Trail Building Toolbox
This online guide breaks down the steps to developing trails with in-depth coverage, technical tips, templates and more.
Organization
Rails to Trails Conservancy
Location
National or Global
Topic
IDEA
Infrastructure
Participation
Sustainability
Activity
Bicycling
Birding/Wildlife viewing
Hiking/Running
Motorized sports (boat, snowmobile, ATV, etc.)
Winter sports (downhill, Nordic, tube, snowshoe, snowmobile)
Related Resources
2015 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Smart Growth Self-Assessment for Rural Communities
The Smart Growth Self-Assessment for Rural Communities is a compilation of strategies, organized by 11 common "goal areas," that villages, towns, and small cities can use to evaluate their existing policies to create healthy, environmentally resilient, and economically robust rural places.
2023 U.S. Department of Transportation
Role of Trails in Climate Resilience & Emergency Response
A literature review and interviews with national trail organizations, this white paper explores existing research, highlights project examples, and identifies research gaps for trails in connection to climate resilience, emergency response, and public health emergencies.
2019 River Management Society
River Access Planning Guide
A step-by-step procedure to evaluate existing and anticipated uses, site selection and design facilities that support desired recreation experiences while also protecting natural resources.
Explore the Trends Shaping Outdoor Recreation
Outdoor Industry Association: 2025 Outdoor Participation Trends Report
Bureau of Economic Analysis: 2024 Economic Statistics for Wisconsin
Adventure Travel Trade Association: Travel Market Sizing and the New Adventure Traveler
KOA: 2025 Camping & Outdoor Hospitality Report
American Sportfishing Association: Economic Contributions of Recreational Fishing
Measure What Matters
