Title: (Optional) Develop a plan for the location, construction, and maintenance of a scenic trail with minimal environmental impact.
Course: Outdoor Recreation, Parks, and Tourism Systems Management (18549) > Section: Managing Recreational Areas

Development should include

- stating recreational objectives/purposes (e.g., type of use, frequency of use, accessibility needs)
- gathering materials
  - topographic and soils maps
  - hydrological information
  - environmental impact studies
  - viewshed studies
- outlining the steps required to construct and maintain a scenic trail
- planning public hearings and notifications
- creating a sustainable trail through site planning and engineering
- performing a hazard assessment
- acquiring appropriate permits
- completing construction
- facilitating visitor communication and education (e.g., staying on trails, sensitive species, shared use)
- providing plans for maintenance.

Teacher Resources:

- Accessibility Guidebook for Outdoor Recreation and Trails, U.S. Forest Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture
- Mountain Bike Trail Development Guidelines, International Mountain Biking Association

Process/Skill Questions:

- Why would a permit be required to construct a scenic trail?
- Why is public input required on public lands?
- How would topographic maps aid in trail planning and development?
- How does the trail's location and/or intended use affect its design?
- What information could be obtained from a soils survey?
- What tools and equipment may be needed for trail construction?