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