Walking Trail Development

Course Aim:

To equip learners with the tools and understanding to effectively develop a sustainable walking trail, including selecting the physical attributes, costing & funding the project and planning for long-term management.

Course Topics:

  • Trail Development in Ireland Overview
  • Walking Trail Surfaces & Infrastructure
  • Detailed Route Choice
  • Case Study & Site Visit
  • Estimating Costs
  • Funding & Resources
  • Future Trail Management Considerations
  • Completing a Trail Proposal

Courses will be ran over 1 day and combine classroom and practical sessions. Course sizes will be capped at 16 to ensure maximum benefit is received by participants.

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completion of the courses learners will be able to:

  • Outline a range of trail surface types that may be used for walking trails
  • Describe options for waymarking, signage and trail furniture that are commonly used in Ireland
  • Select the most appropriate line for the route and features for the trail
  • Calculate an indicative cost for developing a trail
  • Identify potential funding streams & supports for a walking trail project
  • Appreciate the need to plan for on-going management, monitoring and maintenance
  • Complete a Trail Proposal to guide the trail’s development, help in funding applications and plan for the sustainable management of the trail.

Target Audience:

The course is suitable for anybody with an interest in trails and the outdoors but will be of particular interest to:

  • Local group members involved in planning and developing a walking trail
  • Staff with a trails brief in local authorities or national bodies
  • Rural Recreation Officers / County Trails Officers
  • People approving or funding trails projects
  • Trail managers looking to upgrade or expand their route
  • Professionals who want to understand trails development
Trail

The course was well rounded, classes were small which suited my learning style. 

Walking Trail Development