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