Guidelines for trail planning, design and management
A toolkit for state and local government agencies, community groups and investors on how to plan, manage and market exceptional trail experiences. Acknowledgements These guidelines have been prepared with the support of the nine local governments within Barwon South West Region, Great Ocean Road Regional Tourism as well as the Regional Development Australia, Regional Development Victoria and Parks Victoria.
Southern Grampians SHIRE COUNCIL
Photos: Tourism Victoria Tourism Australia Great Walks of Australia – The Great Ocean Walk by Bothfeet
Traditional Owner acknowledgment The project team wishes to acknowledge TRC Tourism Pty Ltd for their assistance Trails across the State of Victoria traverse the traditional lands in the development of the Guidelines. of many Aboriginal groups. The land has special cultural significance for the Traditional Owners who have always had a spiritual relationship with their country. This relationship remains strong and important to the people today. The agencies responsible for producing theses guidelines recognise and respect the connection between Traditional Owners and their country. P (61) 02 6456 2722 F (61) 02 6456 2422 E [email protected]
2 GUIDELINES FOR TRAIL PLANNING, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT Contents
Introduction 4 PART B – DETAILED DESIGN GUIDELINES 39 What is a recreational trail? 4 What and who are these guidelines for? 4 Element 8 Trail classification and standards 40 Structure of these guidelines 5 8.1 Introduction 40 Steps in the trail planning and design process 6 8.2 Australian walking track grading system 40 Trail planning and design checklist 7 8.3 Cycling standards 40 8.4 Standards for rail trails 41 PART A – TRAIL PLANNING GUIDELINES 9 8.5 Standards for mountain bike trails 42
Element 1 Background and guiding principles 10 Element 9 Building successful trails 43 1.1 Why have recreational trails? 10 9.1 Introduction 43 1.2 Different types of trails 10 9.2 Trail systems 43 1.3 Understanding the principles for trail planning and 9.3 Single or shared‑use 43 management in Barwon South West 11 9.4 Designing sustainable trails 43 1.4 Different types of trail experiences 16 9.5 Maximum sustainable trail grades 44 9.6 Gathering information 45 Element 2 Legislation and policy 17 9.7 Identifying control points 45 2.1 Overview of planning framework 17 9.8 Sustainable trails follow the contours 45 2.2 Victoria’s Planning scheme 18 9.9 Grade reversals 45 2.3 Zones and overlays 18 9.10 Trail flow 46 2.4 Coastal public land 18 9.11 Trail surface 46 2.5 Native vegetation removal 18 9.12 Surface water control 46 2.6 Other relevant legislation 18 9.13 Watercourse crossings 47 9.14 Low lying and boggy terrain 47 Element 3 Trail concept and feasibility planning 21 9.15 Designing cycling paths 49 3.1 Introduction 21 9.16 Designing coastal trails 50 3.2 Preparing a trail project plan 21 9.17 Designing urban trails 50 3.3 Identify project partners 21 9.18 Managing user conflicts 51 3.4 Endorsement from local government and land managers 21 9.19 Other support facilities 51 3.5 Undertake community engagement 21 9.20 Toilets 52 3.6 Decision to proceed 22 9.21 Camping 52 3.7 Feasibility study 22 3.8 Leveraging funding and investment 23 Element 10 Maintaining successful trails 53 10.1 Introduction 53 Element 4 Management models 25 10.2 Trail management plan 53 4.1 Introduction 25 10.3 Hazard assessment 57 4.2 Partnership agreements 25 10.4 Plant diseases and weeds 57
Element 5 Marketing and branding 29 Element 11 Education and interpretation 58 5.1 Communication planning 29 11.1 Planning trail interpretation 58 5.2 Marketing to visitors 30 11.2 Producing interpretive panels 59 5.3 Marketing to locals 30 Element 12 Orientation and safety 60 Element 6 Community and stakeholder engagement 34 12.1 Using signs to communicate 60 6.1 Introduction 34 12.2 Sign systems 60 6.2 Planning your approach 34 12.3 Walking track classification and signage 60 12.4 Sign plans 61 Element 7 Monitoring and review 37 7.1 Introduction 37 Appendices 65 7.2 Recommended approach 37 References 74
GUIDELINES FOR TRAIL PLANNING, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT 3 Introduction
What is a What and who are recreational trail? these guidelines for? The Victorian Trails Strategy 2014-2024 While it is acknowledged that the The guidelines will be of particular defines a trail as “an established path, Barwon South West region has a strong interest and assistance to: route or track which often traverses and varied network of trails, there • parks and reserve managers natural areas and is used by people are many aspects of the existing trail (e.g., local councils and state for non-motorised recreation, such as system that can be improved through government departments) walking, running, cycling and mountain enhancements to trail design, better • trail builders including volunteer bike and horse riding”. linkages between trails and other groups community assets and attractions, In most cases, recreational trails are • trail managers consistent trail policy, management, used for non-motorised recreational • trail users marketing and support for on-going pursuits such as walking, cycling, • development of the network. clubs and associations that use trails horse riding, canoeing or scuba diving. • owners of land through which However, in some circumstances, Trail users are becoming more trails pass. trails can be designed for use by small discerning and have high expectations wheeled vehicles such as motorised about their trail experience, which wheelchairs to enable access for people means that quality infrastructure and with mobility impairments. services and marketing and promotion activities are becoming increasingly The Barwon South West region has a important and the user experience is mix of trails and mountain bike hubs and central to each element of trail design the landscapes and environments within and management. which these trails sit vary significantly. They include urban areas, native forests, These guidelines have been prepared pine plantations, areas of high rainfall, to provide a comprehensive and seasonal watercourses and rugged coordinated document to assist the coastlines. Importantly, the majority planning, development, construction, of trails are focused around areas of management, and promotion of environmental and cultural interest or regional trails in the Barwon South near major population centres. West Region. The trails are key attractions for domestic and international visitors and support healthy lifestyles of the region’s local communities.
4 GUIDELINES FOR TRAIL PLANNING, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT Structure of these guidelines These guidelines have been structured into 12 chapters. Part A. Trail Planning Guidelines Chapters 1 – 7 (Part A) provide a The planning guidelines contribute to the development of exceptional concise overview of trail categories trail experiences by assisting agencies, investors and groups to consider and types of users, and information on all aspects of trail planning at the initial concept stage including guiding the legislative and strategic planning principles, legislative and policy framework, feasibility assessment, community context for planning, developing and engagement, governance arrangements, marketing and branding as well as managing trails in Barwon South monitoring and review mechanisms. West region. These chapters ‘set the ELEMENT 1 – Background and guiding principles scene’ for the chapters 8 – 12 (Part B) which provide more specific detail and ELEMENT 2 – Legislation and policy guidance for new trail proposals and ELEMENT 3 – Trail concept and feasibility planning the maintenance of existing trails. ELEMENT 4 – Management models It is recognised that not all of the content within these guidelines will ELEMENT 5 – Marketing and branding be relevant for every new or existing ELEMENT 6 – Community and stakeholder engagement trail. Rather, it is intended that the reader will select what they need ELEMENT 7 – Monitoring and review from the information presented and seek additional information from the references provided. Part B. Detailed Design Guidelines The design guidelines build on the planning guidelines and provide advice on how to apply the relevant standards and design principles to develop, manage and maintain high quality trails. ELEMENT 8 – Trail classification and standards ELEMENT 9 – Building successful trails ELEMENT 10 – Maintaining successful trails ELEMENT 11 – Education and interpretation ELEMENT 12 – Orientation and safety
GUIDELINES FOR TRAIL PLANNING, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT 5 Steps in the trail planning and design process These guidelines have been developed around the trail planning and design process outlined in Figure 1. The trail planning and design checklist on the next page also provides a useful reference to ensure all steps are undertaken.
Figure 1: Trail Planning – A step by step process that can be applied to differing scale trail planning initiatives
PART A – TRAIL PLANNING
TRAIL IDEA CONCEPT DEVELOPMENT • Understand user needs • Establish user/stakholder reference group • Link to strategic business plans and policy • Identify trail values, project vision and trail signature • Identify partnerships and responsibilities • Identify category of trail • Estimate costs and who is to pay • Finalise project vision and trail classifications • Identify land management and approval process • Prepare concept plans and maps • Assess land and environmental suitability • Develop solid business case and feasibility • Explore and identify funding opportunities • Seek land managers agreement
PART B – DETAILED DESIGN
DETAILED DESIGN APPROVALS IMPLEMENTATION • Finalise trail grades and trail • Review feedback from consultation • Construction, public infrastructure requirements • Review costs, time and quality information and marketing • Develop whole of trail life plan against vision, budget and phase including maintenance project plan • Identify suitable project • Engage expertise of professional • Finalise lifecycle maintenance plan manager trail planner/designer • Confirm costings and • Engage competent • Flag the trail corridor on ground responsibilities for maintenance and highly skilled trail and GPS the planned route • Finalise implementation plan construction contractor, • staff or suitable volunteer Finalise trail branding, trail • Seek approving authority approval signature and marketing partnership depending on project scale • Develop monitoring program • Produce draft plan for consultation • Formalise approvals/permits risk assessment process
Engage users and stakeholders early – develop engagement plan – engage throughout planning and beyond
6 GUIDELINES FOR TRAIL PLANNING, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT Trail planning and design checklist The following checklist can be used for planning and constructing trails in Barwon South West Region. The content of these guidelines provide guidance under each of the major headings.
Checklist for trail planning, design and management for Barwon South West Region Tick P 1. Guiding Principles (Element 1) Ensure the trail is sustainable and user focused Identify the trail category and characteristics of the trail Define the user experience 2. Legislative and policy requirements (Element 2) Check legislative and strategic context of trail 3. Trail concept and feasibility planning (Elements 3–7) Identify the target market Undertake preliminary consultation with land manager, local council and relevant Government agencies Prepare a project plan Identify potential partners Assess the supply and demand for recreational trails in the area Seek ‘in-principle’ endorsement from land manager, local council and relevant Government agencies Undertake consultation with the community and users (Element 5) Decision to proceed with feasibility assessment Prepare Feasibility Study: Determine the need of the trail Identify likely patterns of usage and needs of user groups including infrastructure such as toilets etc Provide details of planning process including required approvals Identify connections and linkages to other trails, facilities and tourist attractions Identify partnerships, funding options and management model (Element 4) Estimate likely community support Address environmental matters Address cultural and heritage considerations Undertake on-ground assessment Prepare concept design Consider management and maintenance matters (Element 10) Estimate the likely cost of construction and ongoing management Identify funding opportunities and commercial partners (Element 4) Conclusion – is the trail feasible or not? Seek in principle approval from land managers and other relevant authorities 4. Detailed Design (Element 8 and 9) Determine the trail system – loop or linear? Confirm classification Confirm if single or shared use
GUIDELINES FOR TRAIL PLANNING, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT 7 Checklist for trail planning, design and management for Barwon South West Region Tick P Identify the route of the trail on a topographical map Determine the surface of the trail Follow the contours Ensure erosion control Avoid areas of environmental and cultural significance Consider safety issues (Element 12) Determine trail markers and information signage (Element 11 and 12) Consider other facilities such as toilets, shelters etc 5. Management and maintenance (Elements 7 and 10) Confirm partnership agreements Develop management plan and maintenance schedule (Element 10) Monitor and evaluate the trail (Element 7) 6. Marketing, communications and interpretation planning Prepare communications plan and marketing strategy (Element 5 and 6) Prepare interpretation plan (Element 11) Confirm signage system and develop signage plan (Elements 11 and 12) 7. Obtain Approvals Undertake environmental assessments as required Obtain formal approval from land manager / owner Obtain required development approvals from the local council Obtain necessary permits from government agencies
8 GUIDELINES FOR TRAIL PLANNING, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT PART A – Trail Planning Guidelines These guidelines contribute to the development of exceptional trail experiences by assisting agencies, investors and groups to consider all aspects of trail planning at the initial concept stage including guiding principles, legislative and policy framework, feasibility assessment, community engagement, governance arrangements, marketing and branding as well as monitoring and review mechanisms.
ELEMENT 1 ELEMENT 2 ELEMENT 3 ELEMENT 4 ELEMENT 5 ELEMENT 6 ELEMENT 7 Background Legislation Trail Management Marketing Community Monitoring and guiding and policy concept and models and and and review principles feasibility branding stakeholder planning engagement
PAGE 10 PAGE 16 PAGE 22 PAGE 27 PAGE 31 PAGE 36 PAGE 39
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Element 1 Background and guiding principles
1.1 Why have recreational trails. The main benefits • Health and fitness benefits – can be summarised as follows: improved health and physical recreational trails? • Community and social benefits – well-being for both individuals and The demand for recreational trails is providing opportunities for families communities, reduced health care growing. National physical activity and friends to enjoy time together costs, and enhanced productivity trends indicate that participation in and enhancing quality of life • Heritage and cultural benefits unstructured recreational activities • Economic benefits – increased – recognition and respect is increasing. Walking for exercise is tourism revenues, greater for Aboriginal culture and already the most popular recreational business investment and historical values activity in the region and cycling the enhanced property values • Transportation benefits – greener fourth most popular of fifty different • Educational benefits – providing transportation and commuting use recreational activities. an outdoor classroom for nature, of trails contributing to reduced greenhouse gas emissions and Recreational trails offer a diverse range culture and history • improved health and wellness of benefits to our communities and the Environment benefits – enhanced environmental awareness, improved of individuals.
PART A – Trail Planning Guidelines A – Trail PART environment. Social health, physical fitness, environmental management understanding of our natural and awareness, cultural preservation heritage, and stewardship of the and the economy can all benefit from environment the effects and experiences offered by
Further information – Benefits of Recreational Trails Trails contribute to community health and wellbeing by improving the liveability of communities and attracting visitors. They are also recognised for providing opportunities for significant economic, business, employment and tourism growth. Follow the links for more information: http://www.ausport.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0018/436122/ERASS_Report_2010.PDF http://www.transport.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0011/83981/Cycling-strategy-Cycling-into-the-Future-Dec-2012.pdf http://www.tourism-intelligence.co.uk/intelligence-guides
1.2 Different types of trails The Victorian Trails Strategy 2014–20241 seeks to develop a number of well-developed trails and tourism products that will be sufficiently competitive to attract the interest of international and domestic markets and provide benefits for communities. This means that the trails need to be carefully planned to meet the expectation of consumers or users. The strategy establishes three categories for trails based on their significance as (i) local/regional (ii) state or (iii) national/international trails (refer Table 1). The trail categories are determined by characteristics that focus on the trail’s ability to demonstrate sustainability, experiential quality, attraction to visitors, generation of economic benefits and contribution to the lifestyle, health and social well-being of Victorians. The consumer expectations and infrastructure requirements associated with each trail category are described in Table 2 together with the standards prescribed by the Australian Walking Track Grading System (refer Element 8).
1 State of Victoria 2014, Victorian Trails Strategy 2014–2024
10 GUIDELINES FOR TRAIL PLANNING, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT ELEMENT 1 ELEMENT 2 ELEMENT 3 ELEMENT 4 ELEMENT 5 ELEMENT 6 ELEMENT 7 Background Legislation Trail Management Marketing Community Monitoring and guiding and policy concept and models and and and review principles feasibility branding stakeholder planning engagement ELEMENT 1 – Background and guiding principles guiding and 1 – Background ELEMENT 1.3 Understanding The development of our trails must also Accessibility is determined by: take into account the sensitivities and • proximity to local communities and the principles for desires of our local communities. visitor attractions trail planning and A strong focus on engagement • proximity and linkages to transport management in is essential – trail users and the facilities such as railway stations or Barwon South local community are central to trail road network providing access to development. A strategic and planned the trail West approach to engagement will enable • existing or proposed linkages to other trails and the wider trails network Prior to the consideration of a new trails effective debate and collaboration and initiative – either improving an existing generate trust, goodwill and contribute • proximity to natural attractions such trail or constructing a new one – it is to ongoing support. as scenic views, native vegetation, waterfalls, lakes, coastline, etc. important to ensure that the proposal In order to achieve a network of • is both sustainable and accessible. sustainable trails, it may be necessary presence of existing facilities that Adherence to these two ‘guiding to review the location, design, may support or facilitate use of principles’ will assist in attracting management and use of existing trails the trail such as car parks, toilets, a desired user group, minimise the prior to the consideration of new trail picnic facilities, camping sites, tourist likelihood of environmental damage and projects. information centres, cafés, tour maximise opportunities for funding. operators, etc. Accessible and user The visitor experience is central to trail Sustainable focussed design and trails should be designed for It is fundamentally important that target markets on each trail. Consumer Intertwined with the objective of trails are socially, economically and expectations need to match the realities sustainability is the need for trails environmentally sustainable. It is of defined trail categories, with trail to be accessible and user focussed. vital, therefore, that high quality design being appropriate for the Trail development should commence recreational experiences are developed expected volume of users and planned with the end product in mind and in landscapes that are capable of to protect trail and environmental values. with a focus on developing trails that supporting them. The conservation are usable by as many participants Proposals for new trails, or upgrades and enhancement of natural areas, as possible and incorporating the to existing trails, should clearly protection of biodiversity and raising principles of Universal Design (refer demonstrate that they meet at least environmental awareness should Critical Trail Tip 1 and Appendix 1). half of the accessibility determinants underpin the development of the trail expressed above. This will assist in the network. This can be achieved through promotion of the trail to prospective appropriate trail design, location users and local businesses and ensure selection and ongoing management. that any associated economic and Trails must also be economically and social benefits are shared amongst socially sustainable. our communities.
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Critical Trail Tip 1 – Universal Design Principles Universal Design allows everyone, to the greatest extent possible, and regardless of age or disability, to use buildings, environments and services without the need for specialised or adapted features. It helps to provide more inclusive environments than relying on minimum standards prescribed in codes and standards. Trail planning and design should aim to incorporate the Universal Design Principles as much as possible. The level to which these principles can be incorporated should be considered in the context of physical setting of the trail and the experience being offered. The Universal Design Principles are: • Equitable use (Be Fair) – the design does not disadvantage or stigmatise any group of users • Flexibility in use (Be Included) – the design accommodates a wide range of individual presences and abilities • Simple and intuitive use (Be Smart) – use of the design is easy to understand, regardless of the user’s experience, knowledge, language skills, or current concentration level • Perceptible Information (Be Independent) – the design communicates necessary information effectively to the user, regardless of ambient conditions or the user’s sensory abilities PART A – Trail Planning Guidelines A – Trail PART • Tolerance for error (Be Safe) – the design minimises hazards and the adverse consequences do accidental or unintended actions • Low Physical effort (Be Active) – the design can be used efficiently and comfortably, and with a minimum of fatigue • Size and Space for Approach and use (Be Comfortable) – appropriate size and space is provided for approach/ reach/ manipulation, and use, regardless of the user’s body size, posture, or mobility For more information go to: www.universaldesign.com Adapted from 1997 NC State University, The Seven Principles of Universal Design
12 GUIDELINES FOR TRAIL PLANNING, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT ELEMENT 1 ELEMENT 2 ELEMENT 3 ELEMENT 4 ELEMENT 5 ELEMENT 6 ELEMENT 7 Background Legislation Trail Management Marketing Community Monitoring and guiding and policy concept and models and and and review principles feasibility branding stakeholder planning engagement
Table 1: Characteristics and attributes of trail categories2 principles guiding and 1 – Background ELEMENT
Type of Trail Attributes
International and national significant trails
• World-class trail experiences located within the natural • Exemplars of the competitive strengths of Victoria and and cultural landscapes of Victoria, with the highest Australia as a trail destination. standard of management and promotion. • Uniquely representative of Victoria’s natural and cultural • Support high yield trail-based tourism products landscape values. including accommodation. • High priority government support at the State level • Destinations in their own right, attracting international for trail development and management and listed as a and interstate visitors. priority within State plans and strategies. • May include major trail hubs that attract high • Support viable high yield trail-based accommodation and international and interstate use, high level competitions associated products and services. and events. • Higher levels of interstate visitation than State significant trails (see description below) and significant international visitation interest and appeal. • Directly and indirectly provide economic benefits to the State.
State significant trails
• Significant trail experiences, representative of Victoria’s • Representative of the region’s and/or Victoria’s natural varied landscapes, with a high standard of management and cultural landscapes. and promotion. • Government support at a regional level within regional • Support a range of trail-based products and a motivator plans and strategies. for intrastate and interstate visitation. • Support viable trail-based and associated regional tourism • May attract some international visitors. products, services and programs. • May include some major trail hubs and may attract high • Significant intrastate and interstate visitation, interest level competitions and events. and appeal. • Directly or indirectly provide economic benefits to a region and/or the State.
Regional and local significant trails
• Regional and local trails and facilities used regularly by • Many are located within close proximity to residential regional and local residents for recreation, transport, areas, and are often connected to community services health and wellbeing. and open space areas. • May attract some regional and intrastate visitors primarily • Representative of the region’s natural and for independent trail-based recreation activities. cultural landscapes. • May include some local trail hubs. • Provide access to a diversity of trails of varying difficulty, length and type. • Provide opportunities for different trail-user groups for active recreation, health and wellbeing. • Be recognised by local residents as a popular trail and/ or trail network and frequented by people from the surrounding region.
2 State of Victoria 2014, Victorian Trails Strategy 2014–2024
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Table 2: Consumer expectations and infrastructure requirements of Victorian international, domestic, intrastate and local community trails Essential components P Optional components O
Consumer expectations International/ Regional (Variety, challenge National State and local Trail planning and sustainability) Trails Trails trails considerations Trail infrastructure elements
Spectacular settings P P O Identify and Present experiences that are world and encounters with protect unique class, protect values and sustainably wildlife settings connect visitors with unique and wildlife experiences encounters
Showcase Australian P P O Connect with Provide exciting view and
PART A – Trail Planning Guidelines A – Trail PART unique nature, nature, culture observation opportunities whilst culture and and landscape protecting landscape, environmental landscape and maximise the and cultural values through risk trail’s wow factor assessment and innovative trail design using positive trail control points
Nature based P O O Integrate Retain strong and sustainable adventure excitement, fun connections with nature through experience and a sense of enjoyable and challenging wildness into the experiences on all trails and trail experience ensure user comfort and safety corresponding to trail grade
Step on and step off P O O Provide Link stepping off opportunity with opportunity opportunity towns, accommodation, transport, to leave and trail hubs and visitor experiences connect with long including side trips distance trail at sites that enhance experience
Information – web P P O Provide Web site information to include site access high quality trail maps, trail history, features, information on amenities, facilities at various sites, trails via web sites safety and etiquette tips which should include incident warning information (e.g. bushfires)
Maps, guides and P P O Key information Web sites, access through phones on site information for trail users on and through a range of on-site site and through information at trail heads, trails web sites section signs and at sites. Level of information should correspond to trail grade
Accessibility through P P O Cater for variety Trail head and step on and off points tourism providers of trail user types are planned to link in with tourism and promotion operators, accommodations, visitor of tourism sites and public transport opportunity
14 GUIDELINES FOR TRAIL PLANNING, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT ELEMENT 1 ELEMENT 2 ELEMENT 3 ELEMENT 4 ELEMENT 5 ELEMENT 6 ELEMENT 7 Background Legislation Trail Management Marketing Community Monitoring and guiding and policy concept and models and and and review principles feasibility branding stakeholder planning engagement ELEMENT 1 – Background and guiding principles guiding and 1 – Background ELEMENT Consumer expectations International/ Regional (Variety, challenge National State and local Trail planning and sustainability) Trails Trails trails considerations Trail infrastructure elements
Accessible transport P P P To promote Consider transport links, suitable and vehicle parking equity, healthy parking and consideration of local communities residents views and connecting to nature ensure access to public transport where possible
Proximity of local O O P Ensure ease Trail head placement at appropriate and regional trails of access and stepping on and off point for for local users ensure user local users with consideration for considerations to current and future parking and maximize use access requirements and impacts on neighbours
Accommodation P P O Link range to trail A range of accommodation linked and associated users needs and to users requirements, on and off products and accessibility trail and linked to existing and future services transport and business opportunities
Sustainable and low P P P Protecting trail Sustainable trail principles through environmental and and community appropriate design, use of control cultural impact values while points, good construction linked encouraging to ongoing maintenance. Ensure travel through the enjoyable and challenging experiences landscape on all trails linked to trail grades
Trail based events O O O Encourage Events should reflect trail objectives and enable and trail infrastructure should sustainable event be planned for future use, trend opportunities that changes and consideration of land promote trails management legislations and policy values
Short walk P P P Options for short Plan to enable short walks to component walk components be taken on day or multi day of significant trails walks, consider access points and opportunity to include people with disabilities including wheelchairs linked to trail grades
Day walks P P O Important Design to accommodate variety of component of users and develop trail according trail mix providing to agreed trail grade and clearly enjoyable and informing users of trail class and challenging expectations experiences
Multi Day walks P O O Can be the most Critical planning and design challenging and ensures challenge, reward and rewarding with connection with landscape, strong opportunity to focus on appropriate trail grades, engage with consideration of accommodation wild areas and types and strong links to landscapes partnerships and industry providers
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1.4 Different types of Running • All Mountain/Trail Riders combine cross country and downhill terrain. trail experiences Runners like to use a variety of trails These riders are now the largest ranging from urban, hard paved trails Following consideration of the type segment of the MTB enthusiast to more challenging experiences in rural of trail proposed (local, regional or market both in terms of bike sales areas often associated with hills. Trail national) together with an assessment and riding numbers. running has grown in popularity and against the ‘guiding principles’ of includes activities such as orienteering sustainability and accessibility, it is Horse Riding and rogaining. necessary to think about the type Horse riders can be divided into a of recreational users who will be attracted to the trail and the type of Cycling number of sub-groups: trail experience it will offer. The types of • Recreational or ‘weekender’ riders users will strongly influence the design Cycle Touring who exercise their horses and ride in attractive rural settings for a few of the trail in terms of width, materials, Cycle touring involves road and off-road hours to a day-long ride. slope, degree of difficulty and linkages riding. It includes day and overnight PART A – Trail Planning Guidelines A – Trail PART to other attractions and services. trips undertaken by local riders and • Endurance riders undertake competitive rides and like very large Trails can be designed to accommodate a intrastate, interstate and international circuits to train on but events are broad range of user groups with varying visitors. The focus is on cycling that usually held on temporary loops. interests and needs or, alternatively, for draws visitors away from home to • a small sector only. Proponents of trails start and finish. It involves using a car Long distance riders are generally should carefully consider the range of or other transport to take bikes to a non-competitive riders who often users envisaged and then design the trail destination for riding. It includes riding travel long distances along linear and experience accordingly. Potential for fun, exercise, social occasions, trails or on daily loops of up to experiences may include: challenge, events, training, and to 30 kilometres from a base. Their trail explore a region3. experience can range from overnight Walking to rides that last a number of weeks. Mountain Biking A ‘walker’ broadly describes anyone Water based activity who travels by foot on recreational Similar to walkers, there is a range of trails. Walking includes all forms of sub-groups that sit under the broad A variety of water based trails suited to recreational walking and experiences heading of mountain bike riders: canoeists, kayakers, snorkellers, scuba from a leisurely stroll in the local park • Family, occasional or beginner divers provide experiences which can be to strenuous treks across rugged mountain bike riders who generally stand-alone water based or they can be terrain. Walking may also involve seek short loops on fairly level terrain, complemented by land based trails as a exercising dogs, nature appreciation or with some challenges to introduce walker or rider. The path of the water, overnight stays. them to off-road cycling its inherent features and the surrounding • Cross-country riders that seek environment guide these types of trail Walkers use both urban and rural moderate to very challenging terrain, users. In some locations, land managers trails. Urban walkers use trails within often on single track trails and like to may provide direction, interpretive suburban reserves, linear parks and get away from busy trails to areas of and safety information signs. Access along transport corridors, the majority more solitude. points, including boat ramps, secure car of these types of walkers use trails for • parking, campsites accessible by water fitness and social reasons. Downhill riders or downhillers who seek steep challenging terrain and only, require due consideration when 4 Walkers in rural areas often seek a obstacles that appear unusable to formalising water based trails . variety of trail experiences including outsiders. These riders are generally more challenging trails that visit supported by an uplift service such as interesting natural features. They may a shuttle service or chair lift. be self-sufficient and carry adequate clothing, food and water for sustained and demanding walks. As fitness and expertise increase, these walkers often seek experiences in more remote and 3 TRC 2014 Barwon South West Cycle difficult terrain. Tourism Strategy 4 Recreation and Sport SA 2007
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Element 2 Legislation and policy policy and 2 – Legislation ELEMENT 2.1 Overview Figure 2: Planning hierarchy in Barwon South West Region of planning framework STATE LEVEL: All state and local governments and delegated land managers must act in STRATEGIC PLANS LEGISLATION a manner consistent with legislation, • Planning Strategy • Planning and Environment Act 1987 regulations and local laws. These will • Tourism Strategy • Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 affect the planning, development, • Tourism Action Plan • Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994 use, management and maintenance • Trails Strategy • Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006 of proposed and existing trails. The • Cycling Strategy • National Parks Act 1975 regulatory framework will influence the • Sport and Recreation • Environment Protection and Biodiversity location, construction and ownership as Conservation Act 1999 (Commonwealth) well as the ongoing management and maintenance of trails. Trail development and maintenance REGIONAL LEVEL is a significant investment. Successful and sustainable trails require clarity and certainty in the pre-planning phase as to STRATEGIC PLANS LEGISLATION who is responsible for what, particularly • Regional Strategies – • Planning scheme provisions in the case of multi-tenured trails. G21 & Great South Coast • Catchment Management Plans In the pre-planning phase for trails the • Victorian Coastal Strategy distribution of responsibilities, ongoing resourcing, maintenance, safety and liability arrangements at local, state and national level must be agreed to and LOCAL LEVEL confirmed by all parties. A significant responsibility of trail managers is to review and, where applicable, STRATEGIC PLANS LEGISLATION apply or comply with legislation and • Strategic Management Plans • Planning scheme provisions government policy. • Trail Strategies • Local laws • Recreation and Open Space Plans Figure 2 illustrates the hierarchy • Tourism and economic strategies and interaction between the levels of government, its various strategic plans and the legislation relevant to trail proposals. A more comprehensive description of potential triggers, relevant legislation and policy, responsible agencies and web site links is provided in Appendix 2.
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2.2 Victoria’s Planning Conservation and Resource Zone vegetation) under Clause 52.17. All (PCRZ) or Public Park and Recreation permit applications that include native scheme Zone (PPRZ). It is not unusual for vegetation removal are assessed against In Victoria, the Planning and Crown land regulated by one of the Native Vegetation Framework. Environment Act 1987 controls land the “public land zones” to also be The Native Vegetation Framework aims use and development activities within a regulated by one or more overlays. The to achieve a net gain in extent and municipality through the local planning requirements of these overlays also quality of native vegetation through: schemes. Local planning schemes need to be considered in addition to avoiding impacts, minimising removal, contain state and local planning any requirements under a zone. and providing for vegetation offsets through compensatory planting. policies, zones and overlays and other Land, including Crown land, may also provisions that determine how land can be subject to a planning overlay which Native vegetation removals are be used and developed. Any new use may relate to such things as bushfire administered by the Victorian or development must comply with the management, matters of environmental Government. It is reasonable that any relevant planning scheme. significance, erosion management, proponent will require practical advice significant landscapes, heritage or and feedback as to how to meet native
PART A – Trail Planning Guidelines A – Trail PART A copy of every planning scheme in Victoria is available at: vegetation which may impose permit vegetation requirements (including www.dtpli.vic.gov.au and search for requirements and conditions over offset metrics) to the satisfaction of the ‘planning schemes’. and above zoning and other planning public land manager. scheme controls. A useful planning resource can be found at: www.dtpli.vic.gov.au and search for 2.6 Other relevant ‘a guide to the planning system. 2.4 Coastal public legislation Town planners in each local council land can also provide information on the On coastal public land the Victorian Flora and Fauna Guarantee policy and planning relevant controls Coastal Strategy 2008 and the Siting Act 1988 to the area. and Design Guidelines for Structures The Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act on the Victorian Coast will apply. 1988 provides for the protection and Further information can be found on 2.3 Zones and conservation of listed State significant the Victorian Coastal Council website: threatened native flora, fauna and overlays www.vcc.vic.gov.au and on the DTPLI ecological communities from potentially website: www.dtpli.vic.gov.au and Broadly, planning ‘zones’ and ‘overlays’ threatening processes. Protected areas search for ‘coastal planning’. contained in the planning scheme such as national parks provide key zones contain a purpose statement habitat for threatened communities. and a set of requirements about the 2.5 Native vegetation use and development of land. This A suite of Victorian Government information will indicate if a planning removal policies, regulations and programs permit is required and the matters that Local planning schemes contain address how native vegetation is to the Responsible Authority (normally the provisions to ensure that the permitted be considered. These ensure that council) must consider before deciding clearing of native vegetation results in maintaining biodiversity is a primary whether to grant a permit. no net loss in the contribution made consideration in decisions about by native vegetation to Victoria’s whether to permit the removal of native There are specific “public land zones” biodiversity. Native vegetation controls vegetation. Where clearing is permitted which are used to regulate Crown must also be considered in the context the objective is no net loss in the land. The land includes national parks, of bushfire response and emergency contribution made by native vegetation state forests, coastal crown land management. to Victoria’s biodiversity. The current and land reserved under the Crown native vegetation guidelines, Land (Reserves) Act 1978. By and A planning permit is required to remove biodiversity information tools and large, national parks are zoned Public native vegetation (including dead regulatory documents are available at: www.dse.vic.gov.au/land-management/ land/nativevegetation-home
18 GUIDELINES FOR TRAIL PLANNING, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT ELEMENT 1 ELEMENT 2 ELEMENT 3 ELEMENT 4 ELEMENT 5 ELEMENT 6 ELEMENT 7 Background Legislation Trail Management Marketing Community Monitoring and guiding and policy concept and models and and and review principles feasibility branding stakeholder planning engagement
Environmental Effects policy and 2 – Legislation ELEMENT Act 1978 Critical Trail Tip 2 – Planning approvals • All planning approvals for all sectors of a trail project should be obtained The Environmental Effects Act 1978 prior to construction commencing. Planning and approvals process can provides for the referral and, if be lengthy and sometimes the level of information required can appear necessary, assessment of projects that frustrating and be costly. However, such approvals are essential when have the potential to have a significant considering agency responsibilities and long-term trail management effect on the environment. When responsibilities. the preparation of an Environmental • It is not recommended seeking approvals for a trail on a stage-by-stage Effects Statement (assessment) is basis as this cannot guarantee that the full length of the trail can adhere to required under the Act, the Minister for the relevant approvals and planning controls. Planning’s assessment of the project • There are different types of approvals required, including from local, informs and guides other statutory state and federal Governments. Each land owner or manager may be approval decisions. subject to different approvals and controls relevant to their land. Early engagement with the local planning authority to understand the scope of Victorian Aboriginal approvals required is essential. Especially where tails are proposed through Heritage environmentally sensitive areas or potentially hazardous areas such as within or across railway corridors. The Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006 provides for the protection and management of Victorian Aboriginal cultural heritage, and has processes linked to the planning scheme. The Act sets out requirements to manage activities on land that may harm Aboriginal cultural heritage. Further information on Aboriginal Heritage: Office of Aboriginal Affairs www.dpc. vic.gov.au/index.php/aboriginal-affairs/ aboriginal-affairs-overview
Matters of national environmental significance The Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Commonwealth) provides for the protection of the environment, especially matters of national environmental significance. Guidance on matters of national environmental significance and when a referral and potential approval under the Act is required is provided in the Matters of National Environmental Significance, Significant Impact Guidelines, issued by the Commonwealth in 2009. These can be found on the website: www.environment.gov.au/epbc/ publications/nes-guidelines
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Trail planning and works that may trigger legislation, policy or agreement or require appropriate Government involvement – For more information see Appendix 2.
Trail Activity Commonwealth Victorian Local Environmental Government Government Protection
Planning on or near areas of environmental significance protected P under EPBC Act
Alignment on Commonwealth land P
Activities and events on or near areas of environmental P P P significance
Removal of vegetation for trail construction or maintenance P P
Planning or development on Crown or public lands P P P PART A – Trail Planning Guidelines A – Trail PART Planning or development on Aboriginal traditional lands P
Construction where there is potential for disturbance to cultural P heritage sites or items
Infrastructure development construction where actions could P affect Native Title
Infrastructure development and construction where actions could P affect or require Local Government services
Responsibility of trail managers in relation to management of land P P and catchments
Planning or undertaking trail works in the vicinity of waterways P P
Planning or undertaking trail works in the vicinity of the coast P P
Planning and undertaking works within land incorporated within P P Local Planning Schemes
Useful references
Strategy and Policy The Victorian Trails Strategy 2014-2024 and Victoria’s Regional Tourism Strategy 2013-2016 provide the policy and strategic direction for trails within Victoria. The Barwon South West Regional Trails Master Plan (2009) and Barwon South West Regional Trails Strategy (2014) are useful references for the development of trail experience in Barwon South West Region. For more information go to http://www.tourism.vic.gov.au/about/strategies-and-publications.html http://www.colacotway.vic.gov.au/Page/page.asp?Page_Id=2668&h=1
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Element 3 Trail concept and feasibility planning ELEMENT 3 – Trail concept and feasibility planning 3 – Trail feasibility and concept ELEMENT 3.1 Introduction are keen for the trail project to proceed 3.5 Undertake and should include land managers, Comprehensive trail planning will seek to user groups, local or regional tourism community ensure that the trail is sustainable from an organisations, representatives of local engagement environmental, social and economic point businesses and potential investors. of view from the outset (refer Element 1). Wide representation will result in more It is best to involve the community effective and successful trail planning and interested stakeholders as early 3.2 Preparing a trail and greater community ownership of as possible in the trail planning stage. the final project. The investment of time and energy in project plan community consultation is necessary During this early planning stage, it to develop community support and Following consideration of the trail is vitally important that the working ownership of the project. Ideally the planning principles and the legislative group clearly identify the intended project plan will have identified a and policy context, the next step in the users of the trail and test whether consultation strategy to inform and process is to prepare a clear project the proposal will meet their needs. involve the community. Element 6 plan so that the trail project is properly Specifically, the group should seek provides more information about scoped. The project plan should cover answers to the following questions: community engagement. the following areas: • the need for the trail from a social, • the background and perceived need environmental and economic for the trail perspective Critical Trail Tip 3 – • the overall trail purpose, aims and • support given to the trail proposal objectives by local, regional and state Review existing trail • description of the trail strategic plans provision in the region • any potential partners for • any issues that neighbouring Prior to the development of a trail development of the trail (government property owners may have with the project, try to get a comprehensive or private sector) proposal and mechanisms to resolve picture of other trails in the area. • those issues the intended user groups One of the first questions that • • community engagement and any up-front financial contributions Council, land managers and State that may be requested from local and opportunities for involvement in Government officials will ask is state government agencies management of the trail “Is there demand for this trail?” • • any background studies or reports the ongoing cost of the proposal Without any credible evidence to in relation to maintenance relating to the proposed trail or suggest that a new trail is needed and management. location and will be used, it is unlikely that it • the estimated cost, timing and staging If there is some doubt about the will be supported. of the development of the trail ability of the proposed trail to clearly • This step may identify a number any potential agency or community address these matters, the merits of support that may be available the proposal should be reconsidered. of underutilised or run-down trails • roles and responsibilities already in the area that could be of organisations involved improved at a much lower cost than in the project and project 3.4 Endorsement the construction of a new trail. governance arrangements. from local Ongoing maintenance is a critical government and component. Part of the assessment 3.3 Identify project land managers of viability is to clearly establish partners what agency or organisation is While a representative of the local responsible for the upkeep of At this stage it is important to establish Council may have been involved in the trail, a realistic assessment of a project working group or steering preliminary discussions about the trail life cycle maintenance resources committee to help manage and project, it is important that formal required and opportunities for coordinate the trail planning process. endorsement be given. The Council’s maintenance partnerships and The group should be based on the endorsement could include a resolution revenue generation to offset agreed project governance structure of support for the project, or take maintenance costs. with a clear understanding of the the form of a broader agreement purpose of the group. It should provide concerning the development and a focal point for key individuals who maintenance of the trail.
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3.6 Decision to Has the local Council and/or land 9. Cultural and heritage manager given their endorsement considerations: How will the project proceed for the project? What approvals are recognise and reflect any Aboriginal A decision on whether or not to necessary? Have they been granted and other local cultural and proceed further with the trail proposal or are there barriers that may heritage factors? including the expenditure of more complicate the approval process? 10. Trail access and trail sharing time, energy and money on a feasibility 4. Connections: How will the opportunities: Does the project study should be made at this point. In project provide linkages between accommodate a range of trail users addition, the option of abandoning towns or community facilities, (e.g. walking, cycling, horse riding, the proposal in favour of upgrading other trails, as well as areas of people with mobility impairments an existing trail before deciding upon natural, cultural, historical, or and educational purposes)? How developing a new trail should also recreational significance? will the different users share be considered. 5. Partnerships: How will the project the trail? demonstrate cooperation or 11. On ground assessment: Has a partnerships between trail users, preliminary assessment been made
PART A – Trail Planning Guidelines A – Trail PART 3.7 Feasibility study trail groups, private interests within in relation to the ‘on ground’ A well-researched feasibility study the area and public agencies? What conditions? Have constraints and should be prepared in order to attract type of funding has been secured? opportunities been identified and investment and other support for the Has ‘in-kind’ labour or other the proposed corridor identified trail proposal. A feasibility study will support been secured? in accordance with sustainable refine the concept of the trail and trail design principles outlined in then test that concept to determine 6. Management and maintenance Chapter 9? if it will ‘perform’ both practically planning: How will the trail be and financially. Ideally the feasibility managed and maintained and what 12. Concept design: What are the study should be prepared by people is the management model for the physical specifications of the trail: with skills in economics, recreation trail as outlined in Chapter 4. Who length, width, surface materials, or tourism planning, engineering and will undertake and pay for ongoing drainage, trail heads, interpretive landscape architecture. operation and maintenance costs? signage and trail markers? What How will the trail be monitored to are the required standards The elements that should be included measure benefits? of construction? in a trail feasibility study will depend on 7. Community input and support: Can 13. Capital Cost: What is the expected the size and scale of the project, but the project demonstrate that it has capital cost for the construction the following topic headings can be support from the local community, of the trail project? How will the used as a guide: trail user groups, community construction of the trail be funded? 1. Introduction and background: How leaders, service organisations, 14. Funding: What funding did the project come about? What recreation and environmental opportunities are available? Can is the proposed location? What groups, schools, commercial ‘in-kind’ support be provided from type of recreational user is the trail tourism businesses and other community organisations? Does the designed for? non-Government groups? What project satisfy the requirements of 2. Supply and demand: Is there a methods have been used to gain the funding organisations? demonstrable need for this trail? knowledge of this support? 15. Conclusion: Why should the project Are there other trails in the Barwon 8. Environmental matters: How will the proceed? What are the strengths South West region which may project protect and improve areas and weaknesses of the project? be more appropriate or could be of environmental significance? How What is required for the project upgraded to meet the demand? will it contribute to an improved to proceed? 3. Planning process: Has the project knowledge of the environment and been identified as a priority in what interpretive material will the any recreational plan, open space project provide? strategy plan or any other local/ regional/ state strategic plan?
22 GUIDELINES FOR TRAIL PLANNING, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT ELEMENT 1 ELEMENT 2 ELEMENT 3 ELEMENT 4 ELEMENT 5 ELEMENT 6 ELEMENT 7 Background Legislation Trail Management Marketing Community Monitoring and guiding and policy concept and models and and and review principles feasibility branding stakeholder planning engagement ELEMENT 3 – Trail concept and feasibility planning 3 – Trail feasibility and concept ELEMENT 3.8 Leveraging an investment strategy may focus on from each government department applying for three or four different and, therefore, improve the chances funding and grants from government departments, of success. together with assistance from the local investment Some of the funding options suited to Council and in-kind support from the Investment in trails can be sought from different trails are indicated below community, local businesses and user a number of sources. (PPP = highly suitable and potential for groups. Such an approach will reduce major contribution, P = least suitable/ Potential avenues include: the amount of money requested minor contribution, O = unlikely): • Federal, state and local government agencies that often have a core responsibility for trails developed Community for tourism recreation, health and trails for Mountain wellbeing Iconic trails recreation, bike parks with strong health, (urban, • Community organisations that are tourism wellbeing, resort-based Rail important partners to local and Funding Source component civic amenity or rural) Trails state governments and have a Land manager/ proven reputation for being able to PPP PP PP PPP attract grant funding, sponsorship government funds and membership fees for trail Grants direct to PPP PP PP PPP development and maintenance but agency most do not have the capacity to provide total maintenance – typically, Grants via a trails trust, incorporated the land manager(s) still need to play society, foundation PPP PP PP a role. in partnership with It should be noted that investment land management agency in capital development and major upgrades/extensions is easier to obtain Philanthropic PP PP PP PP than ongoing operational funds. The donations costs of ongoing maintenance and replacement of trail infrastructure (e.g. Sponsorship P PP PP P bridges, signs) are often underestimated Fee for use PPP O PP or, in the case or infrastructure Camping fee replacement, often ignored until failure. PPP P O O As part of the budget considerations contribution the useful life and replacement of PPP Commercial structures needs to be considered. (having State, tour operator PPP O National or PP While sourcing funding for the contribution for International trail use construction and ongoing maintenance significance) for the trail may seem a daunting Information sales prospect the best approach is to PPP O P P develop an investment strategy based (guide book) on a mixture of available grants, in-kind Merchandise PPP O O P support and other funding sources such as revenue from user fees or camping fees where possible. For example,
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It is also useful to break the project into stages such as; feasibility study; Active in Parks – A Healthy Parks concept design; and construction. It may also be possible to stage the Healthy People program construction of the trail over a number Active in Parks is the flagship program of the People and Parks Foundation. of years. In this way, an initially large Piloted between 2011 and 2013, with the support of the Medibank cost can be broken down into smaller Community Fund, Parks Victoria and Barwon Medicare Local, the programs’ ‘bite-size’ chunks which may be more initial goal was to get Barwon residents healthy active and outdoors. This palatable to funding agencies. Staging program has now expanded across Australia and grants are available to a project will also reduce the level support local councils and community groups help their residents get active. of perceived risk associated with the For more information go www.activeinparks.org project as each stage will only proceed once the previous stage has been successfully completed. When seeking investment, it is PART A – Trail Planning Guidelines A – Trail PART important to consider the range of possible grants that might be suitable. Given the close link trails have with the health and tourism and the natural environment, funding from these agencies at a local, regional, state and federal level are becoming more and more common. When preparing an investment strategy and when writing applications for grants, it is very important that consideration be given to the strategic objectives of the relevant government department. The application should clearly articulate how the project will help the department to further its goals and, ideally, should demonstrate links to relevant strategic plans. It is useful to consult with government representatives responsible for allocating funding and involving peak user group(s) at this stage to understand the assessment process In addition to the potential sources of funding described in this section, many alternative grants which should be considered can be found at the following websites http://www.grantslink.gov.au http://www.vic.gov.au/grants.html
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Element 4 Management models ELEMENT 4 – Management models 4 – Management ELEMENT 4.1 Introduction Trail projects inevitably involve a 4.2 Partnership range of partners regardless of A trail management regime needs to the management model. These agreements be considered and established as part could include: It is crucial to establish the different of investment strategy (refer Element • Local government (if not already roles and responsibilities involved in 3). Too often, the management model the primary land manager) the trail where there is more than one is decided towards the end of building • state or federal government manager. An agreement should be a new trail or when an existing trail departments drafted which: becomes too much of a financial • conservation and environmental • identifies the tasks likely to be burden and things have to change. groups: both state and local involved in the future management There is no one model that fits every • other user groups or potential user of the trail situation. The ultimate test of whether groups, including ‘peak bodies’ • identifies the capabilities and the management regime is working • education institutions, including capacities of each group (specific or not lies in its sustainability. If the local schools or universities skills, construction assistance, trail experience being provided is not • training agencies administration time, fund being compromised through lack of management, etc.) • volunteer groups (Service clubs, funding or organisational, commercial Green Army, Conservation • identifies constraints and and community engagement, then Volunteers Australia) limitations involved (lack of skills, it is probably sustainable. A range of resource shortages, statutory • Seniors groups models may suit different trail scenarios responsibilities, etc.) (refer Table 3) and each model has its • health agencies (Active in Parks, • identifies roles (such as tool the Heart Foundation) advantages and disadvantages (refer manager; maintenance coordinator; Table 4). brochure distributor, etc.) • identifies how ‘gaps’ are going to be filled.
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Table 3: Examples of Management Models
Scenarios where this could Model Features Examples be applied
Agency sole One or more federal or state • Great Ocean Walk Mostly public land in remote location managed government agencies, or local • Warrnambool Limited capacity or interest from authority manages the trail Foreshore exclusively. Commercial licenses volunteers, user groups or local for guided tours, accommodation • Geelong Waterfront community or other services may or may • Overland Track Could be a pioneering development not be provided. Ultimate • Larapinta Trail project where government takes the responsibility lies with the risk and lays the enabling infrastructure • All New Zealand Great management agency. These trails for other parties to invest over time are typically all on public land Walks although small sections of private Complex destination where competing land are sometimes involved land uses could jeopardise the recreation opportunity, hence need PART A – Trail Planning Guidelines A – Trail PART through easements over title. Little or no volunteer involvement. for strong, executive decision-making powers to protect recreation and open space values
Partnerships Multiple variations exist including • Bellarine Rail Trail Capacity and willingness from (i) vesting and control from a • You Yangs community, recreation or other groups land management agency to exists to share maintenance and • a Committee of Management Forrest development (ii) agency trail maintenance • Port Fairy to Where funding from a single source is with foundation/trust/ Warrnambool Rail Trail constrained incorporated society assisting • Surf Coast Walk with maintenance, funding Mixed land tenure may require a • 12 Apostles Trail and expansion of trail network partnership in order to guarantee (iii) land management agency • Old Beechy Rail Trail access over private land as primary trail manager with • Great South West Trail assistance from volunteers drawn • Munda Biddi Trail, WA from trail users • Bibbulman Track, WA • Queenstown Trails Network, NZ
Private Trails over mostly private land • Banks Peninsula Track, Where public lands in the region do not managed by land owners NZ have potential for quality trails • Tora Walk, NZ Where other trails in the region offer the same type of experience, private trails can more easily differentiate the experience and potentially attract new markets
26 GUIDELINES FOR TRAIL PLANNING, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT ELEMENT 1 ELEMENT 2 ELEMENT 3 ELEMENT 4 ELEMENT 5 ELEMENT 6 ELEMENT 7 Background Legislation Trail Management Marketing Community Monitoring and guiding and policy concept and models and and and review principles feasibility branding stakeholder planning engagement
Table 4: Advantages and disadvantages of various management models models 4 – Management ELEMENT
Model Advantages Disadvantages
Agency sole • Clear role and responsibility Consumer and tourism industry vulnerable to managed • Can enable quick decision-making but not always agency performance • Easier to apply consistent service standards Limited ability to leverage funding and broader although not guarantee community support
Partnerships • Leverages a broader support base for maintenance, Stakeholders can be ‘held to ransom’ if partners development, funding, expansions, events do not perform • Shares risk Roles and responsibilities can become confused • Forces stakeholders to enter into management Some agencies struggle to change organisational agreements so that roles and responsibilities culture towards working in partnership are clear
Private • No political or democratic interference with Trail can close without public consultation or decision-making notification • Can respond quickly to market preferences Vulnerable to economic conditions • Offers a different experience for consumers who Generally only capable of catering to a are used to only publicly administered trails small volume of visitors (group sizes typically less than 20)
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MANAGEMENT MODEL EXAMPLES The Bibbulmun Queenstown Trails Milford Track Foundation Network The Milford Track is a good example The Bibbulmun Track Foundation The Queenstown Trails network of an agency sole managed model. is an example of a partnership is an example of a successful trails New Zealand’s Department of model. It shares management of the partnership approach. It is quite Conservation (DOC) manages Bibbulmun Track in partnership with possibly the most successful example the 53km track, undertaking all Department of Parks and Wildlife in of sustainable and collaborative trail maintenance and development Western Australia. The Foundation development and management in work. There are no volunteers or has a broad membership with New Zealand. The business model community groups involved. Freedom volunteers taking responsibility for consists of a Queenstown Trails Trust walkers stay in huts provided by maintenance of sections of the track. whose role is to (i) provide leadership DOC. Those walking with Ultimate Hikes, the only commercial operator
PART A – Trail Planning Guidelines A – Trail PART The incorporated Foundation attracts and advocacy and raise funds for trail grants and donations in its own construction (ii) mobilise the community on the Milford Track, stay in private right as well as raising funds through and business sector to provide support lodges. A substantial portion of guided activities and events focusing in-kind, to establish new services for Ultimate Hike’s license fees, go on the track. The Foundation has the trails (shuttles, bike hire and repair, towards track maintenance. Ultimate paid employees coordinating activities cafés, packaged experiences with Hikes guide approximately 6,000 and fund raising. other activities), negotiate access over private clients on the Milford Track private land and provide sponsorship per year. A similar number walk Go to www.bibbulmuntrack.org.au (iii) market and promote the trails and the track independently. The same for more inspiration. (iv) collaborate with the two main management model is also used on agencies, Department of Conservation the Routeburn Track where Ultimate Great Alpine Road and Queenstown Lakes District Council, Hikes is also the sole commercial Marketing Inc. for ongoing maintenance of the trails provider of overnight hikes. network. The Trails Trust drives strategy Great Alpine Road Marketing Inc and direction the two agencies provide was established as an incorporated Banks Peninsula Track, maintenance services, often with the body representing a series of shires, New Zealand assistance of the Friends of the Trails Regional Tourism Organisations and Trust (community volunteers). There is a The Banks Peninsula Track is a leading other operators along the 400km of common brand approach to way finding, example of a private trail. It is a the Great Alpine Road in Victoria. although the two agencies have retained collaboration of five farming families The group coordinated the further their corporate colour scheme for located near Akaroa, one hour’s development and promotion of this trailhead and other key directional signs. drive from Christchurch. Group size significant touring route during its Marker posts, bollards and all marketing is limited to 12 persons. A portion formative years including establishing collateral (trail maps, brochures, website) of revenue is put towards the consistent infrastructure and have one common look and feel. maintenance of the trail and facilities. signage on a range of land tenures. This is the responsibility of the seven Funding came from contributions The Trust has two part-time staff, an shareholder properties. Decision – from partners as well as grants that office in Queenstown and a small making is by consensus. A concession were committed to implementing operating budget funded through is held by the Banks Peninsula Track the development and marketing investments created over 2005 – 2006 company, to access protected areas strategies for the benefit of all and from surpluses from the Motutapu managed by DOC. Now in its 25th parties. Without incorporation, funds Cycle Event, owned by the Trust. These year, it has become a multi-million would need to have been managed provide the Trust with an ongoing, dollar operation and the most within member agencies. sustainable source of funding for successful of its kind in New Zealand. its operation. Go to www.bankstrack.co.nz Go to www.queenstowntrail.co.nz for more inspiration. for more inspiration.
28 GUIDELINES FOR TRAIL PLANNING, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT ELEMENT 1 ELEMENT 2 ELEMENT 3 ELEMENT 4 ELEMENT 5 ELEMENT 6 ELEMENT 7 Background Legislation Trail Management Marketing Community Monitoring and guiding and policy concept and models and and and review principles feasibility branding stakeholder planning engagement
Element 5 Marketing and branding branding and 5 – Marketing ELEMENT Trail users are likely to come from two Understand Your Here is a list to get you started: key groups: those living locally, who Objectives • Agency web page and partner can access the trail directly or almost organisations web page directly from home, and those living Step 1. Be clear about your overall • Radio further a-field (usually in the city) who communication objectives. What • Brochure will travel to the area to use the trail do you want to achieve, when and • Newspaper (or to use the trail as part of a broader why? Record your overall objectives in • visiting experience). Marketing your your plan. Social media (Facebook, etc.) trail to these trail users is an essential • Email component of trail planning. Understand Your • Newsletter Audiences • Community Notice boards • Launch event 5.1 Communication Step 2. Now identify and list your • Other Print media planning different audiences. This can initially seem quite difficult: For all but the To plan out the message for each The best communications start with simplest communications plan, it’s good audience, start by thinking about the some good planning. The first step to use Stakeholder Analysis to help broadest audience groups first. As you is to put yourself in the shoes of your you do this. Stakeholder Analysis helps consider each audience in turn, ask the audience. What do they need to you identify who to communicate with following questions: know, and want to hear? What’s their and why. • What does the audience need and preferred way of receiving information? want to know? What will stop them listening to what Step 3. Now drill down into your • you have to say? And how will you communication objectives and clarify When do we need to communicate? know that they have got the message? specific objectives for each audience. A • What is the regular or preferred good way to do this is to think about channel for reaching this audience? A communications plan is a useful tool the audience’s needs – what do they • For this specific audience and that will help ensure communication need and want to know from you? List message, what is the most effective about the trail is audience-focused all the objectives (there may be several) way to get your message across? for each audience in your plan. Several messages over time may be required to meet the objectives of each Plan Communications audience. Make sure the messages Messages and Channels you plan “add up” to meet the audience’s objectives. Once you have clarified your objectives and identified the different audiences you need to communicate with, it’s Monitor Effectiveness time to plan the communications – It’s good to get feedback on the that means working out the messages communications you have planned needed to meet your objectives and and implemented. Ask people from when and how these will be delivered. different audiences how you are doing. Before starting on the detail of your Check they understand the messages plan, first jot down all the possible you need them to hear. By getting communications channels you could timely feedback, you can tune any use. Think broadly and creatively! You future communications that you have probably already use lots of great ways planned to better meet people’s needs to communicate, and some new ones or fill any gaps so far. may help get your message across.
GUIDELINES FOR TRAIL PLANNING, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT 29 ELEMENT 1 ELEMENT 2 ELEMENT 3 ELEMENT 4 ELEMENT 5 ELEMENT 6 ELEMENT 7 Background Legislation Trail Management Marketing Community Monitoring and guiding and policy concept and models and and and review principles feasibility branding stakeholder planning engagement
5.2 Marketing to those other products which attract • Ensure the brochure is widely people to the area. Developing this distributed to local relevant visitors integrated approach to marketing is retail outlets. If the majority of trail users are likely to likely to return greater benefits than any • Prepare a press release for local come from elsewhere and are not local means of promoting the trail itself. papers at least once a year relating to residents, then marketing and branding Understanding your target market the trail, and encourage local papers of your trail are best left to the experts. is vital to delivering compelling trail to come out and take a photograph. However there are four easy steps experiences and positioning it within Releases could relate to the to consider before putting the right the marketplace. construction program, to an annual marketing approach into place. maintenance weekend or busy bee, You will also need to consider how you 1. Understand your consumers – to an organised group event on the will use social media in your marketing, who are they and what are their trails, or to any other activity or event your communication with visitors, experience preferences? relating to the trails. customers and clients. Figure 3 provides • Organise an annual ‘event’ on the 2. Clarify the trail experience for these a useful insight into the visitor decision trail – perhaps a complete ride or
PART A – Trail Planning Guidelines A – Trail PART consumers – what exactly are you making process and how you can walk of the route – and publicise it trying to sell to them? engage with them about your trail/s locally through local papers and radio 3. What information channels do they and entice them to visit the Barwon and social media commonly use? South West region using social media. • Publicise the scheduled 4. How can you best tap into those maintenance activities. channels and provide content 5.3 Marketing to • Form a ‘Friends of...’ group, and that it is directly relevant to your locals undertake maintenance activities and target market? fun walks/rides, especially for young On the other hand, if trail users are Then, surround yourself with the people and new residents. expected to be mainly local people, the best people who know how to reach following list of potential actions (in The Barwon South West Trails these consumers. That will usually 5 addition to, or instead of those above) Marketing Plan 2014 is a useful be a marketing specialist within your should also be considered: reference document to commence your organisation or your local or regional • marketing plan. Table 5 presents an tourism board, or Tourism Victoria. Ask Contact the Active in Parks Programs Coordinator (activeinparks.org) extract from that plan showing how them to assist you with a marketing you need to segment trail users and plan for the trail or trail network. to discuss ways in which the organisation can support and understand their needs before trying to If tourists are likely to be a key user encourage your community to get market to them. For a copy of the plan group, local accommodation outlets active outdoors on your trails go to http://www.xxxxxxxxx and regional tourism boards should • Deliver a copy of a trail brochure or be involved in the promotion of the ebrochure to all households within a trail. The trail should be promoted as comfortable distance from any point an integral part of the regional visitor of the trail encouraging them to use experience, and should be woven into the trail and invite their friends and relatives to experience it with them
5 TRC Tourism 2015, Barwon South West Marketing Plan, Jindabyne
30 GUIDELINES FOR TRAIL PLANNING, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT ELEMENT 1 ELEMENT 2 ELEMENT 3 ELEMENT 4 ELEMENT 5 ELEMENT 6 ELEMENT 7 Background Legislation Trail Management Marketing Community Monitoring and guiding and policy concept and models and and and review principles feasibility branding stakeholder planning engagement
Figure 3: The customer journey – using social media to entice visitors to your trail branding and 5 – Marketing ELEMENT
BOOKING ANTICIPATING Is it easy for people to Is it easy for people to prepare for their visit: what to expect, anything to bring, what book accommodation to leave at home, services nearby, basics like access, parking, bus routes, ancillary and transport to get to things like where to get food, hire bicycles, shopping, things to look out for, insider your region to online, tips, latest news, behind the scenes, links to all blogs and channels, access to in-house share the deals they expertise, research, what to do before and after they visit, what’s around you, things just booked or send to of similar interest, what others have liked, news about other trails and what’s on more a friend? widely around them when they arrive such as events etc
ENROUTE DESTINATION POST VISIT SHARE Are you able to provide real time Clear signage, way finding, free How and where to share, practical things like directions, Wi-Fi, check-ins, hashtags and what’s the return or exchange, parking, alternatives, check-ins and handles for social media channels conversation starters and deals, any restrictions, weather, clearly displayed, photo guidelines, responses to visitor feedback, alerts, delays, contingencies. copyright restrictions, customer aggregating content from services, photo-taking guides, visitor multiple sources, community services, on site specials, bundled building, invite reviews and deals and partners, recommendations comments/feedback, help — add your human touch to desk, suggestion box — show everything people you generally care about their visit.
Critical Trail Tip 4 – Marketing trails Do • Make sure the trail experience matches the motivation, skills and recreation preferences of the consumer • Seek expert advice for marketing and branding your trail • Maximise the use of social media • Collaborate with your local Regional Tourism Board, tourism operators and recreation groups • Monitor the impact of marketing activities to see what is working and what is not Don’t • Go it alone • Live in hope that the trail matches consumer expectations – find out! The Victorian Trails Strategy 2014 – 2024 contains a number of strategic directions relevant to marketing particularly (i) the provision of high quality information about trails through the development of the Victorian Trails website, which will promote Victorian trails to local, national and international audiences, and provide information that assists locals and visitors in planning and maximising their trail experiences; and (ii) consumer research and promotion. For more information go to http://www.tourism.vic.gov.au/about/strategies-and-publications.html
GUIDELINES FOR TRAIL PLANNING, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT 31 ELEMENT 1 ELEMENT 2 ELEMENT 3 ELEMENT 4 ELEMENT 5 ELEMENT 6 ELEMENT 7 Background Legislation Trail Management Marketing Community Monitoring and guiding and policy concept and models and and and review principles feasibility branding stakeholder planning engagement
Table 5: Market segments and their preferences
AUDIENCE EXPERIENCE PREFERENCES TRAIL PREFERENCES
SINKS/ • Short breaks accessible from Melbourne. • Short and day soft adventure on longer trails DINKS • Different immersive, authentic, less • Trail experience packages with discovered experiences. character accommodation.
Young • Indulgent short breaks for parents accessible • Short and day trails near accommodation. Families from Melbourne • Easy short trails suitable for children near • Family holidays with activities for young children activity areas.
Older • Short breaks for parents accessible from • Short and day trails near accommodation. Families Melbourne. • Accessible short, day and overnight trails with • Family holidays with opportunities for everyone. on-trail/nearby attractions.
• • PART A – Trail Planning Guidelines A – Trail PART Mid-life Day, short breaks and longer holidays. Range of preferences for short, day and Households • New experiences outside comfort zone. overnight trails. • Also relaxation, indulgence. • Supported soft adventure on overnight trails.
Retirees • Authentic experiences ‘off the beaten track’. • Short and day trails in a range of standards, • May be constrained by financial and with potential for overnight trails (depending on physical capability. physical capability and interest).
Experience • Authentic and adventurous experiences that • Iconic and other immersive, soft adventure trails Seekers enable them to immerse themselves in and learn – day and multi-day. about places and cultures. • Some may travel to the region specifically to do • Range of price points. a particular trail(s). • Character accommodation. • Guided experiences at different price points and trail experience packages.
Experienced • Immersive experiences, often remote and/ • Interesting and challenging trails, including short Bushwalkers or challenging. and long multi-day walks. • Prepared to be self-sufficient.
Mountain • Novice/Family riders – well formed trails with flat • A to B riders – scenic countryside with variety/ Bikers to low gradients, e.g. rail trails. attractions, cafés, character budget to • MTB enthusiasts – single track with a variety of mid-range accommodation. gradients and difficulties • Easy to hard options on single-track. Gravel or dirt roads OK but not highest preference.
Local • Short weekday outdoor recreation and longer • Short and day trails accessible from home or by Residents weekend and holiday period experiences. driving. • Provide access to points of interest, beaches and circuits for local recreation.
Schools • Short and day adventures as part of outdoor and • Easy to medium grade short and day trails environmental education programs. easily accessible from adventure/school camp locations. • Trails in places that contribute to the educational experience – e.g. interpreted environmental & cultural stories.
32 GUIDELINES FOR TRAIL PLANNING, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT ELEMENT 1 ELEMENT 2 ELEMENT 3 ELEMENT 4 ELEMENT 5 ELEMENT 6 ELEMENT 7 Background Legislation Trail Management Marketing Community Monitoring and guiding and policy concept and models and and and review principles feasibility branding stakeholder planning engagement branding and 5 – Marketing ELEMENT
AUDIENCE EXPERIENCE PREFERENCES TRAIL PREFERENCES
Groups • Coach tour, business, special interest or • Short trails to points of interest. conference groups seeking to see the sights or • Short to half day excursions suitable for all group conduct group activities to complement their members and allowing group interaction. visit or for team building. • Trails need to be accessible with coach parking and near to conference facilities and accommodation.
Event • Short and long activities such as charity walks, • Range of appropriate trails with points accessible Participants trail running events, cycling events. to organisers and spectators. • Close to accommodation and transport.
Cycle Tourers • Easy to moderately challenging road and • Day and overnight trail rides. hard-packed, well-formed off-road trails. • Access to public transport or shuttle services Weekend road cyclists with fitness and challenge with cafés and points of interest essential for as key motivators. bulk of the market. • Safe roads and responsible drivers. • Cafés desirable but not essential.
GUIDELINES FOR TRAIL PLANNING, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT 33 ELEMENT 1 ELEMENT 2 ELEMENT 3 ELEMENT 4 ELEMENT 5 ELEMENT 6 ELEMENT 7 Background Legislation Trail Management Marketing Community Monitoring and guiding and policy concept and models and and and review principles feasibility branding stakeholder planning engagement
Element 6 Community and stakeholder engagement
6.1 Introduction To create sustainable trails, planning, 6.2 Planning your development and maintenance is The planning, development and dependent on stakeholders working approach management of trails involves a number together. Depending on the complexity An important consideration in any of organisations, groups and individuals of the trail or project, organisations trail process is the development of an who have an interest or who may involved may include federal, state and engagement plan that clearly reflects become partners in the project. Projects local government, regional tourism the objectives of the trail planning that include genuine and transparent boards, peak bodies, special interest process and the desired level of consultation are more likely to be organisations, volunteers and the public participation. successful as stakeholders may test private sector and business operators. ideas or options and often contribute The International Association for Public advice and influence producing a Good early engagement will allow Participation has developed a useful mutually acceptable outcome. Trail debate and ensure collaborative spectrum (Figure 4) that sets out projects that seek and deliver the needs decisions are made and will generate the various levels of communication, of the trail users and target markets are trust, goodwill and contribute to future consultation and involvement and the support. Early engagement can avoid PART A – Trail Planning Guidelines A – Trail PART likely to be successful. The identification promise being made to the public at of stakeholders and analysing their the trap where decisions are made early, each participation level. The Spectrum influence is a fundamental step which in isolation and often result in much is widely used and is a useful inclusion allows for development of appropriate energy and political capital being used within community engagement plans. methods of engagement. User in defending unsupported decisions. satisfaction will be a key measure of the Engagement early on will also establish success of the trail. the foundation for community, business and partner agency support for trail monitoring, lifecycle maintenance and other community led assistance.
Figure 4: Public Participation Spectrum IAP26
Increasing Level of Public Impact
INFORM CONSULT INVOLVE COLLABORATE EMPOWER Public To provide the public To obtain public To work directly with To partner with the To place final decision- participation with balanced and feedback on analysis, the public throughout public in each aspect of making in the hands of goal objective information alternatives and/or the process to ensure the decision including the public. to assist them in decision. that public issues and the development of understanding the concerns are consistently alternatives and the problems, alternatives understood and identification of the and/or solutions. considered. preferred solution. Promise to We will keep you We will keep you We will work with you We will look to you We will implement what the public informed. informed, listen to and to ensure that your for direct advice and you decide. acknowledge concerns concerns and issues are innovation in formulating and provide feedback directly reflected in the solutions and incorporate on how public input alternatives developed your advise and influenced the decision. and provide feedback recommendations on how public input into the decisions to influenced the decision the maximum extent possible. Example Tools • Fact sheets • Public comment • Workshops • Citizen Advisory • Citizen juries • Websites • Focus groups • Deliberate polling committees • Ballots • Open houses • Surveys • Consensus-building • Delegated decisions • Public meetings • Participatory decision-making
6 International Association for Public Participation 2015
34 GUIDELINES FOR TRAIL PLANNING, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT ELEMENT 1 ELEMENT 2 ELEMENT 3 ELEMENT 4 ELEMENT 5 ELEMENT 6 ELEMENT 7 Background Legislation Trail Management Marketing Community Monitoring and guiding and policy concept and models and and and review principles feasibility branding stakeholder planning engagement ELEMENT 6 – Community and stakeholder engagement stakeholder and 6 – Community ELEMENT
An example of a staged approach to community and stakeholder engagement has been provided in Figure 5. The stages allow for flexibility and progress from purpose setting and identifying the preferred agency or organisational approach, the scope and what’s in and what’s out (e.g. the negotiables), to the setting of clear objectives to guide and measure the process. The identification of stakeholders is a fundamental step which allows for the development of appropriate methods of engagement. A good process should provide a clear understanding of the stakeholder views on which management decisions can be made and which require further discussion.
Figure 5: Example of engagement strategy components
SCOPE APPROACH OBJECTIVES Identify the purpose e.g to Includes consultaion obligations To guide consultaion, engage with trail users to which could include agency e.g. We will ensure that we ensure we get the best trail that committments e.g early and understand the aspirations of suits the needs of the users ongoing engagement and what the potential trail users is and not negotiable
STAKEHOLDER ANALYSIS ENGAGEMENT METHODS RECORD AND EVALUATION / TOOLS Identify who are likely to have Managing responses and an interest, their likely issues Identify best method of ensure feedback and interests and identify the engageing with stakeholders Evaluate results of engagement contribution they will make the through phases of the project process and input into the process delivery of the project Feedback to stakeholders
GUIDELINES FOR TRAIL PLANNING, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT 35 ELEMENT 1 ELEMENT 2 ELEMENT 3 ELEMENT 4 ELEMENT 5 ELEMENT 6 ELEMENT 7 Background Legislation Trail Management Marketing Community Monitoring and guiding and policy concept and models and and and review principles feasibility branding stakeholder planning engagement
Common methods for engaging with stakeholders vary according to the intended purpose and outcomes required. Some simple methods commonly used for trail consultation are shown in Table 6.
Table 6: Common methods for engaging with stakeholder on trails
OBJECTIVE PART A – Trail Planning Guidelines A – Trail PART Provide information Maintain awareness/ Updating information Identify issues and concerns Develop objectives / Issues Develop options ideas / PrioritiseTest options relationshipsBuild and involvement Achieve consensus Reach large numbers of stakeholders Reach people who don’t participate readily Influence groupssmall / individual contact Obtain decision input into making Satisfy statutory requirements (e.g. veg clearance)
Advertisement / Media
Letter / phone call
Newsletter / Brochure
Internet
Signs/ Maps / Models
Public Display / Exhibition
Meeting with key individuals
Submissions from stakeholders
Telephone Hotline
Surveys
Presentations to existing groups
Local community group meetings
Public meetings
Community event
Open day information session
Further information – Community engagement The following website contains a valuable list of tools for assisting in the planning, implementation and evaluation of community engagement activities: http://www.dse.vic.gov.au/effective-engagement
36 GUIDELINES FOR TRAIL PLANNING, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT ELEMENT 1 ELEMENT 2 ELEMENT 3 ELEMENT 4 ELEMENT 5 ELEMENT 6 ELEMENT 7 Background Legislation Trail Management Marketing Community Monitoring and guiding and policy concept and models and and and review principles feasibility branding stakeholder planning engagement
Element 7 Monitoring and review review and 7 – Monitoring ELEMENT 7.1 Introduction enable trail managers to direct valuable planning phase for the trail. Many grant resources to priority works. funding agencies will respond positively Trails change with time as do trail to the inclusion of such a program as it Keeping accurate records is an experiences and expectations. Some gives them reassurance that the future important component of any changes to the physical trail are is of the trail will be considered and monitoring program. This will include obvious, and will be noticed either reported on. by users or as part of the regular talking to trail users. They will know maintenance program. Some are less what problems are developing and obvious and may not be noticed until where. Mechanisms to encourage 7.2 Recommended they become an issue. The process of feedback from trail users should be approach change can be quite subtle and, given developed. This could include: The trail monitoring program in Figure 6 that it can occur over extended time • the erection of signs encouraging shows the relationship between the periods, can be hard to notice. feedback via telephone numbers and email addresses components of the monitoring program Monitoring should measure the and how a structured monitoring • a website where users can log on and trail users experience and whether program can assist managers in report issues the original vision for the trail and implementing change. • phone numbers on brochures environmental values are being and maps. This is the recommended approach for maintained. This monitoring approach • trail monitoring in Barwon South West. provides the tool that will identify simple questionnaire or online survey priorities for trail maintenance and Ideally, a program of monitoring and evaluation should be built into the
GUIDELINES FOR TRAIL PLANNING, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT 37 ELEMENT 1 ELEMENT 2 ELEMENT 3 ELEMENT 4 ELEMENT 5 ELEMENT 6 ELEMENT 7 Background Legislation Trail Management Marketing Community Monitoring and guiding and policy concept and models and and and review principles feasibility branding stakeholder planning engagement
Figure 6: Trail monitoring program for Barwon South West
MONITORING AIMS MONITORING OBJECTIVES To identify the overall aim or purpose of the Identify specific measurable and achievable monitoring monitoring project. components that contribute to achieving the aim. Examples could include: For example, assess social and environmental • measure the number of new trail users over an change on the trail and the adjacent area from a identifed section of a new shared use trail over the pilot project that changes trail use. school holiday period; More specific aim could include: • measure the level of awareness, satisfaction, • evaluate user satisfaction, environmental expectation, and percieved benefit on the new changes, public risk or behaviour change shared use trail during peak use time; resulting from introduction of new • measure physical performance of trail by assessing trail experinces. compaction and erosion impact on trail tread and PART A – Trail Planning Guidelines A – Trail PART performance of grade reversals; and • assess level of risk to trail infrastructure and users resulting from the changed access to trail trail and inform prioritise maintenace works.
MONITORING INDICATORS MONITORING METHODS Choose from a range of indicators that best suit Select monitoring methods based on project objectives and the purpose of monitoring for the objectives and available resources outcome sought. Range from face to face user surveys to remote Indicators should be one or more of the following: unobtrusive observation.
• number of trail users; Methods should include: • type of activity undertaken; • user numbers sourced by motion counters, physical • satisfaction or otherwise of the users; counting or estimates based on car counters at adjacent • level of risk to infrastructure or users car parks; • returns on investment; • photographic techniques to monitor change over time • physical trail condition; including photo points or photo survelliance systems; • input into trail maintenance and repair; • satisfaction surveys undertaken remotely or person • frequency and detail of trail related incidents. to person; • scientific based survey or assessment of loss of trails surface material.
38 GUIDELINES FOR TRAIL PLANNING, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT PART B – Detailed Design Guidelines These guidelines build on the trail planning guidelines and provide advice on how to apply the relevant standards and design principles to develop, manage and maintain high quality trails.
ELEMENT 8 ELEMENT 9 ELEMENT 10 ELEMENT 11 ELEMENT 12 Trail Building Maintaining Education Orientation classification successful successful and and safety and standards trails trails interpretation
PAGE 42 PAGE 45 PAGE 55 PAGE 60 PAGE 62
GUIDELINES FOR TRAIL PLANNING, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT 39 ELEMENT 8 ELEMENT 9 ELEMENT 10 ELEMENT 11 ELEMENT 12 APPENDICES Trail Building Maintaining Education and Orientation classification successful trails successful trails interpretation and safety and standards
Element 8 Trail classification and standards 8.1 Introduction The application of the Australian 8.3 Cycling standards Walking Track Grading System is a This section of the guidelines provides two-step process. The first step is a Developing high quality networks and guidance on how to design and technical grading of the walk. The land facilities for cyclists, as well as ensuring construct sustainable trails. It assumes manager determines a walk’s grade that all local planning and transport that a decision has been made on who of difficulty using descriptors taken plans are fully integrated and address the target user group(s) will be and that from the Australian Standard 2156.1- the needs of cycling are also critical various alternative options have been 2001 Walking Tracks – Classification components of any cycling strategy. explored as discussed in Part A. Most of and Signage. The second step is Guidance is now available through the information relates to providing trails the development of a “plain English a series of Austroads Guides. The in natural settings, although some of the language” description to describe the Cycling Aspects of Austroads Guides guidelines and references are applicable walk to the public. (2014) contains information that relates to creating trails in urban settings. Under the system, walking trails are to the planning, design and traffic graded on a difficulty scale from grades management of cycling facilities, PART B – Trail Design Guidelines B – Trail PART 8.2 Australian one to five. an overview of planning and traffic walking track management considerations and Grade One is suitable for the disabled cross-references to other Austroads grading system with assistance Guides and texts. The document is Trail grading systems are used to Grade Two is suitable for families with intended as a guide for engineers, categorise the relative technical young children planners and designers involved in the difficulty of recreation trails. These planning, design and construction of Grade Three is recommended for systems are used to assist trail users cycling facilities. It consolidates and people with some bushwalking make informed decisions; encourage summarises the information in current experience visitors to use trails that match their skill Austroads Guides, in particular the level; manage risk and minimize injuries; Grade Four is recommended for Guide to Road Design and the Guide to improve the outdoor experience for a experienced bushwalkers, and Traffic Management. wide variety of visitors; and aid in the Grade Five is recommended for very https://www.onlinepublications. planning of trails and trail networks.. experienced bushwalkers austroads.com.au/items/AP-G88-14 The Guide to Road Design – Part 6A: Pedestrian and Cyclist Paths (Austroads Critical Trail Tip 5 – 2009m) should be used for guidance on Australian walking the planning, design and construction track grading of paths. This document consolidates information relating to on-road bicycle Further information about the facilities and provides a summary of Australian Walking Track Grading key design information for cyclist paths, System is available through the including intersections of paths with link below. roads. http://bcs.asn.au/austroads_ cycling.pdf http://www.depi.vic.gov. au/forestry-and-land-use/ Vic Roads have produced a series of visiting-parks-and-forests/ Cycling Notes addressing shared bicycle/ visiting-state-forests/activities/australian- pedestrian path design and other walking-track-grading-system matters relating to cycling. For more information go to http://www.vicroads. vic.gov.au
40 GUIDELINES FOR TRAIL PLANNING, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT ELEMENT 8 ELEMENT 9 ELEMENT 10 ELEMENT 11 ELEMENT 12 APPENDICES Trail Building Maintaining Education and Orientation classification successful trails successful trails interpretation and safety and standards ELEMENT 8 – Trail classification and standards 8 – Trail and classification ELEMENT Critical Trail Tip 6 – Cycle paths There are a range of resources available to ensure cycle paths are designed and built to Australian Standards AS 1742.9 – Manual of uniform traffic control devices – Bicycle Facilities. These resources should be used in conjunction with the Infrastructure Design Manual which documents Council’s requirements for the design and development of infrastructure and to ensure minimum design criteria are met in within the partner agencies (IDM Board 2013). These resources are important tools to guide the sustainable and safe development of bicycle trails for cyclists, pedestrian and other users. The characteristics, attributes and principles of good design adopted within these documents are reflected in excellent trails. Other useful references include http://www.vicroads.vic.gov.au/Home/Moreinfoandservices/Bicycles/StrategicDirectionsForCycling/ BicycleFacilityDesignStandards.htm https://www.onlinepublications.austroads.com.au/items/AGRD http://www.bicyclecouncil.com.au http://www.vicroads.vic.gov.au/NR/rdonlyres/D5725F80-B383-4093-805C-FA25DFE122DC/0/tr1999020.pdf https://www.onlinepublications.austroads.com.au
8.4 Standards for reporting line to the Minister for Public of contaminated sites where this is Transport and the Treasurer. VicTrack public risk and most trails will require rail trails works closely with other agencies and development of signs, fencing, and Rail trails are shared-use paths departments, rail and tram operators public access including car parks, public developed on abandoned railway and local councils and community safety issues, risk assessment and the corridors and used for walking, cycling groups to support transport, development of a code of conduct and horse riding. Most trails have government and community priorities. for users. a gravel or dirt surface suitable for VicTrack no longer surrender unused Rail Trails Australia provide information walking, mountain bikes and horses railway land back to the Crown so all for the development of feasibility and some are sealed for touring bikes. new rail trails will be on land leased studies and infrastructure, examples Following the route of the railways, from VicTrack with most rail trails of infrastructure requirements and they cut through hills, under roads, managed by a local committee of Australian and international case over embankments and across gullies management for a community reserve studies. For more information go to: and creeks and often link remnant appointed by the Minister under the https://www.railtrails.org.au/ vegetation in farming areas and contain Transport Integration Act 20107. valuable flora and fauna habitat management-resources/rail-trail-establis which together with attractive rural Most lines had their rails and sleepers hment-guidelines landscapes and linking to towns they removed shortly after decommissioning make great places to walk, cycle or and often bridges have been removed horse ride. Great rail trails in Australia or require upgrading. The establishment and overseas link landscape, natural of bridges and trail surface are features, wineries and other attractions one of the major infrastructure with towns and great places to stay. considerations in developing a rail trail. Clear understanding of Infrastructure All railway land in Victoria is owned requirements and maintenance is a by the government corporation major consideration in the feasibility VicTrack, a State owned enterprise planning process for rail trails. with an independent Board with a dual Treatment may require remediation
7 Rail Trails Australia 2014
GUIDELINES FOR TRAIL PLANNING, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT 41 ELEMENT 8 ELEMENT 9 ELEMENT 10 ELEMENT 11 ELEMENT 12 APPENDICES Trail Building Maintaining Education and Orientation classification successful trails successful trails interpretation and safety and standards PART B – Trail Design Guidelines B – Trail PART
8.5 Standards for The IMBA Trail Difficulty Rating It is important as with most examples System can: of trail development and construction mountain bike • help trail users make informed that trail users and riders are consulted trails decisions as to how they would rank the trails • The two versions have been attached The Mountain Bike Trail Difficulty Rating encourage visitors to use trails that in the Appendix 4 and can be System (TDRS) was adapted by IMBA match their skill level viewed together with advice to land from the international Trail Marking • manage risk and minimise injuries managers on how to rate trails in the System used in ski areas throughout • improve the outdoor experience for a IMBA publications Trail Solutions and the world. Agencies and trail managers wide variety of visitors Managing Mountain Biking8. are adopting this type of system. • aid in the planning of trails and trail The system best applies to mountain systems. bikers, but has also been modified to The TDRS includes five levels of be applied to other trail users including difficulty from easiest white circle horse riding. to extremely difficult double black Two versions of the Trail Difficulty diamond as shown in Appendices 2 and Rating System (TDRS) have been 3. There are four measurable criteria to developed; one version for the land determine the ratings including: manager, which includes quantitative • tread width measures against criteria such as trail • tread surface gradient and width and a second • trail grade version for users e.g. by replacing • natural obstacles and technical quantitative measures with descriptions trail features (e.g. describe slope rather than define as a % gradient). 8 IMBA 2012
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Element 9 Building successful trails ELEMENT 9 – Building successful trails successful 9 – Building ELEMENT 9.1 Introduction 9.2 Trail systems 9.3 Single or This section provides guidance on how Generally, it is preferable to design shared‑use to design and construct sustainable a trail system with loops that offer a The planning and design phase should trails in Barwon South West Region. It number of options and a variety of clearly determine whether the trail is assumes that a decision has been made experiences while preventing the need intended for single or shared-use. While on who the target user group(s) will to back track. A stacked trail loop trails can be designed to accommodate be and that various alternative options system will provide opportunities to a range of users, this will depend on a have been explored. Most of the design trails that appeal to different number of factors including demand, information relates to providing trails in user groups: the core trail, which cost, access and land suitability. The natural settings, although some of the leads from the trail head, can be wide, universal design principles described guidelines and references are applicable smooth, open and flowing; while in Element 1 are a key consideration to creating trails in urban settings. other loops branching from it can in trail design. Shared-use of trails will be narrower and more challenging. The guidelines can be applied to both encourage greater usage and allow Intersections should occur on relatively single-use (walking, cycling, horse increased access for a wider section level ground and where there is riding) and shared-use (any combination of the population. As an example, the good visibility. of walking, cycling or horse riding). introduction of mountain bikes on to In addition to these guidelines, it Linear trails generally connect two a range of fire access tracks in South is strongly recommended that trail distant points, often providing an Australian Parks has provided, with designers consult other recognised texts off-road alternative for users and appropriate design, the opportunity for identified in these guidelines. extending over considerable distances. a range of new visitors to engage in Because of the distances involved it physical activity and enjoy parks close There are a number of different may be necessary to utilise existing to where they live. trail possibilities, options, and low traffic roads and/or unmade road characteristics, as outlined in previous reserves9. Because of the potential for sections of the guidelines (see Appendix 9.4 Designing conflict with other road users it will A for different trail classes). Most of be necessary to identify the nature sustainable trails the following information relates to the and volume of other road users to creation of shared-use trails for walkers, The International Mountain Bicycling determine their suitability. Unmade cyclists and horse riders. Where there Association (IMBA) identifies core road reserves or disused railway are particular requirements relating to a elements for a sustainable trail which lines offer excellent opportunities for specific user group or sub-group these are successfully applied to a range of linear trails. have been identified and highlighted. trail types. The core elements need to Descending trails with an uplift be balanced equally in the development The concept and definition of service (e.g. shuttle or chairlift) are a trail and if any one element is sustainable trails has been discussed in an increasingly popular style of linear overemphasised at the expense of previous sections of these guidelines. trail. Once the domain of “Downhill” the other there could be significant It is worth reiterating that sustainable mountain bike trails this style of trail damage to the environment, provide trails do not require extensive has become increasingly popular with an unsafe or negative experience, infrastructure. They make the most of the dominant “All Mountain” mountain or impact financially or practically the natural features of an area without bike market in recent years and is the on trail maintenance. Sustainable introducing infrastructure that may focus of many high profile mountain trails should have very little impact compromise the natural appeal and bike trails around the world. on the environment; resist erosion character of the area: the reason users through proper design, construction are attracted to trails in the first place. and maintenance and blend with the An important ‘rule of thumb’, therefore, surrounding area10. is to plan the route so that the need for infrastructure, such as bridges, switchbacks, retaining walls, etc., is minimised. This will not only minimise associated visual and environmental impacts, it will also mean a cheaper trail to build and maintain. 9 Sustainable Recreational Trail Guidelines South Australia 10 IMBA, 2004
GUIDELINES FOR TRAIL PLANNING, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT 43 ELEMENT 8 ELEMENT 9 ELEMENT 10 ELEMENT 11 ELEMENT 12 APPENDICES Trail Building Maintaining Education and Orientation classification successful trails successful trails interpretation and safety and standards
Building successful sustainable trails Note: the maximum sustainable grade Critical Trail Tip 7 – requires a high level of expertise and on a gentle hillside will be half the Principles of understanding of design. Across grade of the sideslope. sustainable trails Australia a number of skilled trail • Soil Type – There are many types of designers, builders and practitioners soil and each has different qualities An ideal trail will simultaneously have constructed a range of excellent of cohesion and drainage. Some incorporate the five sustainable trails based on these principles. soils will support steeper trail grades trail principles. When developing trail projects it is than others. 1. Maximum Sustainable Grade recommended that the expertise • Rock – Trail grades can be steeper on of these recognised trail builders 2. The 10-Percent Average solid rock. However, steep earthen be sought. Guideline sections between rocks may need to be fortified or armoured to prevent 3. The Half Rule To further understand the technical aspects used by these designers in soil loosening and erosion. 4. Grade Reversals the development of trails and to assist • Annual Rainfall Amount – Trails PART B – Trail Design Guidelines B – Trail PART 5. Outslope future trail developers we recommend in regions with either very high or For further information go to: sourcing the IMBA publications in very low annual rainfall may need https://www.imba.com/resources/ particular Trail Solutions IMBA’s to be designed with gentler trail trail-building/designing-and-buildi Guide to Building Sweet Singletrack grades. Lots of rain can lead to ng-sustainable-trails (2004). For further information go water –caused erosion. Low rain to https://www.imba.com/resources/ levels can lead to very dry and loose trail-building/designing-and-building-su tread surfaces. stainable-trails • Grade Reversals – A grade reversal is a short dip followed by a rise, 9.5 Maximum forcing water to drain off the trail. It is an essential technique for sustainable trail preventing water from channelling grades down the trail. Frequent grade reversals will allow for slightly steeper Generally, an average trail grade of trail grades (refer Figure 8). 10 % or less is most sustainable (refer • Types of Users – Trails restricted Figure 7) and this is known as the 10% to relatively low-impact visitors such Average Guideline.11 as hikers and mountain bikers can Maximum grade is the steepest section sustain maximum grades as high of trail that is more than about 3 as 15 to 25% for short distances meters in length. When designing a depending on soil and rainfall. trail, it is essential to determine early in Trails open to visitors with higher the process the precise maximum trail impact, such as horses or motorised grades the trail will be able to sustain in users should have more gentle the local conditions. This target figure maximum grades. will help guide the layout and ensure • Numbers of Users – Trails with high sustainability. Although maximum anticipated use may need shallower sustainable grade is typically about maximum trail grades. 15 to 20 percent, it is site specific and • Difficulty Levels – Trails with a fluctuates based on several factors. The higher level of technical challenge variables to be considered when setting may incorporate steeper grades, the maximum trail grade include: but construction techniques such • Half Rule – A trail’s grade shouldn’t as frequent grade reversals and exceed half the grade of the armouring may be necessary to sideslope, it is considered a fall line ensure sustainability. trail
11 IMBA 2004
44 GUIDELINES FOR TRAIL PLANNING, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT ELEMENT 8 ELEMENT 9 ELEMENT 10 ELEMENT 11 ELEMENT 12 APPENDICES Trail Building Maintaining Education and Orientation classification successful trails successful trails interpretation and safety and standards ELEMENT 9 – Building successful trails successful 9 – Building ELEMENT Calculating the maximum sustainable Desirable Control Points Inappropriate Control Points trail grade is a complicated process that requires a high level of trail Scenic overlooks; Environmentally sensitive areas(e.g. wildlife building knowledge and experience. long distance views habitat, rare plant species) When in doubt, design trails with conservative grades until you have Waterfalls and other Low lying wet/boggy areas had the opportunity to observe the water features effect of a variety of trail grades in your Rocky outcrops Steep side slopes location. For further information go to https://www.imba.com/resources/ Historical sites Water crossings and riparian zones trail-building/designing-and-building-su Geological monuments Sensitive archaeological sites stainable-trails. Archaeological sites Known weed infested or diseased areas
9.6 Gathering Existing access points, roads or Inappropriate soils (e.g. loose sand, information other trails boggy clays) Prior to commencing the design Water crossings present particular challenges process, it is important to collect as to trail designers: ideally, water crossings much information as possible about should be avoided if possible. the land. Typically this will include and involve: • maps showing cadastral boundaries, topographic features such as 9.8 Sustainable 9.9 Grade reversals drainage lines and contours trails follow the A grade reversals is where the trail has • land ownership and adjacent land contours to be briefly reversed (i.e. a climb briefly uses, including opportunities for goes down, or a descent briefly goes linkages to surrounding areas The most sustainable trails are those that up) to help divert water off the trail. A • location and type of vegetation, soils have a low overall grade (less than 10%, trail along a steep slope may require and other natural features (e.g. rare or a one in 10 change in elevation) to grade reversals every 10-15 metres, or threatened species, important minimise the potential for water erosion. depending on soil type and rainfall. habitat, cultural heritage areas, Combined with an outslope, or ‘crossfall’ Incorporating grade reversals will avoid Phytophthora risk areas, etc.) on the trail path which slopes gently the need to build water-diversion • aerial photographs away from the high side, and regular devices later. They also break up a climb • planning control provisions grade reversals or undulations, this will or descent and can provide recovery ensure that water flows across and not sections for users. Regular changes 9.7 Identifying control along the trail. If steeper sections are in grade will also assist in controlling unavoidable they should be as short as excessive speeds by mountain bike points possible (not exceeding 20 metres in riders. Grade reversals are also beneficial length) and have a maximum gradient no This information can then be used before and after steep sections, with more than 50% of the fall line gradient. to identify control points. These smooth transitions between different Steep sections should be preceded and are places of interest that trail users grades; and at the approach to a followed by a grade reversal to shed will be attracted to (desirable) or watercourse, to disperse water and silt water away from the trail. Consider should avoid (inappropriate). They away from the watercourse. armouring the trail tread with rock to will dictate where the trail should minimise the potential for erosion.12 commence and finish, the location of parking areas, structures, slopes for turns or switchbacks, and road or watercourse crossings.
12 Government of South Australia 2007
GUIDELINES FOR TRAIL PLANNING, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT 45 ELEMENT 8 ELEMENT 9 ELEMENT 10 ELEMENT 11 ELEMENT 12 APPENDICES Trail Building Maintaining Education and Orientation classification successful trails successful trails interpretation and safety and standards
9.10 Trail flow Mountain bike riders tend to travel faster than walkers and horse riders and therefore trails designed for them should have a certain tempo or rhythm (referred to as flow). Contour trail designs can have three basic types of flow: open and flowing, tight and technical or hybrid (a combination of both). Open and flowing trails have wide smoother surfaces, long sight lines, sweeping turns and appeal to less skilled cyclists or those who enjoy travelling fast. PART B – Trail Design Guidelines B – Trail PART Tight and technical trails have sharper turns, narrower and rougher surfaces, and sometimes include obstacles. By their very design these trails dictate that Take advantage of the topography to improve drainage users slow down. Hybrid trails blend the features of both with transitions between the different sections. Transitions should 9.11 Trail surface fragments (e.g. naturally formed gravel) occur gradually with good sightlines as the angular fragments will typically or on top of hills to minimise the need While a natural surface for recreational bed in and form a more secure surface, for heavy braking and skidding. The trails may be appropriate in many whereas the rounded fragments will trail flow should be planned to suit the situations, the application of an artificial become loose and ‘skatey’. host environment. In grassland and trail surface (e.g. bitumen, crushed rock, Ultimately, the trail should be the ‘path open woodland areas users are likely sand) may be required if anticipated of least resistance’ even in difficult to short-cut tight corners, so open user numbers are high or sections of terrain. This will ensure that users and flowing trails are preferable. In the natural surface is loose or prone to do not leave the trail and form new, more densely vegetated areas sight instability. The type of surface will also easier routes. lines are more limited, so it’s best to depend on who the primary users will keep user speeds down with tight and be. For example, for more technical technical trails. trails, it may be preferable to leave 9.12 Surface water natural obstacles such as rocks and tree control In wooded areas open and flowing trails roots provided that they are not safety can safely be incorporated if gradients hazards or will contribute to erosion. Diverting surface water off the trail are shallower and/or trails are single On bench-cut trails, it’s usually preferable is of the highest priority in achieving direction and single use. Many mountain to remove rocks on the inside edge of sustainable trails. Running water bike trails are in densely wooded areas the tread, otherwise users will be forced will erode the tread and support and are fast flowing trails, and it it is to the outside edge, possibly resulting in structures and result in the deposition important to consider this in the detailed tread widening or break down. of sedimentation. Standing water can design stage. result in soft boggy conditions, and Large, rounded, flat and stable rocks tread and support structure failure. The should generally be kept in place to most effective way to address these assist with tread stability. risks is through designing contour trails If a trail is to be surfaced with gravel and frequently outsloping the tread. then angular fragments (e.g. crushed Other drainage treatments include rock) is recommended over rounded grade or drain dips and waterbars.13
13 Government of South Australia 2007
46 GUIDELINES FOR TRAIL PLANNING, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT ELEMENT 8 ELEMENT 9 ELEMENT 10 ELEMENT 11 ELEMENT 12 APPENDICES Trail Building Maintaining Education and Orientation classification successful trails successful trails interpretation and safety and standards ELEMENT 9 – Building successful trails successful 9 – Building ELEMENT Figure 7: Outslope
It is noted that completely outsloping trails will not provide enjoyable (e.g. flow) and safe (e.g. off camber turns) mountain bike trails. Instead a mixture of inslope and outslope is required, where frequent outslope sections are provided at low points in the trail to shed water off the trail 5% Outslope (i.e. outslope at the base of grade reversals and other low points at regular intervals).
Trail Profile
5% Outslope
9.13 Watercourse possible. If a new crossing is unavoidable, 9.14 Low lying and it is important to seek professional advice crossings from a suitably qualified Engineer in boggy terrain Water crossings are a critical element of relation to the design and construction of Low lying and boggy sections should trail design and construction. A water any structure proposed to be built over be avoided if possible because surface crossing is the site where the trail may or through a watercourse and reference water will not adequately drain away have the greatest impact on water to the relevant Australian Standards such from the tread. If there is no other quality and the site where water has the as AS 2156.2-2001 Walking Tracks – option then consider the need for a greatest potential to damage the trail. Infrastructure boardwalk or a raised reinforced tread, Stone armouring is a commonly utilised For trails running alongside watercourses, such as armouring. Another alternative and sustainable method for crossing the impacts on water quality and the is to consider the use of geo-textile shallower and/or periodic creek crossings. riparian zone (i.e. the land along the materials that allow drainage, separate With this in mind, it is always preferable edge of a watercourse) will be minimised the underlying soil from the tread to avoid establishing new water crossings by building trails on gentle slopes and surface and reinforce the trail tread15. by utilising existing crossings where directing water flow off the trail and In some circumstances, rubber mats away from the watercourse. may be an appropriate, relatively inexpensive alternative which keeps the surface of the trail solid without intensifying erosion.14
14 Government of South Australia 2007
GUIDELINES FOR TRAIL PLANNING, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT 47 ELEMENT 8 ELEMENT 9 ELEMENT 10 ELEMENT 11 ELEMENT 12 APPENDICES Trail Building Maintaining Education and Orientation classification successful trails successful trails interpretation and safety and standards
Critical Trail Tip 8 – Contour trails A contour trail is a path that gently traverses a hill or sideslope. It’s characterized by a gentle grade, undulations called grade reversals, and a tread that usually tilts or outslopes slightly toward the outer edge at the low points in the trail, i.e. that usually tilts or outslopes slightly towards the outer edge at the low points in the trail.. These features minimize tread erosion by allowing water to drain in a gentle, non-erosive manner called sheet flow. When water drains in thin, dispersed sheets, dirt stays where it belongs - on the trail. 1. Do everything you can to keep the water off the tread, and users on it 2. Build on the contour and use frequent grade reversals - surf the hillside 3. Follow the half-rule: A trail’s grade shouldn’t exceed half the grade of the sideslope 4. Maximum grade should be 15 percent (except for natural or built rock structures) 5. Average grade should stay under 10 percent (with grade reversals) 6. Route trails to positive control points (viewpoints, water, other attractions) 7. Use bench-cut construction, and excavate soil from the hillside 8. For reroutes, reclaim old trail thoroughly - the visual corridor as well as the trail tread
PART B – Trail Design Guidelines B – Trail PART 9. For highly technical trails where grade will sometimes exceed 15 percent, use natural rock, rock armouring or other rock features to add challenge and improve sustainability.
Figure 8: Average trail segment grade (included here)
Ramp Knick 10–20 Feet 6–10 Feet
Figure 9: Grade reversal
Knick Ramp Outslope 15% max. Outslope 5%
48 GUIDELINES FOR TRAIL PLANNING, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT ELEMENT 8 ELEMENT 9 ELEMENT 10 ELEMENT 11 ELEMENT 12 APPENDICES Trail Building Maintaining Education and Orientation classification successful trails successful trails interpretation and safety and standards ELEMENT 9 – Building successful trails successful 9 – Building ELEMENT 9.15 Designing Table 7: Shared path widths cycling paths Path width (m) The design and development of cycle paths on hardened surfaces requires Local access Commuter Recreational significant design and engineering due path path path to the interaction with other traffic and Desirable minimum width 2.5 3.0 3.5 users and potential for high speeds. Minimum width – 2.5(1)–3.0(2) 2.5(1)–4.0(2) 3.0(1)–4.0(2) This section provides a guide to what is typical maximum expected in the construction of these trails. Much of the advice included here is 1 A lesser width should only to be adopted where cyclist volumes and operational speeds provided by Cycling Aspects of Austroads will remain low. Guides (2014) a very useful resource for 2 A greater width may be required where the numbers of cyclists and pedestrians are very those contemplating the development high or there is a high probability of conflict between users (e.g. people walking dogs, of cycle paths. Specialised assistance roller bladers and skaters etc.). should be sought in the construction Source: Austroads (2009f) Figure 7.4. of these trails. For further information go to http://www.austroads.com.au/ Space to Ride – The bicycle design shown in Figure 9 provides the basis for the road-operations/bicycles/resources/cycli design of the bicycle facilities. It is important for designers to understand the basis ng-aspects-to-austroads-guides of the design including clearance requirements.
Figure 10: Clearance requirements for cyclists from Austroads 2014
Smooth surfaces – Many touring bicycles have narrow tyres inflated to high pressure to reduce drag and have no suspension system. A smooth surface is therefore desirable for bicycles to be used effectively, comfortably and safely. Surfaces used for cycling should desirably be smoother than those for motor Key design criteria for formed cycle vehicles and there are considerations for maintenance e.g. debris washing onto pathways discussed in the Austroads paths or pot holes and cracks can create a hazard particularly for high speed riding. guide include: Speed maintenance – For bicycles to be most effective as a means of transport Path width – generally shared paths cyclists must be able to maintain speed without having to slow or stop often. are preferred Table 7 shows desirable Bicycle routes, especially off-road, should be designed for continuous riding, widths and acceptable ranges of width minimising the need to slow or stop for any reason including steep gradients, for shared use paths. Greater width rough surfaces, sharp corners, obscured sight lines, intersections, or to give way to may be developed where it is needed other people because the width available is too narrow. (e.g. very high demand that may also result in overtaking in both directions).
GUIDELINES FOR TRAIL PLANNING, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT 49 ELEMENT 8 ELEMENT 9 ELEMENT 10 ELEMENT 11 ELEMENT 12 APPENDICES Trail Building Maintaining Education and Orientation classification successful trails successful trails interpretation and safety and standards
Sight lines – It is important that • Consider the ecological sensitivity of 9.17 Designing appropriate sight lines are provided so the area and the potential impact on that cyclists can stop in the event that habitat, breeding locations, animal urban trails a hazard exists on the path (e.g. mud movement patterns, etc. Given the range, fitness levels and deposited during inundation, potholes • Consider the use of raised number of users that are likely to be due to washouts, broken glass, and boardwalks or ‘sand ladders’ to allow attracted to an urban trail, safety fallen tree limbs). for shifting sand levels, the protection considerations take on greater of sensitive vegetation, animal importance. Similarly, access for a wider Designers should therefore resist the movement and stormwater flows. temptation to provide curves that are range of user groups, including those • Minimise visual intrusion by keeping with mobility impairments, is likely to smaller than necessary (e.g. to create an structures low to the ground and have a greater influence on the design artificially winding path for aesthetics using materials that blend with the of the trail than would be the case in a or urban design reasons). It is much landscape and are durable. remote area. better for the safety of path users if • Ensure that the location of the trail larger curves with greater sight distance With this in mind, it is important that PART B – Trail Design Guidelines B – Trail PART will not encourage traffic onto are provided. sensitive areas. urban trails are designed in accordance with recognised traffic engineering Connectivity – Cyclists need to be able • Provide for controlled access points standards and that special consideration to undertake and complete meaningful to/from the beach and inland areas. is given to the following17: trips by bicycle. For recreation it may • Consider potential visual impacts, • Trail surface: Bitumen is often the be from a visitor centre to a visitor not only from the land, but also from most suitable surface for heavily attraction or from a transport hub to a the water and beach. Avoid locating utilised shared use trails as it provides tourist attraction or in an urban setting extensive infrastructure in visually an even and durable pathway which from home to work or the shops. Bicycle prominent locations such as cliff tops, can be easily repaired. routes comprising roads and paths headlands, the terminal vistas of should combine to form an effective, adjacent roads, etc. • Trail width: A minimum 3m wide convenient and safe network.15 • Use materials for the trail tread trail is recommended for a heavily surface that are appropriate to the used trail in order to minimise the site context and anticipated user chance of conflict between users. 9.16 Designing demands, and consider ongoing Such a width is especially important coastal trails maintenance requirements. Paved if the trail is used by cyclists for or other sealed surfaces may be commuting and where pedestrians Coastal locations are generally appropriate in built up, heavily and cyclists commonly travel in both characterised by stable and unstable trafficked areas. directions. Line marking should also dunal systems and fragile vegetation • and micro-environments. They are also Natural surfaces may be more be considered to separate users landscapes that are highly valued by appropriate in more natural contexts. travelling in opposite directions the community and susceptible to visual • Explore opportunities for • Safety: Urban trails are often used intrusion. Given these sensitivities, incorporating other infrastructure by young children learning to ride additional care needs to be taken in requirements (e.g. gross pollutant as well as parents with prams. The the planning, design and construction traps) into the trail design process. design of the trail should take into phases to minimise environmental and • Don’t over-engineer: minimise visual account the likely inexperience visual impacts. intrusion by keeping structures, and vulnerability of some users by earthworks, vegetation clearance, trail considering ‘worst case scenarios’. Factors to consider include16: widths, signage, etc. to a minimum. • Steeply sloping trails located near • Avoid locating trails in unstable dunal • Incorporate a sense of place into systems, or where the construction creeks and lakes should be avoided the design. Reflect the unique of the trail is likely to contribute to or carefully addressed with specific features and character of an area by such conditions. design solutions. Similarly, blind using local materials, interpreting corners which can obscure views of the history of the area, public art, oncoming, fast-moving cyclists should signage, furniture, etc. be avoided. Special consideration should be given to the safety aspects of bridges, boardwalks and sections 15 Austroads 2014 16 Government South Australia 2007 17 Government South Australia 2007
50 GUIDELINES FOR TRAIL PLANNING, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT ELEMENT 8 ELEMENT 9 ELEMENT 10 ELEMENT 11 ELEMENT 12 APPENDICES Trail Building Maintaining Education and Orientation classification successful trails successful trails interpretation and safety and standards ELEMENT 9 – Building successful trails successful 9 – Building ELEMENT of the trail located on elevated land. Access for emergency vehicles such as ambulances should also be provided. • Lighting: It may be appropriate to light some sections of the trail, especially in close proximity to areas which people congregate at night such as shopping centres and large reserves. Other measures should be adopted to improve the safety of users such as removing thick vegetation close to the trail behind which people can hide and maintaining clear and open lines 9.18 Managing 9.19 Other support of sight. user conflicts facilities • Signage: A signage strategy should be developed to clearly mark the trail, On-trail conflicts often develop when Other various support facilities may be inform users of their responsibilities information provision and education required for trail users. These needs and identify interpretation is inadequate. Sometimes conflict can will vary depending on the nature of opportunities occur between legitimate users, while the trail, the user group(s), and the • Interface with traffic: Any point where on other occasions it may be between location of the trail. If possible, it may the trail crosses a public road or the legitimate user group or groups and be preferable to align the trail so that it interacts with traffic must be designed ‘illegal’ users. In both cases, information connects with already existing facilities carefully and in accordance with and education are the key tools for trail to avoid duplication and additional recognised engineering standards. managers and enforcement should only costs. Generally these facilities should • Provision of facilities: The location, be used as a last resource. be located at control points. size and design of facilities associated Single-use trails should be clearly Parking facilities for cars may need to with urban trails are important signposted as such at all access points. be provided at the trail head. If so, the considerations. People will be more Brochures, maps and media material range of considerations will include: likely to use the trail if well-designed should also reinforce the message that • the expected volume of traffic likely facilities such as parking areas, this is a single-use trail. It is extremely to be generated at peak periods seating placed at regular intervals, helpful to explain why this is the case. • safe and convenient access from the toilets and picnic areas are provided. For example, it may be that the trail adjoining road network, as well as Where possible, use should be made passes through land that has limitations suitable of existing facilities. on access due to its tenure, or the • circulation space • Environmental: Urban trails are nature of the environment or the trail • surface preparation of the car parking often located in environmentally design itself may preclude some users. degraded areas such as alongside area to minimise runoff, dust, and weed invested creeks. While the Shared-use trails should have built-in boggy construction of the trail may be the the provision of adequate information • conditions catalyst to achieve environmental during the planning phase. Common • landscaping to minimise the rehabilitation, it is important than guidelines should be developed for visual impact. an ongoing maintenance regime ‘who gives way to whom’ on shared use trails. Signage and information Watering points and drinking water is established. This should include may need to be provided and it is the regular slashing and removal of reinforcing these rules of trail etiquette should be prominent on the trail and important to consider the ongoing weeds, revegetation initiatives and maintenance requirements if water the monitoring of water quality. in any public information. If conflict develops, it is worth getting the tanks are needed to ensure a reliable, For further information go to different groups together to talk about all-year water supply. Trail users can also http://www.austroads.com.au/ their issues and potential solutions. It be directed to trail friendly businesses road-operations/bicycles/resources/cycli may be that the conflict is identifying where free drinking water is available. ng-aspects-to-austroads-guides some weakness in the trail design.
GUIDELINES FOR TRAIL PLANNING, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT 51 ELEMENT 8 ELEMENT 9 ELEMENT 10 ELEMENT 11 ELEMENT 12 APPENDICES Trail Building Maintaining Education and Orientation classification successful trails successful trails interpretation and safety and standards
Any shelters provided should be 9.21 Camping terrain of the trail, availability of designed, sited and constructed to existing infrastructure and the minimise their visual impact and Camping facilities may be appropriate location of townships or attractions minimise ongoing maintenance on long distance trails. Factors to along the route requirements. The shelter could consider in planning for such facilities For further information on facility double as a location for interpretive or will include: design go to: directional signage. • minimising visual impacts: choose already cleared areas if possible http://www.vcc.vic.gov.au/assets/media/ 9.20 Toilets • the need for level ground that files/sitingdesignguidelines.pdf drains well The provision of toilet facilities should, http://www.designmanual.com.au/ • the need for vehicular access by download-idm generally, relate to the anticipated maintenance crew, emergency number of users of the trail and its services or commercial operators proximity to urban areas or other • whether the levels of usage or local recreational and visitor attractions. climatic conditions along the trail Preferably, toilets should be provided at justify the provision of huts or shelters trail heads, which, in an urban setting, • the potential for vandalism of are often ideally located at a larger PART B – Trail Design Guidelines B – Trail PART camping areas and associated reserve containing other structured facilities and unstructured recreational facilities. In rural settings, trail heads • the need for associated facilities which are located within townships, such as toilets, water, etc. If facilities settlements, visitor information centres are not provided at camping areas or other tourist attractions provide (particularly water and toilets), this an opportunity to take advantage should be clearly stated on any of existing toilet facilities. Where relevant signage, maps or promotional new toilet facilities are required, the material associated with the trail visual impact of structures, access for • distances between camping areas: maintenance, and the proximity of to typically, distances between camping watercourses should be considered. areas will be determined by the
52 GUIDELINES FOR TRAIL PLANNING, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT ELEMENT 8 ELEMENT 9 ELEMENT 10 ELEMENT 11 ELEMENT 12 APPENDICES Trail Building Maintaining Education and Orientation classification successful trails successful trails interpretation and safety and standards
Element 10 Maintaining successful trails ELEMENT 10 – Maintaining successful trails successful 10 – Maintaining ELEMENT 10.1 Introduction standards for each trail under their The trail management plan must outline management. This is a key process a professional program of management Even the best constructed trail will in the development of maintenance and must clearly define who is require maintenance if it is to remain plan and is shaped by community responsible for what. In many cases sustainable. This section identifies the need - as identified through ongoing trail projects involve a number of land factors affecting the maintenance of community engagement activities, and managers and it is therefore crucial that trails and the principles of maintenance agency priorities. all organisations know and agree what planning. The content in this section their role and responsibility is. is strongly linked to Element 6 – Trail The risk assessment should measure Monitoring and Review (refer Element 6). the condition of the trail against the A useful example is the Goulburn River walking trail or cycling classification High Country Rail Trail Management Ongoing trail maintenance is a and level so service to ensure the trail Plan crucial component of an effective meets the expectation of the user, the http://www.murrindindi.vic.gov. management program. Typical/ duty of care of the trail manager, reflect au/Things_to_see_and_do/Great_ common trail maintenance rates for the trail vision and protect the trail Victorian_Rail_Trail unsealed trails are $1,000 to $1,500 per and environmental values. The plan kilometre; or 2% to 6% of the capital should identify the priorities for trail cost of the trail depending on wether, maintenance and enable trail managers soil type, construction standards to direct resources to priority works. and use. The opportunity exists to minimise future maintenance demands A trail management plan should include through careful planning, good initial the following elements as a minimum: construction and foresight. A clear, • philosophical background to trail concise trail management plan should development be prepared to direct priorities and • a statement of guiding principles resources. (class, category, etc.) • trail construction ‘standards’ 10.2 Trail management • target user groups and user plan experiences • levels of service A trail management plan should • risk management policy include hazard identification and risk • hazard inspection timetable assessment approach to monitoring • promotional and interpretation policy trails and be undertaken by trained • group usage policy and guidelines trail maintenance staff. Defining the • level of service required to maintain a annual trail maintenance program • Table 8 provides a guide for trail trail is an important component of a clarification of management roles and maintenance and indicates factors management plan. The Level of Service responsibilities affecting trails and considerations for is the defined service quality for a • promotional mapping and brochures: trail managers. It is not a definitive list particular class of trail against which guiding principles and is to be used to assist managers in service performance may be measured. • fire management and emergency the development of specific integrated Service levels usually relate to quality, evacuation procedures. trail maintenance programs. The table quantity, reliability, responsiveness, A timetable and process for reviewing has been provided in two parts due environmental acceptability and cost. and updating the plan should be set, to the quite different requirements The trail manager and associated with annual reviews and three (or five) between natural earth trails and partners must determine the level year updates recommended. formed trails such as those constructed of service and the quality and cost from bitumen.
GUIDELINES FOR TRAIL PLANNING, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT 53 ELEMENT 8 ELEMENT 9 ELEMENT 10 ELEMENT 11 ELEMENT 12 APPENDICES Trail Building Maintaining Education and Orientation classification successful trails successful trails interpretation and safety and standards
Table 8: Factors affecting the maintenance of natural surface trails
Maintenance Maintenance Trail factors Maintenance issue Risk implications implications strategy Trail purpose Maintenance will Duty of care is required Higher level of Trail maintenance standards need to ensure trails to ensure trails are maintenance diligence programs to be and grades are maintained to the maintained to grades/ will be required for developed that reflect defined walking trail standards. Users have trails with significant the consideration grades or mountain chosen trails based on infrastructure e.g. of the user and trail bike trail types and their level of comfort level one walking trails grades/standards difficulty rating system and approach to risk with sealed paths and levels (see Element 7) bridges AS 2156 sets out minimum inspection frequencies for each PART B – Trail Design Guidelines B – Trail PART class of trail Defined levels of service are a useful mechanism to determine maintenance levels Trail surface Trail surface design Poor surface design Trails with steep Good trail surface will and construction has increases duty of care gradient, poor water lessen maintenance. greatest influence on issues and impacts on management or do not Poorly designed trail maintenance and trail management resources fit grade/standards will surface will require class/standards and user satisfaction be a maintenance and upgrade or consider management burden decommission Environmental Trail surface design Risk of impact on Good trail design will Environmental considerations and construction has ecosystems and reduce runoff and protection key significant influence habitats if trails being well designed consideration in on environmental poorly designed will encourage users to trail management. protection particularly and maintained e.g. remain on the trail and Sustainable trails where trails and trail runoff impacting on not create new trails or will protect the users access sensitive vegetation or users desire lines environment poorly areas off trail planned, constructed or maintained trails in sensitive areas are unacceptable Vegetation Vegetation provides Encroaching veg can Overhanging veg can Major maintenance the landscape setting be a risk to users level affect user experience impact on trails. and enhances the trail of risk relates to what and push users off trail Treatment needs to be corridor major effect is appropriate for trail tread, creating new effective and lasting on trail however class/standard trails, braiding and e.g. sympathetic trim risk. Veg management to base of stem in needs to be effective defined trail alignment but not excessive area. Requires site specific vegetation management policy Water Water in wet areas Can create significant If trails not well In regions with either if not managed damage to tracks designed lots of rain very high or very low effectively has the affecting all areas of can lead to water – annual rainfall trail may greatest impact on trail risk including political caused erosion. Low need to be designed sustainability risk from trail closures rain levels can lead with gentler trail to very dry and loose grades to reduce trail tread surfaces maintenance. Focus on effective trail design for water management
54 GUIDELINES FOR TRAIL PLANNING, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT ELEMENT 8 ELEMENT 9 ELEMENT 10 ELEMENT 11 ELEMENT 12 APPENDICES Trail Building Maintaining Education and Orientation classification successful trails successful trails interpretation and safety and standards ELEMENT 10 – Maintaining successful trails successful 10 – Maintaining ELEMENT
Maintenance Maintenance Trail factors Maintenance issue Risk implications implications strategy
Displacement Movement of trail Change in trail shape Increased maintenance Greater displacement material through use can increase risk of requirement if not of material and trail wearing trails and damage and user rectified shape change can be causing trail shape satisfaction and risk due to increased or change. issues change in use. May require monitoring of trail use and upgrade
Compactions Pressure on trail When unplanned Compaction when Compaction of path material can be a track can increase risk unplanned can change material when planned formation strategy or of damage, user trail profile and create and undertaken by from traffic. Unplanned satisfaction and risk rut encouraging water builders correctly will change trail tread issues flow where it is not is effective. When shape wanted resulting in unplanned will cause damage maintenance issues consider upgrade
Trail users Well-designed trails will Trail users choose Maintenance should When planning for be appreciated by users and use trails to the be commensurate with trails as discussed and be used in the grade/standard that the class/standard of in Element 3 class/ manner intended fits their comfort and the trail. Trail users standard of trail and ability and expect the will expect the trail expectation of the trail condition and and trail information users is an important maintenance to fit to be provided and consideration as is maintained maintenance.
Budget and Trail managers need Risk will increase where Resources should be Resources can include resources to plan for resources resources are not available to manage volunteers and required for the available or resources the trails sustainably trail users working maintenance of cannot keep up with and commensurate under and agreed sustainable trails trail maintenance with the class/standard maintenance plan. commitments of trails Strategic approach required for long term maintenance and upgrades
Trail Other than trail Significant potential Often requires Trail infrastructure infrastructure tread there is often risk which requires technical assistance should be used on trails significant investment monitoring, often beyond local that fits with the class/ e.g. bridges, signs and documentation and resources to ensure standard of the trail. car parks addressing of issues built infrastructure Need to allow for life associated with built is checked and cycle maintenance of infrastructure maintained to infrastructure. Strong standards link to duty of care
Knowledge, Training and Key staff are Staff and volunteers Trail management skills and development of key fundamental in are the eyes and ears of includes a focus on skill expertise staff and volunteers ensuring user trails. Effective training development to ensure in contemporary trail satisfaction, duty of and understanding of effective maintenance management vitally care and effective trail design principles is programs are delivered. important maintenance essential Use of skilled trail contractors is also a wise investment for upgrades
GUIDELINES FOR TRAIL PLANNING, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT 55 ELEMENT 8 ELEMENT 9 ELEMENT 10 ELEMENT 11 ELEMENT 12 APPENDICES Trail Building Maintaining Education and Orientation classification successful trails successful trails interpretation and safety and standards
Table 9: Factors affecting the maintenance of smooth surface trails (usually bitumen) – Cycle Routes and Grade 1 Walking Trails
Maintenance Maintenance Trail factors Maintenance issue Risk implications implications strategy Trail purpose Cycling touring routes Potential for speeds Maintenance of trail that Effective trail standards and will require different 30 km/h and greater to standards for trails maintenance grades approach due to types on down slopes and designed for use by programs need to be of users and high speed interaction with road cyclists and a variety of developed that reflect cycles. Sealed Grade 1 traffic and other users. users including people the enjoyment and walking trails are built Standards for people with disabilities consideration of the to provide recreation with disabilities need to users, trail grades/ access for people with be maintained to ensure standards, the potential disabilities safe access for high speed mixing with other users
PART B – Trail Design Guidelines B – Trail PART and interaction at intersections with vehicle traffic Trail surface, Smooth surface with High speed, interaction Focus on cracks, pot A strong commitment alignment and clear sight lines, and with other users holes, breaking trail to programmed clearance clearance are required and disabled access edge encroaching maintenance including for safe enjoyable use require clear focus on vegetation, and debris monitoring to be maintenance on trail. applied to these trails due to trail activity and financial investment in the trail Trail Orientation and safety Nature of potential use Monitoring and quick Development of systems infrastructure signs and associated including speed and attention to orientation for the monitoring infrastructure to be interaction with other and safety signs and and maintenance of maintained to the users and traffic requires other safety features trail infrastructure to appropriate standards maintenance of signs e.g. condition of bridges ensure standards are for trail grade and other infrastructure and fencing important. maintained for the to high standard Maintenance of life cycle of the trail infrastructure important important trail assets to protect asset and ensure users respect and enjoy trail experience Budget and Trail managers need to Appropriate funding Maintenance planning Strong commitment to resources be aware of ongoing critical for trail including a strong strategic monitoring and costs of maintaining maintenance and to monitoring component maintenance is a key smooth surface trails to ensure duty of care should be applied to factor in the planning ensure standards and ensure the identification of future trails. Repair safety are maintained of priority safety and and replacement costs user enjoyment issues need to be considered are addressed within in business planning and budget constraints life cycle planning for future trails of this kind. Knowledge, High level of Training and Development of Explore opportunities skills and expertise required development of staff committed and for long term expertise in the monitoring and volunteers in enthusiastic monitoring monitoring and and development of monitoring systems and and maintenance maintenance program systems to prioritise initiating repairs will resource is vital. Explore involving trail partners maintenance works contribute to the safety opportunities for trail and users which include and enjoyment of trail users and stakeholders training and skill users to be involved in aspects development. of protection of the trail and the experience
56 GUIDELINES FOR TRAIL PLANNING, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT ELEMENT 8 ELEMENT 9 ELEMENT 10 ELEMENT 11 ELEMENT 12 APPENDICES Trail Building Maintaining Education and Orientation classification successful trails successful trails interpretation and safety and standards ELEMENT 10 – Maintaining successful trails successful 10 – Maintaining ELEMENT
10.3 Hazard 10.4 Plant diseases assessment and weeds Hazard inspection is crucial to the Areas that are infected by diseases such ongoing management program of a trail. as Phytophthora cinnamoni (PC) should Not only will this play an obvious part be managed and monitored by avoiding in defining maintenance activities and/ contact with and transfer of affected or management decisions, it will be vital soils and by implementing hygiene in dealing with any liability claim which programs to prevent its introduction may arise in the future. The identification and spreading. of hazards, the controls in place and treatments (risk management audit) is It’s always preferable to locate trails an integral process to trail management. away from affected areas. If this isn’t Annual reviews are desirable. possible, introduce measures such as the use of boardwalks or modified Typical items to include on a hazard/risk trail surfaces, such as rock and crushed Inspection form could include: gravel, to prevent soil transfer. It may • adequacy of warning (and other) also be necessary to install hygiene signage, especially at road crossings stations for the washing of shoes and • dead trees and/or overhanging limbs bikes as entry and exit points. Provide • slippery rock or clay sections information for trail users on adopting • exposed tree roots or other appropriate hygiene practices at significant ‘tripping’ threats key locations.18 • security of viewing platforms and other structures. Risk management assessment (in accordance with AS/NZS ISO 31000:2009 Risk Management) should be applied to the wider range of trail risks including asset management, human resources, financial resources, OHS, communication, and contract management. 18 Sustainable Recreational Trail Guidelines South Australia
GUIDELINES FOR TRAIL PLANNING, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT 57 ELEMENT 8 ELEMENT 9 ELEMENT 10 ELEMENT 11 ELEMENT 12 APPENDICES Trail Building Maintaining Education and Orientation classification successful trails successful trails interpretation and safety and standards
Element 11 Education and interpretation
11.1 Planning trail What are you interpreting? What media will you use? interpretation Think carefully about what you want to It is only at this stage that you should interpret. The key question is: What is choose your media. Let your aims, Trails present outstanding opportunities special about the trail, features of the resources, audience, site characteristics, for education and interpretation. People trail or area through which is passes? themes and objectives determine what involved in enjoyable choice-driven In addition, you should also consider: media you use, not the other way round. activities are open to learning, or at What visitor facilities (like car parks, least to being informed. This section access, signage and toilets) are already provides useful information to help How will your provided, or will be in future? What you produce successful interpretation interpretation be other interpretation is available in the for trails and maximise the use of area? What staff, money and other implemented? limited resources. resources are available? You’ll need to cost and timetable the Planning is the bedrock of good interpretation, and identify who will
PART B – Trail Design Guidelines B – Trail PART interpretation. Interpretive planning Who are you manage it. Consider what can be happens at many different scales - from interpreting for? done in house and what will need to a whole region to a single display. be contracted out. Interpretation is a Remember your interpretive plan It is essential to understand your visitors skilled process and you should chose will have to fit in with any business, so that your interpretation is relevant to writers and designers with experience marketing or visitor management plans them. Who are your visitors? Why do of producing good quality work. Do not that may exist for the region or area they come? How many are there? How be tempted to write material yourself within which the trail is located. An often do they come? Where are they without adequate training. See the interpretation plan should include the from? What interests them? How long guidance notes on interpretive writing following elements as a minimum: do they stay? for more detailed help. For example, if you have lots of families What are your objectives? and school groups you could do How will it be monitored Objectives state clearly what something specific for children or if you and evaluated? your interpretation is to achieve. have international visitors you could translate some of your interpretation. It is important to assess whether your You might have some emotional interpretation meets the objectives you objectives, behavioural objectives or set. Some evaluation can be undertaken even promotional objectives. They What stories do you want as you develop the interpretation to should be specific, measurable and to tell? test its effectiveness. Otherwise, you achievable. Objectives are essential to It is helpful to refine what you want should check how well it’s working justify the resources to be spent on to communicate into ‘themes’. These once installed. Any changes should feed the interpretation, and are a critical are the ideas that you want visitors to into your next interpretive programme. reference for your future evaluation. take away with them. Themes should See the guidance notes on evaluating be stated as complete sentences that interpretation for more detailed help. Who should be involved in contain one main idea. You might the interpretive process? interpret several main themes at a How will it be maintained? single site. As a guide, you should It is important that the right people are It is important to have clear responsibilities be able to complete the following involved in the interpretive planning for maintaining and eventually replacing sentence for each theme: “The thing process. There may be several agencies, the interpretation. Maintenance might I want people to take away from this aboriginal traditional owners, local include things like clearing vegetation interpretation is...... ” communities and voluntary groups who around a panel, cleaning panels, and should be involved. If so, you will need making sure that they are in good to decide how they can have an input. condition following major weather events At the other end of the scale, only one such as flood or bushfire. person may be needed to plan a simple piece of interpretation.
58 GUIDELINES FOR TRAIL PLANNING, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT ELEMENT 8 ELEMENT 9 ELEMENT 10 ELEMENT 11 ELEMENT 12 APPENDICES Trail Building Maintaining Education and Orientation classification successful trails successful trails interpretation and safety and standards ELEMENT 11 – Education and interpretation 11 and – Education ELEMENT 11.2 Producing Critical Trail Tip 9 – Creating great interpretive panels interpretive panels Follow these simple steps to producing better interpretive panels. Before you design and produce Text an interpretive panel it, you must • People decide in seconds whether they will read your panel so it must look make sure that a panel really is the attractive and be accessible at a glance. best solution for your interpretation • Write in a lively and conversational style in short sentences and paragraphs. objectives. Well produced and sited • Avoid jargon and technical terms. panels can be extremely effective but • Relate to your audience by referring to them as ‘you’. badly produced and wrongly sited • Use active rather than passive verbs (e.g. ‘we manage’ is far better than ‘this panels are often counterproductive. site is managed by’). Good interpretive panels use an • Use metaphors, analogies and comparisons Use humour, poetry and prose. imaginative combination of text and • Show your text to someone who doesn’t know the subject to see whether visuals to tell a story about an object or your message is coming across loud and clear. place. Contrast this with an information panel which only contains instructions Visuals or directions. Here are guidelines: Visuals can be photographs, drawings or illustrations. They have important roles in communicating with your audience. Keep it simple – The best panels • are often the simplest. A single panel Visuals should illustrate something the visitor can’t already see for themselves. should communicate one or two main • Drawings are often better at illustrating something than photos. messages. Panels that try to do too • All illustrations should have a clear relationship with the text. much will be ignored. As a guide, you • All illustrations should be clearly labelled or annotated. should aim for a maximum of 200 • Allow sufficient time and money to research and source visuals. Commission words per panel, and a simple and drawings if necessary and pay copyright fees. attractive design. Maps Layer your message – Layering • makes your message more accessible to If a map is needed on an interpretive panel it must be clear and everyone. Research shows that people easily understood. look at adverts (and panels) in the • Make sure you have copyright clearance for the map. following order: • Only include information that is really necessary. 1. The headline (use minimum 12mm, • Make sure the map is large enough for the panel. 60-72 point text size) • Make sure the design is clear and easily understood. Consider using an 2. The main picture oblique ‘3-D’ map if possible. 3. Sub headings (use minimum 8mm, Design and production 48-60 point text size) • Always involve your designer at the earliest stage and provide them with 4. Bullet points all relevant information about your panel such as why, who for, the site 5. Further illustrations (use minimum layout etc. 5mm, 24 point text size) • At an early stage you should decide what materials you want to use for the 6. The main text (use minimum 5mm, panel by considering what will best enhance the on-site experience and 24 point text size) blend with the surroundings. • A number of production techniques are available depending on your design, budget and desired lifespan of the panel. Most manufacturers can provide up-to-date technical advice on each technique they offer. • Make sure your panel is properly maintained by keeping its surfaces clean, tightening all fittings and cutting encroaching vegetation etc.
GUIDELINES FOR TRAIL PLANNING, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT 59 ELEMENT 8 ELEMENT 9 ELEMENT 10 ELEMENT 11 ELEMENT 12 APPENDICES Trail Building Maintaining Education and Orientation classification successful trails successful trails interpretation and safety and standards
Element 12 Orientation and safety
12.1 Using signs to Table 10: Types of trail messages used for trail signage communicate Information There are many safety and management messages that must AS 2156.1 - 2001 Walking Tracks: Messages be communicated to trail user. Since each trail has its own set of issues, the messages must be made relevant to each Classification and Signage provides a particular trail. The more developed and lower grade/standard classification system for walking tracks. of walking trail will need to have more information available The Standard also provides guidance than will the higher grade, more remote tracks. on the design, fabrication and use of trail markers, and information signs Basic trail There is basic information that should be presented for all trails information either in pre-trip information, web sites, guide books, or via to be used for walking trails. This sign systems. Basic information includes the trail name grade section provides further information on and distance, and any major hazards. The more significant and trail signage. highly developed, walking trails (Class 1-4) walks should also have some interpretative descriptions of the track. Visitors want signs to direct, inform and It is recommended that the standard walking track Department PART B – Trail Design Guidelines B – Trail PART to help interpret their surroundings. Personal contact is the most desirable of Sustainability and Environments (2010) Sign Manual be used form of communication but it is neither as a consistent standard for basic trail information signs and the sign standards provided in the Cycling Aspects of Austroads possible nor desirable to manage Guides (2014) be used for cycling paths. trails in such a way that all messages are conveyed personally. As signs Safety Warning signs are vital where there is a reasonably foreseeable are almost always one-way forms messages risk, even if it may be remote; and where a hazard might not of communication they will only be be obvious to a visitor (DSE 2010). When considering the use of warning signs or other warning messages it is advisable effective if they: that agencies and community trail builders seek advice from • are clearly written with a simple qualified risk assessors as to the best approach to minimize risk. message • meet the primary needs of the visitor • are easily absorbed and understood 12.2 Sign systems 12.3 Walking track • are aesthetically sympathetic • meet the needs of the land A sign system is a means of classification and management agency communicating messages to visitors signage in a structured, organised way. Once The trip cycle is a useful way of established, a system of standard sign AS 2156.1 - 2001 Walking Tracks: placing the visitor in the visiting cycle designs allows extension and updating Classification and Signage provides when planning visitor information and moreover, instant recognition of guidance on the design, fabrication and and interpretation. each sign as part of the system. A use of trail markers, and information signs to be used for walking trails. The trip cycle consists of: sign system depends on uniform and consistent application of pictograms, • pre-trip – before leaving for the In relation to trail markers, the key lettering, words and forms regardless trail destination; recommendations of AS 21.56.1 – of location and differing environments. • orientation – while in the general 2001 are: However, any sign system, no matter area of the trail; • directional arrows should be how well designed, no matter how positioned on a square background • on-trail – while engaging in the trail carefully explained, will fail if the spirit of a minimum of 90mm by 90mm activity; and of the system is not adhered to. • • post-trip – after completing the directional arrows should either activity. be at ninety or forty-five degree angles only Sign classes include • Orientation • Risk • Management • Interpretation (refer Element 11)
60 GUIDELINES FOR TRAIL PLANNING, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT ELEMENT 8 ELEMENT 9 ELEMENT 10 ELEMENT 11 ELEMENT 12 APPENDICES Trail Building Maintaining Education and Orientation classification successful trails successful trails interpretation and safety and standards safety and 12 – Orientation ELEMENT • trail markers should be designed that trail users are easily able to find • dangerous places, obstacles and for durability and should be made their way. This is equally applicable in other elements along or adjoining the of either aluminium alloy (at least both urban and rural setting trail including warnings; 1.6mm thick) or galvanised steel (at • AS 2156.1 – 2001 also provides behavioural considerations; least 1mm thick) • guidance on the design of signs distance and estimated completion • markers should have a reflective finish which provide information in relation time for the trail (including whether it to assist with night-time identification to advisory notes, description of the is one-way or return); and should be of a colour that is trail, interpretation of attractions, • topographical and climatic conditions clearly visible within the landscape relevant regulations and warnings. that should be considered prior while also considering the effects of More commonly known as interpretive to departure; weathering (e.g. blue, yellow, orange or education signs (refer Element 11), • availability of facilities such as toilets; and red) information or orientation signs are • opening and closing times of the trail; • the intervals at which trail markers an essential element of trail design and are placed should be in accordance and, while they should be individually • the overall route of the trail (e.g. with trail classification and local tailored to suit the particular purpose maps at the trail head and at site conditions such as vegetation, and geographical circumstances of the key locations). topography and weather trail, should include information about: • trail markers should be placed at • required equipment and safety 12.4 Sign plans a consistent height above ground precautions (e.g. footwear, hat, water (between 0-2 metres) and should supply, etc.); The provision of information and the relate to topographical conditions • the classification of the trail and a consistent presentation of messages It is important that trail markers are description of the skill and fitness in a systematic way require a level of clearly visible from the point of view level required to complete the trail; planning. The development of a sign of the trail user. The dimensions and • environmental and cultural plan for a trail or network of trails colours of directional arrows as well as sensitivities such as habitat areas and will vary in complexity depending on the installation height and frequency of places of Aboriginal significance; the trail objectives, messages and the markers should be designed to ensure extent of trail infrastructure.
GUIDELINES FOR TRAIL PLANNING, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT 61 ELEMENT 8 ELEMENT 9 ELEMENT 10 ELEMENT 11 ELEMENT 12 APPENDICES Trail Building Maintaining Education and Orientation classification successful trails successful trails interpretation and safety and standards
Table 11: Principles for trail sign planning
Major Major trailheads are located at central locations including visitor centres, major car parks and visitor Trailheads information centres or park offices. They communicate key trail information to visitors including trail grades, enabling selection of a trail best suited to the user’s ability and interests and may provide interpretation. Visitors are also directed to specific trailheads from this point. Major trailheads may not be appropriate or easily accommodated in some locations e.g. in some parks or on private land and trail grades will have influence on appropriateness of major trail heads, with higher grades (e.g. grade 4 and 5) major trail heads may not be appropriate on any but significant nationally or state important trails on most local trails minor trailheads will suffice. The minimum amount of trail information on a trail head should include: • Trail name • Trail type (e.g. loop, one way) • Distance in kilometres • Time to complete • Gradient PART B – Trail Design Guidelines B – Trail PART • Quality of path • Symbol displaying trail grade (e.g. hiking, or mountain bike difficulty) • Relevant safety information Minor Located to identify the start point for trails or can be used as sectional trail heads on long distance trails to Trailheads signify and provide information for the forthcoming section. They communicate the distance, classification, duration, terrain and safety information to the user (as above for major trail head). These trailheads usually deal with one trail but may include information for up to three trails on one sign. The function of trailhead signs is to orientate visitors and help them select a suitable trail. They are not intended to be interpretive but should provide a guide to the challenges and expectations for the trail ahead. Trail Markers Rudimentary paintwork on rocks or metal plates nailed to trees are techniques previously used to mark trails. These inappropriate techniques do not reflect where we are going with trails and are not considered adequate to manage safety of trail users. Markers are exposed to extreme conditions such as the wind and salt of coastal areas and the intense heat of the arid inland and fires. There is also the ongoing challenge of fixing trail markers where they are most needed to be seen for example in rugged mountain ranges. The Department of Sustainability and Environment (2010) established design standards for use in public land under their management which are suitable for other agencies across Victoria. These signs compliment a range of trail information and direction signs across Australia that comply with Australian Standards Walking Trail Classification and Signage (AS 2156.1). These signs are generally unobtrusive yet visible, durable, and require little maintenance. Risk The trail manager in consultation with risk managers should decide if there is a need for the risk sign Management to be placed on the trail and the decision will be influenced by the grading of the trail for example a Signs Grade 5 trail will attract self-reliant walkers who would be advised of what to expect on the trail and would not necessarily expect or need cliff edge warning signs whereas a Grade one or two trail would need to provide a higher level of awareness on the trail. Risk signs are not the only course of action as other actions or combinations of actions such as removing the risk, or separating the user from the risk may lower the risk to an acceptable level. Risk signs can be basic standard recreational warning symbols (presented by a yellow triangle with black symbols and borders) or with increasing risk can be a more detailed sign using danger and warning headers with three potential messages to mitigate risk which include: • a signal (DANGER or WARNING headers) • a statement of the exact nature of the risk • how to avoid the risk (optional)
62 GUIDELINES FOR TRAIL PLANNING, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT ELEMENT 8 ELEMENT 9 ELEMENT 10 ELEMENT 11 ELEMENT 12 APPENDICES Trail Building Maintaining Education and Orientation classification successful trails successful trails interpretation and safety and standards safety and 12 – Orientation ELEMENT The DSE Signage Manual (2010) provides a useful resource to guide the development of trail sign systems
Examples of Standard Trail Infrastructure STEP 2 from DSE Signage Manual STEP 2
Figure 11: Site Entrance
REC Site Entrance REC 04 Site• Third Entrance level signage for DSE forest areas 04 • ThirdUsed atlevel entrance signage points for DSE to picnicforest areas and • Usedcamping at entrance grounds pointsmanaged to picnic by DSE areas and • campingGenerally grounds read from managed low speed by DSEvehicles • GenerallyCan accomodate read from standard low speed Recreation vehicles off– • Canshelf accomodatesymbol standard Recreation off– • shelfNote: symbol Do not add ‘Picnic Area’, ‘Camping • Note:Area’ toDo the not site add name. ‘Picnic Promoted Area’, ‘Camping activities / Area’facilities to arethe explainedsite name. by Promoted use of symbols activities / facilities are explained by use of symbols
Figure 12: Trackhead for pedestrians & horse riders REC Trackhead for pedestrians 05REC Trackhead& horse riders for pedestrians 05 &• Usedhorse at entrance riders points to recreational • Usedtracks at for entrance walking points & horse to ridingrecreational managed tracksby DSE for walking & horse riding managed • byGenerally DSE read by walkers and not from • Generallyvehicles read by walkers and not from • vehiclesIncludes track name & descriptive • Includesinformation track for name users & descriptive • informationCan accomodate for users standard Recreation off– • Canshelf accomodatesymbols standard Recreation off– • shelfThe sign symbols panel able to be used (i.e. • Thealuminium sign panel or timber) able to depends be used on(i.e. the panel aluminiumheight. Refer or Steptimber) 3–REC depends 05 on the panel height. Refer Step 3–REC 05
REC Directional / Information 06REC Directionalfor vehicles / Information GUIDELINES FOR TRAIL PLANNING, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT 63 06 for• To bevehicles used on forest roads & internal road • Tonetwork be used within on forest visitor roads sites & internal road • networkTo be viewed within by visitor vehicles sites generally travelling • Toat lowbe viewed speeds by vehicles generally travelling • atCan low only speeds accomodate standard Recreation • Canoff–shelf only symbolsaccomodate standard Recreation • off–shelfNo text symbols • No text
DSE Signage Manual 9 DSE Signage Manual 9 ELEMENT 8 ELEMENT 9 ELEMENT 10 ELEMENT 11 ELEMENT 12 APPENDICES Trail Building Maintaining Education and Orientation classification successful trails successful trails interpretation and safety and standards
STEP 2 STEP 2 Figure 13: Directional / Information for pedestrians, mountain bikes & horse riders
REC Directional / Information 07REC Interpretivefor pedestrians, (Custom) mountain 10 • bikesUsed to & deliver horse interpretive riders information at • keyTo be locations used along along walking recreational tracks, tracks mountain or visitorbike tracks sites and horse trails • GenerallyRead by walkers, read by horsepedestrians & mountain & not bikefrom vehiclesriders • SizeCan andaccomodate format may standard vary Recreation off– • Refershelf symbolsto STEP 3–REC 10 for examples
PART B – Trail Design Guidelines B – Trail PART • No text
Figure 14: Information Shelter Board Sample only REC Message Specific Straddle REC 08 • InformationGenerally used at visitorShelter sites, alongBoard 11 • Usedrecreational to deliver tracks general and atvisitor points information of interest • Generally(area map, read local from info, low things speed to seevehicles and do)and byat visitorwalkers sites and at trackheads • MayGenerally be used read where by pedestrians a symbol on a totem A0 size board • Designedmay be inadequate to fit within to communicateDSE standard the informationrequired message shelter • ReferCan be to used STEP with 3–REC standard 11 for Recreationexample off– shelf symbols to reinforce the message • If further explanation is required, consider using Rec 14 – Message Specific (Other) or Rec 12 – Temporary Sign • See also Rec 13 – Warning Signs
Sample only REC ExamplesREC TemporaryDirectionalof simple and Straddle intuitive for use Non–Motorised Users Use1209 of the design• Used is easy to deliver to understand, specific message(s)regardless at of a the user’s experience, knowledge, language skills, or current concentration• levelGenerallyspecific location used at thatmid–track may only or atbe track relevant intersectionsfor a specific to (or reassure limited) walkers time period Figure 15: Risk• GenerallySizesymbols and format used(DSE where 2010)may vary track depending names are on requiredwhether to guidebe viewed walkers by pedestriansor where track or Figure 16: Moreusersfrom detailed vehiclesmay have risk to (Danger cross a road and and Warning) a larger signs (DEH 2009). • Maysign (i.ebe printedstraddle onto not totem)temporary is required material to (i.e.keep paper, visitors laminated on track paper or corflute) or more permanent lasting material such as metal where the sign may be re–used at other locations (i.e. revegetation, campfire safety, etc) Sample only • Refer to STEP 3–REC 12 for commonly used examples
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Appendix 1 The Seven Principles of Universal Design
Principle Definition Guideline
1. Equitable Use The design is useful and 1a. Provide the same means of use for all users: identical whenever marketable to people with possible; equivalent when not. diverse abilities. 1b. Avoid segregating or stigmatizing any users. 1c. Provisions for privacy, security, and safety should be equally available to all users. 1d. Make the design appealing to all users.
2. Flexibility The design accommodates 2a. Provide choice in methods of use. in Use a wide range of individual 2b. Accommodate right- or left-handed access and use. preferences and abilities. 2c. Facilitate the user’s accuracy and precision. 2d. Provide adaptability to the user’s pace.
PART B – Trail Design Guidelines B – Trail PART 3. Simple and Use of the design is easy to 3a. Eliminate unnecessary complexity. Intuitive Use understand, regardless of the 3b. Be consistent with user expectations and intuition. user’s experience, knowledge, language skills, or current 3c. Accommodate a wide range of literacy and language skills. concentration level. 3d. Arrange information consistent with its importance. 3e. Provide effective prompting and feedback during and after task completion.
4. Perceptible The design communicates 4a. Use different modes (pictorial, verbal, tactile) for improving on Information necessary information redundant presentation of essential information. effectively to the user, 4b. Provide adequate contrast between essential information and regardless of ambient its surroundings. conditions or the user’s sensory abilities. 4c. Maximize “legibility” of essential information. 4d. Differentiate elements in ways that can be described (i.e., make it easy to give instructions or directions). 4e. Provide compatibility with a variety of techniques or devices used by people with sensory limitations.
5. Tolerance The design minimizes hazards 5a. Arrange elements to minimize hazards and errors: most used for Error and the adverse consequences elements, most accessible; hazardous elements eliminated, of accidental or unintended isolated, or shielded. actions. 5b. Provide warnings of hazards and errors. 5c. Provide fail safe features. 5d. Discourage unconscious action in tasks that require vigilance.
6. Low Physical The design can be used 6a. Allow user to maintain a neutral body position. Effort efficiently and comfortably 6b. Use reasonable operating forces. and with a minimum of fatigue. 6c. Minimize repetitive actions. 6d. Minimize sustained physical effort.
7. Size and Space Appropriate size and space 7a. Provide a clear line of sight to important elements for any for Approach is provided for approach, seated or standing user. and Use reach, manipulation, and use 7b. Make reach to all components comfortable for any seated or regardless of user’s body size, standing user. posture, or mobility. 7c. Accommodate variations in hand and grip size. 7d. Provide adequate space for the use of assistive devices or personal assistance.
Copyright © 1997 NC State University, The Centre for Universal Design
66 GUIDELINES FOR TRAIL PLANNING, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT ELEMENT 8 ELEMENT 9 ELEMENT 10 ELEMENT 11 ELEMENT 12 APPENDICES Trail Building Maintaining Education and Orientation classification successful trails successful trails interpretation and safety and standards
Appendix 2 Policy and Legislation Relating to
Trail Development Trail to Relating Legislation and 2 – Policy Development Appendix
Planning and Construction – Agency Potential Triggers Relevant Legislation and Policy Responsible Contact resources Australian Government • Trail alignment Commonwealth Environmental Protection Matters of national http://www. planning on or environmental environment.gov. Matters of national environmental significance near areas of significance au/topics/about- protected under the Environment Protection and environmental or protected under the us/legislation/ Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) cultural significance EPBC Act Australian environment- and relevant to trails may include: • Removal of Government protection-and- • National heritage places vegetation for trail Department of the biodiversity- • construction or Migratory species protected under Environment conservation-act-1999/ maintenance international agreements and wetlands of what international importance (listed under the • Trail alignment on Ramsar Convention) e.g. catchments of Commonwealth land Port Phillip and Western Port (including Port • Trail activities Phillip Bay [Western Shoreline] and Bellarine and events on Peninsula Ramsar wetland and Western Port or near areas of Ramsar wetland) environmental • Listed threatened species and ecological significance communities • The environment, where actions proposed are on, or will affect Commonwealth land and the environment • The environment, where Commonwealth agencies are proposing to take an action. Victorian State Government • Removal of Native Vegetation Protection State of Victoria http://www.depi.vic. vegetation for trail gov.au/environment- In Victoria, a permit is required to remove, construction or and-wildlife/ destroy or lop native vegetation. These maintenance biodiversity/native- regulations are known as the Native Vegetation vegetation/native- Permitted Clearing Regulations vegetation-permitted- The interaction of trail users with natural areas clearing-regulations is one of the major attractions for trail users, http://www.legislation. the appropriate integration of trails within areas vic.gov.au of native vegetation should be done do reduce the impact on vegetation and enhance the trail experience The removal of native vegetation is primarily regulated by the Victoria Planning Provisions
GUIDELINES FOR TRAIL PLANNING, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT 67 ELEMENT 8 ELEMENT 9 ELEMENT 10 ELEMENT 11 ELEMENT 12 APPENDICES Trail Building Maintaining Education and Orientation classification successful trails successful trails interpretation and safety and standards
Planning and Construction – Agency Potential Triggers Relevant Legislation and Policy Responsible Contact resources • Trail planning or Public Land Management State of Victoria http://parkweb.vic.gov. development on The State Government manage areas of au public lands Crown land that include parks and reserves, http://www.depi.vic. State forests, waterways, coasts and marine gov.au environments. Railway land in Victoria with the exception of some land owned by Parks Victoria and DEPI is owned by the Government Corporation VicTrack. Local government also has a significant role by being appointed by the Environment Minister as Committee of Management. Likewise other PART B – Trail Design Guidelines B – Trail PART incorporated bodies such as GORCC can also be appointed as Committee of Management. In addition, many areas of Crown land on stream frontages have been leased to adjacent private landowners who have management responsibilities for this Crown land and who would need to be consulted and negotiated with should new trails cut through land that they manage. Approval will be required to develop a trail on public land and to undertake trail – based events on public land. Heritage sites that occur on crown land need to be considered i.e. the presence of heritage listed train stations and other railway features on railway lines. The Heritage Act 1995 needs to be considered. Environment Protection Act 1970 outlines objectives relating to the quality of land, water, air etc. This Act, as well as subordinate legislation such as State environment protection policies and statutory guidance on construction activities all applies to trails occurring on all land in Victoria. The Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994 provides specific legislative requirements on all land managers in relation to the management of their land. This includes the management of noxious pest plants and animals The Water Act 1989 has critical requirements in relation to works on waterways i.e. the construction of bridges over waterways on trails The Planning and Environment Act 1987 which outlines the State Planning Policy Framework which oversees all land use in Victoria The Coastal Management Act 1995 has responsibility for the protection of coasts and would apply to planning for trails in the coastal zone.
68 GUIDELINES FOR TRAIL PLANNING, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT ELEMENT 8 ELEMENT 9 ELEMENT 10 ELEMENT 11 ELEMENT 12 APPENDICES Trail Building Maintaining Education and Orientation classification successful trails successful trails interpretation and safety and standards Appendix 2 – Policy and Legislation Relating to Trail to Relating Legislation and 2 – Policy Development Appendix Planning and Construction – Agency Potential Triggers Relevant Legislation and Policy Responsible Contact resources • Trail planning or Traditional Owners and Cultural Heritage State of Victoria http://www.dpc.vic. development on gov.au/index.php/ Planning and development of a trail project will Crown or public aboriginal-affairs/ require consideration of Aboriginal Heritage and lands about-the-office-of- may require consultation with Traditional Owners. • aboriginal-affairs- Trail planning or The Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006 victoria development on provides for the protection and management Aboriginal traditional of Victoria’s Aboriginal heritage with processes http://www.justice. lands linked to the Victorian planning system. The Act vic.gov.au/home/ • Trail construction provides: your+rights/native+title/ where there is • the introduction and management of a system potential for http://www. of Registered Aboriginal Parties that allows for justice.vic.gov.au/ disturbance to Aboriginal groups with connections to country cultural heritage sites utility/contact+us/ to be involved in decision making processes native+title+unit.shtml or items around cultural heritage • the establishment of Cultural Heritage http://assets.justice. Management Plans and Cultural Heritage vic.gov.au/justice/ Permit processes to manage activities that may resources/6e1e10b1- harm Aboriginal cultural heritage cb83-4d6e-aefe- 16376db6b909/ • a system of cultural heritage agreements to support the development of partnerships factsheetfgunditjma around the protection and management of ranivetitleclaims.pdf Aboriginal cultural heritage • strong provisions relating to enforcement of the Act – including Aboriginal Heritage Protection Declarations and stop orders • powers for Inspectors and increased fees and charges for breaches of the Act • Trail or infrastructure Native Title State of Victoria development Native Title is recognised through a determination construction where made by the Federal Court of Australia and will actions could affect vary for each Aboriginal group because it comes Native Title from the traditional laws and customs of the group. • It exists alongside, and is subject to, the rights of other people in the same area • It can be extinguished because of certain actions, inconsistent with native title law, that the government may have taken (or allowed others to take) over a particular area of land Before commencing a trail project consideration of Native Title should be undertaken to ensure Native Title Rights and agreements are honoured and to ensure any actions undertaken in the development of a trail do not affect native title law.
GUIDELINES FOR TRAIL PLANNING, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT 69 ELEMENT 8 ELEMENT 9 ELEMENT 10 ELEMENT 11 ELEMENT 12 APPENDICES Trail Building Maintaining Education and Orientation classification successful trails successful trails interpretation and safety and standards
Planning and Construction – Agency Potential Triggers Relevant Legislation and Policy Responsible Contact resources Local Government • Trail or infrastructure Local Government has significant responsibility Local Government http://www. development for the assessment, approval or referral of Authority for the dpcd.vic.gov.au/ construction where development applications. Prior to commencing area localgovernment actions could affect a trail project the relevant Local Government http://www.dpcd. or require Local authority should be contacted for advice. vic.gov.au/planning/ Government services Public Land Management planningapplications • Trail or infrastructure development Local government has a role in managing areas http://www.austlii.edu. construction where of public land and in some cases has a significant au/au/legis/vic/consol_
PART B – Trail Design Guidelines B – Trail PART actions could change role being appointed by the Environment Minister act/rma2004138/ as Committee of Management for land. Other land use http://www. Incorporated bodies can also be appointed as • Trail or infrastructure designmanual. Committee of Management. development com.au/files/IDM_ construction where In addition, many areas of Crown land on Version_4.2_Final_1_ infrastructure is stream frontages have been leased to adjacent November_2013.pdf complex and requires private landowners who have management https://www. standards including responsibilities for this Crown land and who onlinepublications. Infrastructure would need to be consulted and negotiated austroads.com.au/ Design Specifications with should new trails cut through land that items/AGRD06A-09 they manage. Any future trail development needs a thorough assessment of land tenure and ownership. Infrastructure and Services Local Government maintain significant infrastructure, provide a range of services and enforce various laws for their communities. Local Government are responsible for the development of and maintenance of infrastructure on all land outside of the public land managed by State Government agencies. The Guide to Road Design – Part 6A: Pedestrian and Cyclist Paths provides guidance for road designers and other practitioners on the design of paths for safe and efficient walking and cycling.
70 GUIDELINES FOR TRAIL PLANNING, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT ELEMENT 8 ELEMENT 9 ELEMENT 10 ELEMENT 11 ELEMENT 12 APPENDICES Trail Building Maintaining Education and Orientation classification successful trails successful trails interpretation and safety and standards Appendix 3 – MTB Trail Difficulty Rating users) Trail Rating System 3 – MTB (for Appendix Difficulty Planning and Construction – Agency Potential Triggers Relevant Legislation and Policy Responsible Contact resources Planning and Land Use The planning and construction of trails may require a change of land use, due to the new use on land (e.g. where it may create a demand for car parks), may be considered development of land or require the clearance of native vegetation. Even minor matters may need a planning permit and trail planners or managers should consult with your local council who can offer advice about local or state government policy guidelines. Local Planning Schemes, which implement the State Planning Policy Framework. There are many overlays that will influence the location, siting and construction of future trails, as well as the requirement to gain planning and/or building permits. Local Government has developed the Infrastructure Design Manual (IDM) which sets out the engineering requirements for the development of urban infrastructure. It gives clear and consistent direction towards the engineering requirements that will satisfy council strategies and policies. The IDM has an urban focus and does not provide standards for trails other than the most urban Class 1 trails, some cycling trails and infrastructure associated interface such as road design, bridges and car parks. Trail design should always refer to the trail vision and urban infrastructure may not fit with trail vision or grade. This IDM was originally prepared by the Cities of Greater Bendigo and Greater Shepparton and the Shire of Campaspe. Their joint initiative was one which recognised the benefits of municipalities working together towards consistent requirements and standards for the design and development of Infrastructure. Since the preparation of the Manual many other Councils have adopted the Manual. An online Infrastructure Design Manual (IDM) has been adopted by the IDM Board which is updated periodically.
GUIDELINES FOR TRAIL PLANNING, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT 71 ELEMENT 8 ELEMENT 9 ELEMENT 10 ELEMENT 11 ELEMENT 12 APPENDICES Trail Building Maintaining Education and Orientation classification successful trails successful trails interpretation and safety and standards
Appendix 3 MTB Trail Difficulty Rating System (for users)
Very easy Easy Intermediate Difficult Extreme
White Circle Green Circle Blue Square Single Black Double Black Diamond Diamond Description Likely to be a fire Likely to be a Likely to be a single Likely to be a Extremely difficult road or wide single combination of fire trail with moderate challenging single trail trails will incorporate track with a gentle road or wide single gradients, variable with steep gradients, very steep gradients, gradient, smooth track with a gentle surface and obstacles. variable surface and highly variable surface surface and free of gradient, smooth many obstacles. and unavoidable, obstacles. surface and relatively severe obstacles. free of unavoidable Frequent encounters obstacles. are likely with other PART B – Trail Design Guidelines B – Trail PART cyclists, walkers, Short sections may runners and horse exceed these criteria. riders. Frequent encounters are likely with walkers, runners, horse riders and other cyclists. Suitable for Beginner/ novice Beginner/ novice Skilled mountain Experienced mountain Highly experienced cyclists. Basic bike mountain bikers. Basic bikers. bikers with good mountain bikers skills required. mountain bike skills skills. with excellent skills. Suitable for mountain required. Suitable for quality Suitable for most bikes. Suitable for better mountain bikes. bikes. Suitable for off-road quality mountain bikes. bikes. Fitness Level Most people in good Most people in good A good standard of Higher level of fitness. Higher level of fitness. health. health. fitness. Trail Width Two riders can ride Shoulder width or Handlebar width or Can be less than Can be less than side by side. greater. greater. handlebar width. handlebar width. Trail Hardened with no Mostly firm and Possible sections Variable and Widely variable and Surface and stable. Trail may have of rocky or loose challenging. unpredictable. Expect challenging features obstacles obstacles such as logs, tread. Trail will have large, committing on Unavoidable obstacles roots and rocks. obstacles such as logs, and unavoidable such as logs, roots, the trail. roots and rocks. obstacles. rocks drop-offs or constructed obstacles. Trail Climbs and descents Climbs and descents Mostly moderate Contains steeper Expect prolonged Gradient are mostly shallow. are mostly shallow., gradients but may descents or climbs. steep, loose and rocky but trail may include include steep sections. descents or climbs. some moderately steep sections.
72 GUIDELINES FOR TRAIL PLANNING, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT ELEMENT 8 ELEMENT 9 ELEMENT 10 ELEMENT 11 ELEMENT 12 APPENDICES Trail Building Maintaining Education and Orientation classification successful trails successful trails interpretation and safety and standards
Appendix 4 MTB Trail Difficulty Rating System (for managers) Appendix 4 – MTB Trail Difficulty Rating Trail managers) Rating System 4 – MTB (for Appendix Difficulty Very easy Easy Intermediate Difficult Extreme
White Circle Green Circle Blue Square Single Black Double Black Diamond Diamond Description Likely to be a fire Likely to be a Likely to be a single Likely to be a Extremely difficult road or wide single combination of fire trail with moderate challenging single trail trails will incorporate track with a gentle road or wide single gradients, variable with steep gradients, very steep gradients, gradient, smooth track with a gentle surface and obstacles. variable surface and highly variable surface surface and free of gradient, smooth Dual use or preferred many obstacles. and unavoidable, obstacles. surface and relatively use Single use and severe obstacles. free of obstacles. Frequent encounters Optional lines direction Single use and are likely with other Short sections may desirable Optional lines direction cyclists, walkers, exceed these criteria. XC, DH or trials Optional lines runners and horse Frequent encounters XC, DH or trials riders. are likely with other cyclists, walkers, runners and horse riders. Trail Width 2100mm 900mm 600mm 300mm 150mm plus or minus 900mm plus or minus 300mm plus or minus 300mm plus or minus 150mm plus or minus 100mm for tread or bridges. for tread or bridges. for tread and bridges. for tread or bridges. Structures can vary. Structures can vary. Trail Surface Hardened or smooth. Mostly firm and Possible sections of Variable and Widely variable and stable. rocky or loose tread. challenging. unpredictable. Average Climbs and descents Climbs and descents Mostly moderate Contains steeper Expect prolonged Trail Grade are mostly shallow. are mostly shallow, gradients but may descents or climbs. steep, loose and rocky Less than 5% average. but may include some include steep sections. 20% or less average. descents or climbs. moderately steep 10% or less average. 20% or greater sections. average 7% or less average. Maximum Max 10% Max 15% Max 20% or greater Max 20% or greater Max 40% or greater Trail Grade Level of Trail Firm and level fall Exposure to either Exposure to either Exposure to either Exposure to either Exposure zone to either side of side of trail corridor side of trail corridor side of trail corridor side of trail corridor trail corridor includes downward includes downward includes steep includes steep slopes of up to 10% slopes of up to 20% downward slopes or downward slopes or freefall freefall Natural No obstacles. Unavoidable obstacles Unavoidable, rollable Unavoidable obstacles Large, committing Obstacles to 50mm (2”) high, obstacles to 200mm to 380mm (15”) high, and unavoidable and such as logs, roots (8”) high, such as such as logs, roots, obstacles to 380mm Technical and rocks. logs, roots and rocks. rocks, drop-offs or (15”) high. Trail Avoidable, rollable Avoidable obstacles constructed obstacles. Avoidable obstacles Features obstacles may be to 600mm may be Avoidable obstacles to 1200mm may be (TTFs) present. present. to 1200mm may be present. Unavoidable bridges Unavoidable bridges present. Unavoidable bridges 900mm wide. 600mm wide. Unavoidable bridges 600mm or narrower. Short sections may Width of deck is half 600mm wide. Width of bridges is exceed criteria. the height. Width of deck is half unpredictable. Short sections may the height. Short sections may exceed criteria. Short sections may exceed criteria. exceed criteria.
GUIDELINES FOR TRAIL PLANNING, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT 73 References
Australian Bicycle Council 2014, http://www.bicyclecouncil.com.au/ Government of South Australia 2007, Guidelines for the Planning, Design, Construction and Maintenance of Recreational Trails in South Australia, Department of Recreation and Sport, Adelaide Government of South Australia 2009, Public Sign and Information Manual (Internal Document), Department of Environment and Heritage South Australian Government, Adelaide IMBA 2004, Trail Solutions, International Mountain Bike Association, IMBA Australia 2012, Trail Difficulty Ratings, International Mountain Bike Association Australia, Canberra Inspiring Places and Robin Crocker Associates 2009, Barwon South West Regional Trails Master Plan, Hobart Tasmania International Association of Public Participation 2015 http://www.iap2.org.au/ NC State University 1997, The Seven Principles of Universal Design, www.ncsu.edu/ncsu/design/cud/pubs_p/docs/poster.pdf Rail Trails Australia 2015, www.railtrails.org.au/ The State of Victoria 2007, Overview of Existing Walking Trail Classification Systems Department of Sustainability and Environment, Melbourne The State of Victoria 2014, Victorian Trails Strategy 2014–2024, Victorian Government, Melbourne The State of Victoria, 2010, DSE Signage Manual, Department of Sustainability and Environment, Melbourne TRC Tourism 2015, Barwon South West Cycle Tourism Strategy, Jindabyne TRC Tourism 2015, Barwon South West Marketing Strategy, Jindabyne
74 GUIDELINES FOR TRAIL PLANNING, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT GUIDELINES FOR TRAIL PLANNING, DESIGN AND MANAGEMENT 75 PO Box 837 P (61) 02 6456 2722 Jindabyne F (61) 02 6456 2422 NSW 2627 E [email protected] www.trctourism.com