inspire excellence in theassessment, planning, design, implementation and communicationof sustainable mountain trail projects by presenting the whys and

hows of successful projects in simplified form. Key to projectsuccess is customizing scientific and landscape architecturalsustainability criteria to the project at hand across the trail projectcycle as well as being patient during implementation.

The Sketchbook displays many examples of successful tools andtechniques which will aid interdisciplinary trail teams in streamliningdelivery of economical sustainable mountain trail projects while

minimizing impact to natural and cultural resources and theirintrinsic values.

The Sketchbookis organized intoFoundations of Mountain Trail SustainabilityFundamentals of Mountain Trail SustainabilityEnsuring Mountain Trail SustainabilityPatience Examples

Room to GrowThe Trail Ahead

Key to successful projects includeUtilizing a Project Management FrameworkUnderstanding the Trail Project CycleAdopting a Lessons LearnedtechniquePitfalls to Avoid

The following round out a sustainable trails programStewardship Partnerships & TrainingBasic Design

More Tools

Target Audiences

The primary target audience of the Sketchbookis the nonprofit conservation

community who is poised to partner with and support land managementagencies with trail projects and their stewardship goals and initiatives.

Secondary target audiences of the Sketchbook include students, landmanagement agency staff, young professionals, youth corps leaders, technicaland non-technical trail advocates, professional associations and organizations,decision makers, as well as donors and granting organizations.

A combination of classroom and field

activities, lessons and exercises ensurethat trainees receive the balance theyneed to solve challenging on-the-ground trail design problems.

Above: Design assistants in training forthe Colorado Fourteeners Initiative,summer 2006.

Left: Project Thailand students atUniversity of Denver, November 2006.


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Foundations

The variety of naturaland cultural qualities oflandscapes as well as theinspiration we draw from

them is as infinite as the stars.A foundational component ofmountain trail sustainability

is to that care must be takenwithin established limits soas not to impact the naturaland cultural resource values

of protected landscapes whilestill providing appropriate

recreational settings so thattrail users are inspired and

refreshed from a day on thetrail.


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Foundations of Mountain Trail Sustainability

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Opposite page. Yosemite Valley inYosemite National Park has beenthe source of inspiration to thepreservation, conservation andrecreation communities for manyyears. Left, Frederick Law Olmsted.

No less important to citizens of our country today, are all open spacelands possessing unique visual resource values, wetlands, habitat fornative or rare plants and wildlife, and opportunities for passive recreationand solitude.

Not all Americans are able to visit the crown jewels of our National

Park system. State governments, cities, counties, local governmentsand special districts all across the country provide conservation arealands for their citizens to enjoy. A mature understanding of the intrinsicresource values of a landscape, the reasons people visit and recreateupon public lands, as well as a mature mountain trails sustainabilityethic are required to ensure that wise decisions are made regarding thesafe access to-, enjoyment of-, and stewardship of- our nations publiclands.

As much as our naturaland cultural resourcesinspire us, so too,should our trailsideimprovements, so as to

not detract from theirsettings or the reasonswhy land was set aside forenjoyment.


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ASLA National Parks Policy, R 2001

The American Society of Landscape Architects believes thatNational Parks should preserve ecological processes andbiological diversity, provide for re-creation of mind and

body, serve as models of environmental quality and protectthe significant natural and cultural heritage of the people.National Parks serve as outdoor classrooms for children,learning centers for adults, environmental barometers,repositories for the natural and cultural wealth of a nation,and are great reservoirs for scientific inquiry and focal

points for adjacent economic development. The creation,expansion and professional management of a National

Park System is critical to the well being of the populationsand resources of this nation.

ASLA Public Lands and Forests Policy, R 2001

The American Society of Landscape Architects believes thatpublic lands should be retained, expanded and administeredin a manner promoting multiple use while recognizingspecial issues inherent in wildlands and other sensitiveenvironments. Stewardship of the public trust requirescareful assessment to determine uses that are consistentwith long-term sustainability. Managers are encouragedto render appropriate land use decisions which sustainnatural systems, utilize best management practices forthe development of extractive resources, and consolidate

private lands with public lands to better protect habitat and/ or increase aesthetic and recreational opportunities. Theestablishment of national monuments to set aside significantnatural resources that lie within these lands is encouraged.

Management and acquisition decisions should be made witheffective public participation and broad public support.


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ASLA Visual Resources Policy, R 2001

The American Society of Landscape Architects believesthat the character and condition of the nations visualenvironment is as important as that of the nations natural,

historic and cultural resources. The visual landscape, bothon private and public lands in rural and urban areas,reflects our national attitudes toward caring for theearth. It is a record visible to all, written on the face of theland, revealing our successes and failures in meeting ourstewardship responsibilities. Every city, region and ruralarea in the nation should have a visual environment thatshows respect for the landscape. Proper management of

the visual environment can only be realized if there is anenlightened public and willing and committed governmentagencies.

ASLA Water Quality and Conservation Policy, R 2001

The American Society of Landscape Architects urges theeffi cient use of available water supplies, equitable allocationof water resources, elimination of all forms of water

pollution and land use that conserves and protects waterresources and related ecosystems. The Society urges multi-

functional integration of water resource facilities withnatural ecosystems and human communities.

ASLA Invasive Species Policy, 2003

The American Society of Landscape Architects recognizes

that non-native invasive species are adversely impactingecological functions and natural systems worldwide.These invasive species include plants, animals, and insectsthat naturalize and disrupt native ecosystems. Landscapearchitects are encouraged to use responsible design practicesthat sustain the local, regional ecosystem without introducingnon-native invasive plant species.

Brea arvense,Credit: Al Schneider


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Stewardship Partnerships & Training.Providing agency staff and volunteer

training opportunities streamlines thedelivery of sustainable trail projects

while increasing achievement of landmanagement agency stewardship goals.


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Customizing tools and techniquesthat apply to most projects, most ofthe time will increase achievementof sustainability on mountain trail

projects.

Tools & Techniques

Typical Tools & TechniquesLessons Learned TechniqueTrail Project Cycle Tool

Outputs

Typical Summary PackageOutputsDraft for Review; Final

Inputs

Typical InputsFoundation Documents

Typical Inputs

Foundation DocumentsStakeholder AnalysisPopular Literature (MoreTools)Aerial Photos, AnnotatedAerial Photos

Maps, Annotated MapsData BasesPitfalls to Avoid / LessonsLearned

Foundation DocumentsOrganic Act / LegislationAgency Mission /Management Policies &Guidelines / Related PlansLocal / State / Federal

Environmental Regulations

Typical Tools &

TechniquesAssemble InterdisciplinaryTrail TeamPopular Trail Literature &Internet Search & More ToolsResearch / Science

Field Work, i.e.: Field Notes,Design Notes, ThumbnailSketchesDrawings, Examples, PhotoCollages, PhotomontagesGPS, GIS, Analytical

TechniquesEstimating ToolsChoosing by AdvantagesRating ProcessStakeholder AnalysisCharette TechniquesManagement Team Review

Compliance Review

Typical Summary

Package OutputsPurpose / Goals / WrittenSummaryPlans SetThumbnail Sketches /DrawingsStakeholder SummaryPhotographs, CollagesLessons LearnedSummaryTrail ManagementTechniques

Actions SequencesChecklists

Trail Project Management


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Lessons Learned Technique

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PMI encourages the application of a lessons learned technique toactivities throughout the project cycle. Outputs from each projectprocess areas are typically inputs to other project process areas. Toolsand techniques are applied to project situations to determine the bestcourse of action. Lessons learned from each process can be utilized asinputs in subsequent processes, either with a positive connotation, i.e.:

this worked, do it again; or a negative connotation, i.e.: this didnt work,dont do this again, try another tool or technique.

Project Closeout in the PMI PMBOK Guide to Project Management, 3rdEdition specifically addresses lessons learned as part of the closeoutprocess to be incorporated into the project archive files, and to be usedas an input into subsequent project process areas or projects.

Short of having an archive of existing hard-copy project data,interdisciplinary trail teams can review similar existing projects in thearea, such as roadway projects or other development projects. As anexample, if cut slopes on a road project are not healing quickly in anarea proximate to your project with similar soil types, you can deducethat backslopes on your trail project will also not heal quickly. Overallattention to lessons learned from other trail projects will ensure thatyour projects continue to approach higher percentages of success and

sustainability.

Project Planning Process Areas

The Project Management Institute (PMI) recognizes 5 processareas where interrelated project activities task place. PMI does

not advocate a linear project process, but rather a process basedupon inter-relationships between the project process groups

inputs, tools and techniques and outputs.

Shown is the Project Planningprocess area schematic as definedby PMI. Outputs from Project Initiationwould be inputs to

Project Planning, and outputs from Project Planningare inputs toProject Execution, Project Controland Project Closeout.

Project Initiation

Project Planning

Project Execution

Project Control

Project Closeout

Tools &Techniques

Outputs

LessonsLearn

ed

Project Planning

Inputs


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Trail Project Cycle Tool

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Page # 15Stewardship

Partnerships &Training

Start here!

Page # 144Pitfalls to Avoid

Page # 101Implementation

Techniques &Options

Page # 95Mountain Trail

Bridges

Page # 83Restoration

Planning

Page # 69New Trail

Design

Page # 63Basic Design

Partnerships with

conservationnonprofit agencies

are required,now more thanever, to ensure

continued success ofrecreational trails on

public lands.

All cogs in the trailproject cycle would

benefit from suchsupport!

Page # 145Lessons Learned Page # 125

Maintenance,Rehabilitation &

Armor Design

Page # 133Trail Management

Options

Page # 148More Tools

Page # 33Mountain Trail

Planning

Page # 25Trail Sustainability

Assessment


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Appropriate Settings for Recreation & Inspiration

Sustainable mountain trails provide the appropriate setting fornon-impacting contemplative recreational activities, provide

the setting for the establishment, restoration or strengtheningof relationships, provide the opportunity for lessons aboutresource stewardship and protection of our natural andcultural resource heritage, and inspire the human spirit.

Who could not delight in these environments orbe awed by these naturally occurring scenes?Whose relationships could not benefit from timespent having a sack lunch on a mountain trail?

In one of the best equipped classrooms, whocould not learn about alpine environments ortraditional use of the land?Who could not be inspired and refreshed by theinfinite variety of nature and give pause to theirrestless souls?

Although hard work and significant investment of time and

materials may be required, it is possible to implement trails thatdo not impact resource values. Please join us in our journeytowards improved protection of natural and cultural resourcesand increased visitor satisfaction and safety!

Inspiration. These photographs convey the trail traditionestablished by trail crews at Rocky Mountain National

Park, Colorado. As evidenced by the preservation of naturalscenes, combined with minimum impact to natural and

cultural resources through development within narrowlimits, these trail examples are an inspiration to all parkvisitors!

F d t l f M t i T il S t i bilit


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Fundamentals of Mountain Trail Sustainability


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Opportunities forequestrian activities aboundon public lands. Largerclearing zones and morestable treads are required toprevent resource impacts.

Natural areas are the setting for manyactivities, including weddings.

Mountain bicycle use ofpublic lands is increasing,especially near urbanareas. Comprehensivestrategies need tobe developed whichaccommodate this use.

Trails that are planned,designed and implementedaccording to mountainbicycle criteria can besustainable and non-impacting to natural andcultural resource valueswhile also providing visitor

satisfaction.

Happy hikers on GreenRanch, Golden Gate CanyonState Park. Discovery of alandscapes intrinsic resourcevalues is a source of long-

lasting memories, as withthis scout troop on their first5-mile hike.

Mountain goats from theMount Evans herd are a

common source of interestfor hikers on popular Greys

and Torreys Peaks, both

14,000-foot-plus (14er)peaks west of Denver,Colorado.

Long Distance

Hiking. Ournations long

distance trails areseeing ever more

use, i.e.: theseyoung hikers onthe Appalachian

Trail.

Trail Sustainability AssessmentTrail Sustainability Assessment


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Trail Sustainability AssessmentTrail Sustainability Assessment

Mainten

ance

Rehabilitatio

n

Armor

Restoration

NewTrailDesign

Planning


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Sustainability Criteria. Sustainabilityassessment techniques must be customizedto specific physical sustainability criteria aswell as the anticipated user type, volumeof use and frequency of use with anunderstanding of the recreational reasonsthat trail users visit public lands.

Shoulder season uses along Coloradosfront range needs to be accounted for, asover-snow hiking is common and affectstrail sustainability.


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Trail Sustainability Assessment Tools


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Just one afternoonthunderstorm producedthis damage to the (old)

Mule Deer Trail atGolden Gate Canyon

State Park, Colorado, in2002.

Recreation Accessibility Potential Rating Tool

High Three or four season use 0-20% cross slope grades, gentle profile grades

(< 5% average) Complementary trailhead facilitiesMedium Two season use 0-20% cross slope grades, gentle profile grades (< 5% average) Complementary trailhead facilitiesLow Single season use Steeper than 20% cross slope grades

Moderate profile grades (> 5%) Non-complementary trailhead facilities

Conducting an assessment particular to natural surface trail sustainabilityfor your project area will help agency managers put perspective on theirtrail program needs.

Focused on fulfilling a need to communicate natural surface mountaintrail sustainability issues, the tools used in Lakewood City Regional Parks(Hayden Green Mountain Regional Park and Bear Creek Lake RegionalPark) have proven successful in helping portray individual trail corridorsustainability as well as area-wide sustainability. It is another tool thatcan be used by interdisciplinary trail teams to communicate issues ofsustainability. Just two people can assess from seven to ten miles per dayusing this method.

Trail sustainability assessment is a two-step process: 1) Trail CorridorSustainability Questionnaire Rating Tool, and 2) Trail Surface SustainabilityRating Tool. Trail corridors rated as sustainable can be assessed fortrail surface sustainability. Trail corridors not rated as sustainable willeventually be abandoned and restored to natural conditions through thenew trail design or restoration planning processes. See boxes on page29.

Conducting trail sustainability assessments of an individual trail or anarea-wide system may help support professional efforts to improve trailsustainability. They will help you quantify your needs for presentation toagency decision makers or funding or grant organizations, as well as toengage a nonprofit agency or individual volunteers interest.

Trail corridors that start at appropriate origins, utilize appropriate

corridor and intermediary control points, have appropriate profilegrades located on appropriate prevailing cross slopes, and end atappropriate destinations have the most opportunity to be sustainablewhile economizing investment of time and materials over the life cycleof the project.

Trail Sustainability Assessment Tools


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Trail Sustainability Assessment Annotated Plan


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ScenicView

VC

CG

10

10a

1

5

4

3

2

Waterfall

My Conservation Area

ScenicView

VC

CG

10

10a

1

5

4

3

2

Waterfall


ScenicView

VC

CG

10

10a

11

55

44

33

22

Waterfall


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In this example area, trails developed over a period oftime without the benefit of professional planning ordesign services. No guidelines were applied. Trails havebeen heavily used, and the season of use has increasedsubstantially from summer use to shoulder season throughsummer through shoulder season with some intermittentwinter use. Some of the trail segments go straight uphill.

Trail Segment leaves the Visitor Center in anapparently acceptable location.

Trail Segment crosses County Road 10 at an unsafelocation, and leaves County Road 10 quickly, a commonmistake, and goes straight downhill for an extendeddistance.

Trail Segment has several sustainable locations,but other locations go straight uphill, thereby being anunsustainable condition.

Trail Segment approaches the waterfall (aprominent landscape feature in this area) from the side,contradicting a design principle when determining traillocation.

Trail Segment has some sustainable locations, butgoes straight uphill in other locations, thereby being anunsustainable condition.

If corridor control points are missed, corridors can rarelybe rated as sustainable and caution should be exercisedbefore investing time and materials in maintenance,rehabilitation or armor activities.

y

1

2

3

4

5

1

2

3

4

5


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Prevailing cross slope and trail profile grade readings taken with a clinometer,while also recording additional sustainability notes, will assist the interdisciplinarytrail team in assessing trail corridors or surfaces for planned activities. Readings

are recommended for each 100-foot station.

The higher the percentages of unsustainable soils, excessive cross slopes orsteep trail profile grades, the more likely it is the corridor should be simplymaintained, rehabilitated, armored or relocated to more sustainable sites. Ifover 50% of a corridor is unsustainable, it is likely that the entire corridor needsto be abandoned, restored, and then a new corridor relocated to better soils orprevailing cross slope locations. Armor improvements (sometimes just minorspot improvements) will almost always be required to keep a trail corridor andtravel surface in sustainable condition.

Optimumprevailing cross

slopes gradesare evident

for a multipleuse trailconnection.

Sustainability Assessment Field Notes Example

Original Design Year? _____ Original Design Standard? _____ Nonprofit Partnership in Place? Y / N?

Station PrevailingCross SlopeGrade (%)

TrailProfile

Grade (%)

Aspect Soils Backslope TreadWidth

SurfaceMaterials

Rating Assessment Notes, Natural and CulturalResource Impacts?

0+00 0% E Silt OK 2-7 Cupped S PerformAs Needed Activities

1%

1+00 0% E Stone OK 2-9 Cupped S PerformAs Needed Activities

10%

2+00 25% SE Coarse OK 3 Cupped S PerformAs Needed Activities 10%

3+00 40% SE Silt Eroded 3 Outsloped S- PerformRegular Basis Activities

0%

4+00 25% SE Organic Eroded 3-9 Outsloped S- PerformRegular Basis Activities, excessiveerosion occurring

4%

5+00 15% E Coarse OK 3-5 Outsloped S PerformRegular Basis Activities 12%

6+00 10% E Coarse OK 3 Cupped S PerformAs Needed Activities


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Sustainab

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Checklis

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WebSear

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Purpose

Goals

Appropr

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Recreatio

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TrailCorrido

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TrailCorridorSu

stainabili

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TrailCor

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TravelSu

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RatingTo

ol

TrailMan

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LessonsL

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DRAFTS

ustainabi

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Review

FINAL

Sustaina

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Mount Bierstadt, west ofDenver, Colorado

Mountain Trail Planning


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This rock outcrop at LoryPlanning.l d h


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Soil types play a predominantrole is sustainable trail corridor

site selection. Cultural resources such ashome sites, mine shafts andNative American sites must

be identified in the planningprocess.

State Park will present asignificant challenge to trailplanners to find an easy-to-construct corridor.

Guidebooks and maps will helpthe interdisciplinary trail teamdevelop recommendations for

trail plans.

Including theconservation area

management teamis key to successful

mountain trailplanning.

Good Planning

Good planning canavoid problems

such as steep grades

and erosion, whichdestroy sustainability. National Park Service

Natural ResourceManagement Reference

Manual # 77, 2006.

Mountain Trail Planning


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National Park Service

Organic Act

The purpose of the National ParkService is ... to promote and regulate

the use of the Federal areas knownas national parks ... which purposeis to conserve the scenery and the

natural and historic objects and the

wild life therein and to provide for theenjoyment of the same in such mannerand by such means as will leave them

unimpaired for the enjoyment offuture generations.

Other land management agencieshave similar documents guiding their

mission.

Tools & Techniques

Typical Tools & TechniquesEstablish BackgroundInformation / FoundationsEstablish Plan GoalsEstablish Climate &Geographic ContextIdentify Ecosystem Type

Identify Rare Species &HabitatPhysical Planning ToolsTrail Profile CalculationsOff-Site Connections &Network Analyses

Optimum Trail CorridorIdentificationCompare Existing Corridorsto Optimum CorridorsCorridor ImplementationActions SequenceDevelop Corridor FrameworkBy Assembling IndividualCorridor PlansManagement Team ReviewCompliance Review

Outputs

DRAFT Mountain TrailPlan Package for ReviewPurposeGoalsSustainabilityAssessment SummaryBase Map

LandscapeCharacteristicsSummaryAnnotated SiteAnalysisCorridor Control

PointsCorridor FrameworkTrail ManagementTechniquesActions SequencesChecklistsLessons LearnedSummary

FINAL Mountain TrailPlan Package

Inputs

Typical InputsOutputs from Other ProcessAreasStakeholder AnalysisAerial Photos, Maps, DataBases

Lessons Learned Summary

A mountain trail plan is a fundamental tool land managers use tocoordinate existing and proposed trail activities with agency initiatives


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coordinate existing and proposed trail activities with agency initiativesand policies and serves as a guide for land managers in their decisionsregarding the location, funding, and implementation of trails undertheir jurisdiction. A common intent of trail plans is to standardize andsystematize the management of trails. Trail plans can also be used for

the coordination of trail projects across agency boundaries whereneighboring agencies have mutual goals.

A plan is best developed by an interdisciplinary trail team of resourceand design professionals. The trail plan will identify where and whentrail activities will occur and what uses will be allowed. The plan mayinclude both short-range (up to 5 years) and long-range goals (up to 50years). Updates to plans can address the long-range goals identified in

the original plan.

A professional trail planning process will involve all stakeholderswho might have an interest in the project: the public, agency resourceprofessionals, and neighboring land management agencies.

During development of a plan, many issues will come up and be addressedby the team which can adequately respond to situations as they arise. The

land manager is then presented with a professional plan which addressesthe issues that will face the design team.

Implicit in mountain trails planning is the understanding that differentuser groups will have different corridor needs. Also, visitation must beanalyzed to ensure appropriate solutions are developed.

Including a trail sustainability assessment summary of existing trails as

an input into the plan ensures that their condition as well as their fitnessfor continued inclusion in the trail system in their current condition isconsidered over the life of the plan.

This corral on the historic Green Ranchproperty lies in a saddle, a corridor control

point, and is the focus of several plannedtrails at Golden Gate Canyon State Park,Colorado.

Aspen trees provide habitat for a varietyof birds and mammals, and are naturallystriking in their appearance, and as such

must be accounted for in the trail plan.


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Colorado Ecosystems


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Colorados Grasslands transitionto the Montane Forest ecosystemalong Colorados front range,symbolic of two of the sevenmajor ecosystem types inColorado.

From the 3,300-foot high plains in eastern Colorado to the 14,000-foot-plus summits of its high peaks, Colorado displays a vast variety ofecosystems. Extensive grasslands, evergreen forests, and expanses ofalpine tundra cover the state, each providing trail users with rich and

diverse recreational experiences.

Understanding the natural characteristics of Colorados ecosystems,especially within your land management area, will help you to planand design trails that function well with each ecosystems naturalcharacteristics.

A basic understanding of vegetation will help interdisciplinary trail

teams identify ecosystem types. This will provide an understandingof associated soil types, moisture levels, and habitat concerns. All ofthese factors will give the trail planner information towards propertrail location and alignment, and are important to understand for trailrestoration projects.

Seven major ecosystem types can be found in Colorado. Organizing andsummarizing the following foundational information for each ecosystem

will help interdisciplinary trail teams understand implications of trailsideactions.

Range & Elevation: approximate location of ecosystem in terms ofthe geography of ColoradoCommon Soils: soil texture types for each ecosystemCommon Vegetation: general vegetation types (i.e.: grasses, forbs,shrubs) and some common speciesVegetation Soil Type Indicators: information on identifying soil

types based on vegetationTrail Considerations: trail planning information specific to thatecosystem type

Colorado EcosystemsBased upon Distribution of Ecosystem Types in the Southern Rocky

Mountain RegionfromFrom Grassland to Glacierby CorneliaFleischer Mutel and John C. Frederick.

Grasslands


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Range& Elevation

Common Soils CommonVegetation

Vegetation - SoilType Indicators

Trail Considerations

Eastern Coloradoplains, blends intofoothills Shrublandsand Montane Forests.

Less than 5,600 feetelevation.

Deep organic clay andsilt soils, frost freemore than 150 daysper year.

Occasionally soilsare coarse, sandy orcobbly.

Grasses and forbs,some shrubs.

Common weed speciesinclude Cheatgrass,Thistles andKnapweeds.

Pockets of shrublandmay exist on north-facing cool slopes. Thisindicates higher soilmoisture retention andlater season snowmelt.

Diffi cult soils for natural surface trailsolutions are common due to highpotential for erosion and mud.Gentle profile grades recommended.Trail location on south-facing slopes isbeneficial (dry), and a more sustainablelocation than on north-facing slopes.Armor improvements may be required.

Prevalence of weeds in theseecosystems may spread into trailcorridors.Lack of tall vegetation helps to speeddrying of muddy trails.Excellent opportunities for trailrestoration.

The West Valley Trail at LoryState Park near Fort Collins,Colorado is in the transitionfrom the Grasslands to theMontane Forest Ecosystem.

Mountain Grasslands & Meadows


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Range& Elevation




Interspersed inintermountain basins.

7,300 feet 10,000 feetelevation.

Deep and fine-textured.

Wet meadows mayhave large amounts ofaccumulated organicmatter.

Dry meadows: grassesand forbs. ShrubbyCinquefoil is common.

Wet meadows: sedges,rushes, Willow,Bog Birch, ShrubbyCinquefoil and forbs.

Mountain Greasslandsand Meadows areinterspersed throughoutthe Montane Forestand Subalpine ForestEcosystems.

Wet meadows are

dominated by sedges andrushes, not grasses.

Wet meadows usually require armorimprovements.Gentle profile grades recommended.Management issues such as with trailbraiding, widening or short-cuttingmay arise.Meadows offer excellent opportunitiesfor memorable visitor experiences,

including changes of scenery andwildlife viewing.Prevalence of weeds in theseecosystems may spread into trailcorridors.Restoration is generally quicklyaccomplished.

The Green Ranch Propertyat Golden Gate Canyon StatePark offers spectacular views

towards the south, includingMt. Evans. Trails here will bedesigned to not impact theseMountain Meadows.

Riparian


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Range& Elevation




Corridors along rivers,streams, and moistvalleys, interspersedstatewide.

Elevation variable.

Variable in depthand texture with highmoisture levels (maybe seasonal).

Lowland: CottonwoodTrees, shrubs (WildPlum, Hawthorn,Currant, Wild Rose,Snowberry, Willow)and Salt Cedar (westernslope invasive).

Mountain: Alder,Cottonwood, Willow,Birch, Colorado BlueSpruce and White Fir.

Riparian ecosystems areinterspersed throughoutColorado.

Rushes and sedges canbe an indicator of deep,fine-textured, wet soils.

Biologists can add expertise for theinterdisciplinary trail team to consider.Use careful design when designingtrails which cross riparian areas.Gentle profile grades recommended.Armor improvements may be required.In mountain riparian areas, frost-free season is usually shorter than

surrounding hillsides and ridges dueto cold air drainage. This results inlate season snowpack and potentiallymuddy trails in the early hiking season.Riparian areas have rich biodiversity,so trails can be a disturbance toimportant wildlife habitats.Riparian areas offer excellent

opportunities for memorable visitorexperiences, including changes ofscenery and wildlife viewing.

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Riparian areas offer many recre-ational opportunities yet requiremuch care when creating trails

near them or across them.

Shrublands


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Range& Elevation




Interspersedthroughout foothill andmountain regions andthe Colorado Plateau.

5,500 feet 10,000 feetelevation.

Semidesert regions:clay, silt, or sand.

Sagebrush regions:deep, fine-grained(clay and silt).

Mountain and foothillregions: well-drained,coarse-textured torocky and / or sand.

Semidesert regions:Greasewood,Shadescale, Four-winged Saltbush,Rabbitbrush, Winterfatand Big Sagebrush.

Sagebrush regions: BigSagebrush.

Mountain and foothillregions: Gambel Oak,Mountain Mahogany,Skunkbrush,Serviceberry, AntelopeBitterbrush, Wild Rose

and Currants.

Pockets of Shrublandmay be found on north-facing cool slopes ingrassland areas. Thistypically indicates highersoil moisture retentionand later seasonsnowmelt.

Shrublands are typically a sustainablelocation for trail corridors due to theircommonly coarse, well-draining soils.Gentle to moderate profile gradesrecommended.Open views of surrounding landscapesare common in Shrubland ecosystems.

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Shrublands offer unique trailopportunities. They are usually

very suitable for trails.

Pi J i W dl d

Pinon-Juniper Woodlands


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Range& Elevation




Western and southernColorado, southernpart of eastern foothills,southeast plains(patch).

4,800 feet 8,200 feet

elevation.

Typically are coarse(sandy / gravelly), butcan be fine-textured(clay).

Pinon Pine, RockyMountain Juniper,One-Seed Juniper (>7,600 in southernColorado) and avariety of shrub species(similar to Shrublands).

Pinon Pine is moretolerant of cold, thusit dominates stands athigher elevations.

Conversely, Juniper ismore drought-tolerant

and dominates stands atlower elevations and drysites.

Prevalence of sandy / gravelly soils(coarse) in Pinon-Juniper woodlandsis a sustainable characteristic of theseecosystems.Gentle to moderate profile gradesrecommended.Pinon-Juniper Woodlands provide

for a complex variety of foreground,middleground and backgroundviewsheds, significantly increasingvariety for trail users.

44

Pinon-Juniper Woodlandsoffer spectacular forms and

spatial variety for the trail userto enjoy, and are usually very

suitable for trails.


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Subalpine Forests


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Range& Elevation




9,000 feet to tree lineor approximately~11,500 feet 12,000 feetelevation.

Coarse (sandy), rocky,can be fine-textured.

Aspen, LodgepolePine, Limber Pine,Bristlecone Pine,Engelmann Spruce andSubalpine Fir.

Pine species are moredominant on warm, drysites.

Late-season snowpack can keep trailshidden into early summer, creatingmuddy conditions.Thick layers of organic material mayhave accumulated in some sites.Soils are typically good for locatingsustainable trail corridors.Gentle to moderate trail profile grades

recommended.Subalpine Forests provide for morevaried views, similar to foreground,middleground and backgroundviews offered in the Pinon-JuniperWoodlands, but from higherelevations.

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Subalpine Forests offer abundanttrail opportunities, providing moreenclosed experiences for trail users.

R C S il C V t ti S il T il C id ti

Alpine Tundra


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Range& Elevation




High mountain ridgetops and peaks.

Greater than 11,500 feetelevation.

Coarse soils, can befine-textured in low-lying wet areas or wetmountain ranges (San

Juan Mountains).

Cushion plants, forbs,grasses, sedges andlow shrubs (at lowerelevations).

Lush alpine meadowscan have fine-texturedsoils and remain wet wellinto the summer.

Vegetation height is agood indicator of soilmoisture (taller plants

usually equate to highersoil moisture levels).

Gentle profile grades recommended.Seasonal snowpack can last well intothe summer (observe over severalseasons), creating muddy conditions.Improvements which mitigatesometimes continuous snowmelt arerecommended.Alpine plants are slow to establish and

grow in disturbed areas. Limit trailactivities to the trail surface.Waterbars are discouraged due to thepotential for sediment build up overneighboring alpine plants. If waterbarsare needed, drain into talus or Willows.Few physical barriers exist abovetimberline to prevent trail short

cutting.Scree fields are best avoided.Talus fields are diffi cult sites toimplement trails, but provide asustainable trail surface.Restoration is diffi cult due to shortgrowing season and harsh growingconditions.

Environments of an extremely fragile character (i.e.: marshy and alpineareas) require special attention in order to protect their sensitive natural

uniqueness. Thus it is essential that the delicate balance be maintainedbetween maximizing hiking opportunities and the environmental carryingcapacity of the ecosystem. Overuse can destroy the natural environment,which is an essential segment of the hiking experience. William G. King,

1984.

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Optimum Soils for Sustainability

Soils result from the mechanical or chemical breakdown of rock


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substrates, and can be classified as coarse (cobbles, gravels, sands) andfine (silts and clays). Coarse soils offer the best setting for trails, andusually coincide with preferred prevailing cross slope ranges. Fine soils

usually coincide with unfavorable or unsustainable prevailing cross sloperanges. Organic matter is present in both coarse and fine soil conditions,and on the one hand needs be removed during trail implementation asit prevents soil from binding together well and contributes to muddyconditions upon decomposition, while on the other hand encouragesrevegetation during restoration activities. Optimum soils for naturalsurface trails are predominantly coarse soils, with some small amount offines mixed in to act as a binding material. Optimum soil types are often

referred to as mineral soils. See table on page 52.

Soils Comparison Matrix

Coarse Soils Silts Clays

Trail Considerations Coarse soils leaves large pore spaces forwater to drain through soil. Fractured

particle shapes ensures a firm and stabletrail surface. Occasionally, sandy soilscan be too loose if there is not enoughbinding material (i.e.: small amounts of

clay and / or silt) present.

Silt does not leave enough pore spacefor water to seep through soil, and

erodes easily.

Clay does not have enough pore space forwater to drain through, and holds water insoil, creating long-lasting mud. Clay soilshave high potential for erosion because

water runs over it, not draining through it,and small particles of clay are carried away

easily by wind and water.

Particle Size Large Medium Small Small

Erosive Potential Low Moderate Moderate High High

Drainage Capability Excellent Poor Moderate Poor

Organic Content On Surface Only Moderate High High

Restoration Potential Diffi cult Good Good

Recommended Design Solutions Hierarchy for Sustainability


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Build it

Correspondingly, trail use almost always goes upover time. Build it and they will come is more

than a catchy baseball clich. Project criteria whichtake this into account will more likely result in trails

which are more sustainable.

And They Will Come

Design Solutions Hierarchy

Trail use is more substantial closer to trailheads, with use tapering offas distance from trailheads increases, usually corresponding to day use

activities. Interdisciplinary trail teams are encouraged to customizetheir plans and projects to their specific physical and social context.Frontcountry can be generically defined as up to 3 to 5 miles fromthe trailhead, middlecountry can be generically defined as 3 to 5 to 7miles from the trailhead, and backcountry can be generically definedas over 7 miles from the trailhead. Investment in trailside improvementswill likely increase the further the project is from the trailhead.

Distance fromTrailhead

Optimum TrailProfile Grades

Optimum PrevailingCross Slopes (%)

Tread Width Natural Surface versusArmor Improvements

(%)Recreation Accessible Not Defined < 5% 0 20% 36 minimum Low % / High %

Mountain Trails

Frontcountry X < 3 5 miles 0% 8% 20% 40% 24 60 ~ 85% / 15%

Middlecountry 3 5 < X > 7 miles 0% 12% 20% 60% 24 48 ~ 60% / 40%

Backcountry X > 7 miles 0% 15% 20% 70% 24 36 ~ 15% / 85%

Ascent Routes Any Distance 15% < X > 100% > 60% NA Low %

Scramble Routes Any Distance 15% < X > 100% > 60% NA Low %

Technical Climbing Routes Any Distance NA NA NA Low %

Extent of Impact Tool

Most trails will impact 1.5 to 2 times the trail tread width.

Existing

Conditions

Tread Cut with

Backslope & Outslope

InitialTread Cut

Table A. Opportunity for Trail Sustainability Prevailing Cross Slope (%) & Aspect


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Prevailing CrossSlope ( %)

West(W)

Southwest(SW)

South(S)

Southeast(SE)

East(E)

Northeast(NE)

North(N)

Northwest(NW)

0 20% Good Good Good Good Good Poor Poor Poor

20 40% Excellent! Excellent! Excellent! Excellent! Excellent! Poor Poor Poor

40 60% Very Good Very Good Very Good Very Good Very Good Poor Poor Poor

60 70% Good Good Good Good Good Poor Poor Poor

70% + Poor Poor Poor Poor Poor Poor Poor Poor

Table B. Opportunity for Trail Sustainability Prevailing Cross Slope (%) & Soils

Prevailing CrossSlope (%)

Coarse Soils Silts Clays

0 20% Good Poor Poor

20 40% Excellent! Good Poor

40 60% Excellent! Good Poor

60 70% Good Poor Poor

70% + Poor Poor Poor

Table C. Opportunity for Trail Sustainability Elevation & Aspect

Elevation West(W)

Southwest(SW)

South(S)

Southeast(SE)

East(E)

Northeast(NE)

North(N)

Northwest(NW)

3,300 7,000 Excellent! Excellent! Excellent! Excellent! Excellent! Good Good Good

7,000 9,000 Very Good Excellent! Excellent! Excellent! Very Good Good Good Good

9,000 10,000 Good Very Good Very Good Very Good Good Poor Poor Poor

10,000 11,500 Poor Good Good Good Poor Poor Poor Poor

> 11,500 Poor Poor Poor Poor Poor Poor Poor Poor

Trail Profile Calculations

Several profile grades calculated out over the anticipatedt t l ti l i ill t h h i t l E


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total vertical gain will portray how many horizontallinear feet of trail would be required at each profilegrade. Be sure to account for reversals in elevation

between corridor control points, not just the rawvertical distance gain. In the case of alternative #2, A,B C, D and E must be added together to determine thecombined vertical gain. Alternative #1, a no-actionalternative, could be further studied and compared toalternatives # 2 and #3 in the design and complianceprocesses.

Trail Profile Alternative #3

% grade = vertical difference / linear feet (l.f.).05 = F + G + H + I + J + K + L / l.f..05 = 1,500 / LL = 30,000 linear feet of trail (5.68 miles)5.68 x 1.25 = 7.1 miles (for flexibility in design)

4 switchbacks are also required

Trail Profile CalculationsCalculating alternative average sustainable profilegrades and comparing required investmentsand anticipated resource impacts ensures thatcorridor control points and high cost investmentsare located in permanent locations.

Trail Profile Alternative #2

% grade = vertical difference / linear feet (l.f.).07 = A + B + C + D + E / l.f.

.07 = 1,500 / LL = 21,429 linear feet of trail (4.05 miles)

4.05 x 1.25 = 5.1 miles (for flexibility in design)

Horizontal Distance

Trail Profile Alternative #2 7% Average Grade

VerticalElevation

A

B

C

D

E

Horizontal Distance

Trail Profile Alternative #3 5% Average Grade

VerticalEl

evation

F

G

H

I

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Existing cross slope ranges are generally moderate.Approximately 55% of the property has cross slopes of 20

Example Planning Outputs Physical Planning Criteria Summary

6,800l i d


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The eastern plains of Coloradoextend as far as the eye can

see east of the foothills ofColorados front range. The

prevailing cross slopes in theforeground are favorable for

trail corridor locations.

Approximately 55% of the property has cross slopes of 20 60%; approximately 15% over 60%; and approximately40% of the parcel is in the less than 20% range.

There are several rock outcrops on the property, a hazard,as they are fragile rocks and erode easily. Elevations aremoderate, between 6,000 and 7,000 feet.

Approximately 60% of the parcel has an aspect of south,approximately 25% of the parcel has an aspect of east, andapproximately 15% has an aspect of west. No land on this

parcel has a north aspect.

Some of the open lands have substantial topsoil. The moreupland slopes are have predominantly coarse soils. Thereare several intermittent streams on the parcel.

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Southeast

facingslopes

elevation andabove

South andsouthwest

facing slopes

Distantviews to high

peaks

Gentleprevailing

cross slopes

6,000elevation and

below

Moderateprevailing

cross slopesSteep

prevailingcross slopes

Steepprevailing

cross slopes

RockOutcrops

Uplands

(predominantlycoarse soils)

Lowlands(predominantly fine

soils)

Moderate

prevailingcross slopes

Gentleprevailing

cross slopes

Summary

Area-wide Base Map / Existing Conditions


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This conservation area was acquired by a conservationnonprofit agency and transferred to a land management

agency. It originally was a homestead and cows were run onthis property, as there are many grassy openings. When theland was acquired, game and cattle trails were converted totrails. Currently a trail dead-ends at the waterfall, comingin from the side, offering an uninspiring view.

There is a scenic viewpoint which is taken advantage of.

Climate

Climate is semi-arid, with most moisture falling as snowfrom December through April totals 150 inches per year.Frequent summer thunderstorms occur, and can drop 1of rain in just one hour. Frost depth is 40. Winds are fromthe northwest in winter and can be severe. Summer windsare predominantly from the southwest.

Geographic Context

This parcel is about 50 miles from major population areas,which invites year-round users. Local destination resortspublicize the area as a great place for weekend getaways andrecreational activities. Now that the park has been open for

several years, neighboring conservation land managers arealso encouraging trail connections and increased trail use.

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Winterwinds

(can besevere)

Summerwinds

Major metropolitanarea approximately50 miles

This parcel would be characterized as a Montane Forestand sits at the base of several mountains which rise to over

Landscape Characteristics

Higherelevation


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and sits at the base of several mountains which rise to over10,000. There are several of Colorados popular 13,000-foot peaks just a few miles away.

Ponderosa Pine is a dominant tree in this area, withscattered Aspen groves as well as scattered under storyplants. Aspen groves host abundant wildlife and providefall color viewing opportunities.

The Ponderosa Pine forest is mature, and park-like innature, some stands are dense, some are scattered. It has

not burned in over 100 years. On-site views are attractivedue to the openness of some of the forest stands.

The landform is bold in nature but is dwarfed by the higherpeaks nearby. Wetland values exist in the lower elevationsof the site.

Off-site views are impressive, as the valley to the south is

dramatic, with a clearly western flavor of hay fields andranch roads.

Texture in the landscapeis an important landscape

characteristic to consider whenplanning mountain trails.

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Scenic

View

elevationareas consist

of a dense

MontaneForest

Lower elevationareas contain

riparian /wetland values

includingopportunities forwildlife viewing

Aspengrove

Middleelevation

areasconsist of

a scatteredMontaneForest

Middleelevation

areasconsist of

a scatteredMontane

Forest

The ranchsite has ranch

structuresassociated withhistoric uses in

the area

Aspengrove

Summary

Annotated Area-wide Site Analysis


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Scenic views to the valleys and ranch lands below areto be capitalized upon.

Steep slopes are to be avoided.County Road 10 is crossed in an unsafe location andthe trail should be re-routed to a safer location.Neighboring land offers the opportunity for networklinkages and there is a gentle slope where a newtrailhead can be established.An opportunity exists to approach the waterfall frombelow, a more desirable observer location.

Constraints, such as property boundaries, are not aconcern in this project.

Nearly flat (< 20% prevailing cross slope)two-track ranch roads usually become

muddy when converted to trails. They areinherently unsustainable.

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ScenicView

SafetyConcerns

SteepSlopes

RiparianArea

NewTrailhead

Opportunity

TrailsOpportunity

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ScenicView

SafetyConcerns

SteepSlopes

RiparianArea

NewTrailhead

Opportunity

TrailsOpportunity

Off-Site

Off-SiteWoodpecker snags or elk rubs may be desirable places tobring a trail. Scenic viewpoints have long been identified

Corridor Control Points


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RanchStructures

RockOutcrops

Foundation

ValleyViews

Valley

Views

Waterfall

ValleyViews

Switchback

Location

Linkage

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Foundation

ValleyViews

Valley

Views

Waterfall

ValleyViews

Switchback

Location

Linkage

59

as desirable trail features to include along a trail. Culturalresource remnants, such as ranch structures and

foundations may be desirable places to bring trail users.Rock outcrops, in this case, are corridor constraints, placesto avoid. Off-site connections are key to successful networkconnections and increasing trails-related benefits.

Discovery of natural and culturalresource values strengthens the overall

recreation experience, as is the casewith this child and a woodpecker snag.

IL

IL

Trails that link appropriate origins and destinations withappropriate intermediary linkages form the basis of a

l l f h d fi d d l

Mountain Trails Plan Corridor Summary

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mountain trail plan. Most of the identified corridor controlpoints are accommodated in this plan.

Establishing this plan allows resource professionals to haveinput into corridor locations, allowable uses, and potentialresource impact determination.

Tabulating origins, destinations and linkages for each trailcorridor, combined with describing the trail purpose,elevation gain, anticipated trail length, appropriate users

types, and interpretive story opportunities yields theframework for the trail plan.

Corridor C (Example)Corridor Cs origin is at County Road 10, traversessoutheast to an appropriate switchback location,then heads north and northeast to its destination, thecampground.

The purpose of Corridor C is to provide multipleuse access to the lower elevations of the park and toconnect the visitor center and Corridor B with thecampground.Natural characteristics of the predominant PonderosaPine forest as well as riparian features are to bepreserved.The estimated length is 1.2 miles, with a verticalchange of approximately 120 feet for an average profilegrade of about 2%.Prevailing cross slopes are moderate.Appropriate uses are hiker and mountain bicyclist.Interpretive stories include cultural resource history,riparian values and forest ecology.

A

B

C

D

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F

G

H

J

K

L

IL

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Patience is a virtue! Looking over a trails plan for trailneeds, and prioritizing corridors and actions (C1, C2, C3,C C ) ithi t i bl id i f d ti l

Corridor Implementation Actions Sequence

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C4, C5) within sustainable corridors is a foundationalethic of sustainable mountain trails.

Outlining the needs of the priorities will yield insightinto the appropriate crew skill level to carry out thetask. Many times it makes sense to develop trails in alinear fashion, sometimes resources impacts or seasonalwildlife concerns may indicate the need to leap-frogsome actions ahead of other segments.

C1

C2

C3

C4C5

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

J

K

L

Patience?

Knowing when trailcorridors are unsustainable

and must be relocated tosustainable sites, and havingthe patience to do so is thefoundational sustainability

ethic. Establishing asustainable corridor and

implementing it according tosustainable ethics is just thestart of a long process. Spot

improvements, maintenance,rehabilitation and some

armoring are understood

to be required in mostcorridors over long periods

of time.


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Mountain

TrailPla

nning

Checklis

t

WebS

earch/L

iterature

Review

PurposeGoa

ls

Sustaina

bilityAssessme

ntSumma

ry

Backgrou

nd

Foundatio

nDocum

entsSum

mary

Mountain

TrailPla

nGoals

Geograp

hicConte

xt

ClimateS

ummary

Ecosyste

mType

RareSpecies&

Habitat

PhysicalP

lanningCrite

riaSumm

ary

Area-wid

eBaseMap

Existing

Conditio

nsSummary

Landscap

eCharac

teristicsS

ummary

Annotate

dArea-w

ideSiteA

nalysis

Corridor

Control

Points

FeasibleT

railCorrid

ors

NetworkA

nalysis

CorridorFra

mework

Corridor

Implementation

ActionsS

equences

TrailMan

agementO

ptions

LessonsL

earned

DRAFTM

ountainT

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Review

FINALM

ountainT

railPlanP

ackage

Blowdown along the trail upMount Yale, near Buena Vista,

Colorado

Basic Design


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Basic Design

Carpenter Peak Trail, RoxboroughState Park, Colorado


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1 2 3

4 5

The Carpenter Peak Trail at Roxborough State Park, Colorado, wasplanned and implemented according to sustainability principles. Thefollowing basic design concepts are evident:

Seasonal color in the ground plane and curvilinearalignment create interest for the trail user as well as viewsof rock outcrops in the backgroundThe form, line, color and texture of the trail matches thecharacteristic landscape qualities of the areaForeshadowing of Carpenter Peak in the distance ... drawshikers upwards toward the peakAtmospheric conditions create differing effects dependent

upon time of day, moisture levels, and season or solaraspectThe Carpenter Peak Trail gently rises to reveal increasingobserver superior position views of the Red RocksFountain Formation and Denver, Colorado in the distance

1

2

3

4

5

Characteristic Landscape Qualities

The most basic design inspiration for the interdisciplinary trail team isthe naturally occurring form, line, color and texture of the characteristiclandscape of the project area as evidenced by these photographs from


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Valley Trails, Lory State Park,Colorado

landscape of the project area as evidenced by these photographs fromLory State Park, Colorado:

Continuously covered grasslands on gently prevailingcross slopes, scattered shrubs and dispersed PonderosaPine characterize where the plains meet the front range ofColoradoArthurs Rock is the predominate topographic feature,rising above the surrounding grasslands and foothillsExpansive unimpaired natural scenes southward,northward and eastward inspire visitors

Trails gently rise and fall with the topography lying lightlyon the land drawing their cues from the existing landscapeforms and lines, without impact to existing shrub massesThe Dakota Hogback along the eastern edge of thepark constrains the trail location, yet the trail still flows,rising and falling with the prevailing topography, offeringunimpaired scenes for visitors to enjoyUsers of all types, hikers, mountain bicyclists and

equestrians find the Valley Trails inspiring in their simplicityand subordination to the existing landscape

6

1

2

3

4

5

6

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3

4 5

Design Principles

General design principles such as sequence, axis, and rhythm as wellas design perception principles such as enclosure and openness,enframement and expanse, contrast and accent, dominance and


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1

2

3 4

5

enframement and expanse, contrast and accent, dominance andcodominance, harmony, variety and uniformity, convergence and

divergence are all to be considered by the interdisciplinary trail team.The following are design principles incorporated into the SunriseVista Trail at Steamboat Lake State Park:

Leaving the Sunrise Vista Campground, the trail followsthe Steamboat Lake shoreline ... what lurks?Turning northward, trail users get their first glimpse ofHahns Peak, a prominent peak in northwest ColoradoThen trail users are treated to an asymmetrically

enframed view of Hahns PeakSoon, an expansive axial view bisected by a curvilinearalignment is framed by Aspen trees and Ponderosa Pinetrees and Willows .Then a slight glimpse Hahns Peak towards the northThen finally a prominently framed view of Hahns Peakto the north Before the Sunrise Vista trail turns into the forest for its

journey towards the Steamboat Lake State Park visitorcenter

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Sunrise Vista Trail,

Steamboat LakeState Park, Colorado

Design Variables

Motion through the landscape, apparent light or darkness, atmosphericconditions, seasonal conditions, distance, observer position, scaleand time would all be given consideration during design by the


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Green Ranch,Golden Gate

Canyon StatePark, Colorado

6 7

1

2

3 4

5

and time would all be given consideration during design by theinterdisciplinary trail team. A few design variables are displayed in

these photographs:Light and shadow play games with trail users, stimulatinginterest, creating new scenes, and movement throughoutthe landscape provides an infinite variety of scenesVivid and bold texture of this deciduous shrub is a short-lived sightCloud buildup above a mountain meadow subdues yetstrengthens the presence of the meadow grasses and

wildflowersClose-up views of wildflowers are almost ephemeral tothe trail user, sometimes lasting only a few days, but theirpresence is dramatic and memorableDistant views of successive mountain ranges is screenedby Lodgepole Pine tree branches creating an eerieappearanceCloud cover is common on afternoons along Colorados

northern front range, with threatening summerthunderstorms commonAfternoon light shining through broken clouds createslight and shadow patterns that add interest to the scene

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7

1

2

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Fan Lake

Rocky Mountain National Park

BasicDesign

Checklist

WebSear

ch/Liter

atureRev

iew

Character

isticLand

scapeQu

alities

DesignP

rinciples

DesignV

ariables

Communic

ation

New Trail Design


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This two-track road inColorados high country, likemost old 4-wheel drive roads,will not support sustainabletrail use and therefore shouldnot be considered for new


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Field work is bestaccomplished by 2 people,and with the appropriate toolsincluding a clinometer and a100-foot engineers tape.

Topographic map study isessential to successful new traildesign.

Field notes are an importantfield work technique used todocument trailside decisions

and communicate designintentions to trail crews.

not be considered for new

trail design. It is too steep andcrosses the prevailing crossslope at too great an angle.Erosion gullies have alreadystarted to form.

The Willow Creek Trail at RoxboroughState Park benefited from a clean palette

and is a successful example of new traildesign. It was built by park staff and

volunteers and is kept in sustainablecondition with seasonal maintenance.

Tools & Techniques Outputs

DRAFT New Trail Design

Inputs

New Trail Design


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New Trail Design Vision

Probably the most crucial step in

constructing a trail is to line out theentire path from start to finish. GuyArthur, 1975.

Typical Tools & Techniques

Establish Design GoalsBase MapTopographic Map StudySlope AnalysisLandscape Feature AnalysisAnnotated Site Analysis

Establish IntermediaryControl PointsAlignment Design Cross Slope CriteriaApply Basic Design PrinciplesNetwork AnalysisManagement Team ReviewCompliance Review

DRAFT New Trail Design

Package for ReviewWritten SummaryThumbnail SketchesDrawingsBase MapAnalysis Summaries

Trail Corridor PlanTypical SectionTypical DetailsArmor OptionsCustom DetailsTrail ManagementTechniques

Actions SequencesChecklistsCost EstimatesSpecificationsLessons LearnedSummary

FINAL New Trail DesignPackage

Typical InputsOutputs from Other ProcessAreasLessons Learned Summary

New trail design on the Colorado Trailnear Breckenridge, Colorado resultedin this curvilinear alignment.


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Key Map


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Example New Trail Design Outputs Base Map / Existing Conditions Tool


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My New Trail Design

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Creating a base map and mapping existing conditions enables theinterdisciplinary trail team to record observations, share thoughtsand exchange information.

Slope Analysis Tool


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My New Trail Design

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Slope analysis is the most fundamental landscape architectural siteplanning tool and will yield insights into the degree of modificationrequired to fit a trail corridor to the ground. Steeper prevailing crossslopes require more investment of time and materials. Sometimes

extensive armor improvements are required.

Landscape Feature Analysis Tool


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My New Trail Design

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Landscape feature analysis records landscape features that arepertinent to the design at hand. Open areas may allow views, or onthe contrary, may provide views to undesirable areas. Rock outcropsmay be areas to avoid with a trail for novice hikers, and foundations

may attract illegal artifact gathering.

Campground

Waterfall

Open Area

Rock Outcrop

Trailhead

Stone Foundation

Middle elevation areasconsist of a scattered

Montane Forest

Riparian Corridor

Moderateprevailing

cross slopes

Gentleprevailing

cross slopes

Annotated Site Specific Site Analysis Tool

Middle elevation areasconsist of a scattered

Montane Forest


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An annotated site analysis is a synthesis of the previous studies. It isused for communication of site opportunities (i.e.: valley views) andconstraints (i.e.: steep slopes, stone foundation to avoid) amongstthe interdisciplinary trail team and stakeholders. It is a powerful tool

for management team and compliance review.

Stone Foundation

Valley Views

Ridgeline

Gentleprevailing

cross slopes

Steep Slopes

Riparian Corridor

Montane Forest

1/4 Prevailing Cross Slope Criteria Tool

4 X


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Using a pair of engineering dividers or a map tool from topographicmap software, the interdisciplinary trail team can layout trailalignments on the base map by first measuring the prevailingcross slope (X) and extending out four times (4 X) parallel to the

contour.

X

4 X

X

Gently climbing at 1/4 the prevailing crossslope grade will yield sustainable grades

which minimally impact the naturalenvironment.

Sustainable Trail Design

Mountain TrailBridge

Sustainable HorizontalAlignment


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Sustainable trail design is built upon suffi cient field work whichinvestigates all opportunities for natural surface trails whichobliquely, yet gently, cross contours while climbing or descending.Corridor control points and other significant investments, such as

bridges, are located in permanent locations. Intermediary controlpoints connect corridor control points.

Sustainable trail corridors, like the one in the sketch plan above, willminimally impact the natural processes of the area. Recreational usewill not likely impact natural resources as much as natural processes(rainfall, runoff, snowmelt runoff, and wind) will after initial impact

is created by human traffi c, in any form.

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Natural DrainagePattern

Alignment

Natural drainage patterns are not impactedby trail profiles gently climbing or

descending at less than 1/4 the prevailingcross slope grades, minimizing the potential

for erosion.

Network Analysis Tool

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Once one corridors alignment is confirmed, the interdisciplinarytrail team must study future connections to ensure that futureopportunities are not precluded by decisions made for the currentproject. This ensures sustainability of the trail network, not just one

trail corridor.

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Future Connection

A

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New Trail Design Design Notes Example

Station CrossSlope %

(Left)

CrossSlope %(Right)

Trail ProfileGrade (%)

Azimuth Soils New Trail Design Notes

TreadCut

Options

Prevailing CrossSlope (%)

0 20%

20 40%

1

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CorridorClearingOptions

Height(H)

Width(W)

8 Feet 6 Feet

8 Feet 8 Feet

10 Feet 6 Feet

10 Feet 8 Feet

10 Feet 10 Feet

C

B

D

A

E

Trail Drainage Options

Trail Drain

Swale Crossing

Paved Dip / Stone Paving

Stepping Stones

Stone Waterbar

Stone Drains

A

B

C

D

E

F

Mountain TrailBridge

Options - see p. 99.

Simple Foot Log

Log with Handrail

Foot Traffi c Only

Multiple Use

Boardwalk

1

2

3

4

5

On-TrailManagement

Options - see p. 133.

Barriers

Educational Signage

Directional Signage

One-Way Routes

Clockwise /CounterclockwiseRouting

2

1

4

3

5

(Left) (Right)

0+00 0% 0% 108d Good Begin Clearing , Begin Tread Cut ,Width = 36 inches.

3%

1+00 0% 10% 120d Good Install Trail Drains on downhill side at 1+40,1+75 at low points.

8% Note: Good source of stone in this area, uphill fromthe trail.

2+00 35% 40% 125d Good Begin Tread Cut at 3+75. 12%

3+00 30% 35% 120d Good 3+50 Begin Retaining Stone Wall (2 H X 10 L).

7%

4+00 45% 55% 120d Good Begin Tread Cut at 4+00.

6%

5+00 45% 50% 125d Good Install barriers and educational signage

for the restoration area. 7%

D 1

A

3

21

40 60%

60 70%

> 70%

Crowned Trail

Tread Cut withDitch

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Cherry CreekCastlewood Canyon State Park

near Franktown, Colorado

NewTrailDesi

gn

Checklis

t

WebSear

ch/Liter

atureRev

iew/Mor

eTools

Sustaina

bilityAsse

ssmentSu

mmary

Mount

ainTrailP

lanSumm

ary

DistanceFrom

Trailhea

d

CorridorBaseM

ap

Existing

ConditionsSum

mary

Character

isticLand

scapeQualitiesS

ummary

SlopeAn

alysis

TrailProfi

leGrade

Calculati

ons

Annotate

dSite-Sp

ecificSite

Analysis

Intermed

iaryCon

trolPoints

ActionS

equences

TrailManageme

ntOption

s

LessonsL

earned

DRAFTN

ewTrailDesign

Package

Review

FINALN

ewTrailD

esignPack

age

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Restoration Planning


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Native seed collection is acommon practice that provideslocally adapted plants forrevegetation efforts.

Barriers are an effective way to stopunwanted trail use. This buck and railbarrier at Lory State Park was moved

many times to newly restored areas asnew trails were developed.

Educational signage is aneffective way to keep users offof restored areas. Closed for

Restoration is an effectivemessage on such signs.

Transplanting plugs is acommon grassland and alpinerestoration technique.

Restoration Planning

Tools & Techniques

Typical Tools & Techniques

Outputs

DRAFT Restoration

Inputs

Typical Inputs


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Accomplishing restorationactivities parallel to new traildesign activities communicatesa sense of responsibilitytowards resource stewardship.

Web Search / LiteratureReview / Science ReviewEstablish Restoration GoalsSite-Specific Site AnalysisMicroclimate AnalysisEstimating Techniques

4-Step Restoration DesignStrategiesClosure StrategyStabilization StrategyRevegetation StrategyMonitoring & EvaluationStrategies

Compliance ReviewFunding StrategyManagement Team ReviewCompliance Review

1.

2.

3.

4.

Planning Package forReviewWritten SummaryPlan DrawingsTypical SectionsTypical DetailsCustom DetailsCost EstimatesMaterials ListLabor EstimatesSpecificationsTrail ManagementTechniques

Actions SequencesChecklistsLessons LearnedSummary

FINAL RestorationPlanning Package

FINAL New Trail DesignPackage

Outputs from Other ProcessAreasLessons Learned Summary


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Volunteerism & Restoration Projects

Restoration treatments are well suited to nonprofit agencies and / orindividual volunteers whose mission is compatible with restorationecology. Restoration projects usually are repetitive in nature and usuallycan be accomplished by novices while still achieving high quality results.Highly trained staff should be responsible for doing the most diffi cult

t ti k hil l t m l d t m l t t ti

Restoration Implementation

Restoration implementation generally occurs at the same time as newtrail implementation. Before restoration activities are implemented, itis best if the project manager coordinates with field staff to ensure thatsalvaged topsoil and vegetation resources from trail implementation aremade available for restoration. The timing and amount of these resources

i l t mi imizi t ti ff t d m imizi lt


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restoration work, while volunteers are employed to complete revegetationwork, check dams, and other less-technical restoration work whenappropriate. Seed collection and seeding, which takes place in the fall,can usually be completed by volunteers led by trained staff.

are crucial to minimizing restoration efforts and maximizing results.

The restoration planning summary package is put together after theproject is designed, the site conditions are adequately analyzed andcharacterized, and labor and material requirements are determined. Thegoal of the plan is to provide an understanding of the level of restorationto be accomplished on the site, as well as a schedule for completion. Todevelop an effective restoration plan

Address existing land management goals and objectivesProvide an introductory project summaryList materials to use, especially if non-standardExplain how the plan mitigates legislated wilderness or other spe-cial management concernsList species of concern that will be protected by the projectSummarize labor and material needsInclude baseline (i.e.: pre-project) photographs

Describe the restoration techniques to be employedInclude a general site description for each restoration site on theprojectDevelop actions plan sequences and actions notes sequences, theirtiming and assign responsibility for each action

The Willow Creek Trail provides arecreational respite for urban and suburbanvisitors to Roxborough State Park, Colorado.This location was an impacted area whichhas now been restored.


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Restoration Before & After Photographs

Photographs

A picture is worth a thousand words,

or as in the case of these restorationl l h


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Mount Belford, 1997, 1999, 2004. Restoration, in this case by

the Colorado Fourteeners Initiative, is worth the significanteffort required. Visitors to Mount Belford will now enjoynatural scenes where once they would have experiencedextensive visual resource impacts. Thoughtful trail planning inadvance will preclude this type of impact from happening inthe future.

or as in the case of these restorationexamples several pictures are worth a

million words.

Mount Harvard, post-restoration project (above)

and pre-restorationproject (below).

Pre-restorationproject photograph

Post-restorationproject photograph

Corridor Restoration Actions Sequence Plan

10a

10a

Restoration Actions

Construction Actions

Legend

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