Trail Design

I try to find a drier trail route in Deerwood.

I've come to believe that forest trail design is very important.

Logging trails are cut for the purpose of machine (or draft animal) access to cut timber. They are quick, to the purpose and often an environmental disaster area.

Forest estate trails, on the other hand, serve to display the beauty and varied points of interest throughout the complex habitat. These very special trails should be carefully placed and refined through thoughtful study of the topography and species distribution to afford the most enjoyable sensory experience and the least impact on the environment.

Here's a few of my growing Trail Design Principles....

• Stay high and dry (provides a broader view and avoids wet feet).
• Gradual trail transitions.
• Access Points of Interest (POI) such as wildlife blind locations.
  
• Include natural rest areas.
• Combine formal trails (wide) for utility access, with winding (narrow) footpaths.