Designing and building high-quality trails that facilitate a positive experience and protect natural resources can feel like a daunting task. There are many resources available from multiple trails organizations that can help throughout the process. Please reach out to Claire Polfus, Recreation Program Manager (claire.polfus@vermont.gov), if you have any questions that aren’t answered in the resources linked below.
General Guidelines
- USFS Trail Construction and Maintenance Notebook
- USFS Trail Fundamentals and Trail Management Objectives
- USFS Sustainable Recreation Site Design Guide (Campground, Picnic Areas, Vistas, Trailheads, etc.)
- Vermont Town Forest Trail Design Guide
- Guidance for Non-Native Invasive Plant Species Monitoring and Control in Connection with Section 248 Projects
By Use Type
Accessible Recreation
- USFS Accessibility Guidebook
- Access Board Guidance for Boating Facilities
- Access Board Guidance for Fishing Piers
- Adaptive Mountain Bike Standards
Mountain Biking
- IMBA Guidelines for a High Quality Trail Experience
- IMBA Trail Development Guidelines for Successfully Managing the Process
Rail Trails and Multi-Use Paths
Equestrian
Backcountry Ski
Snowmobile
River Access
Rock Climbing
Trails Near Wetlands
- USFS Wetland Trail Design and Construction
- VT DEC Wetlands Program Recreation Trail Building and Wetlands
Trails Near Rivers
- VT DEC Rivers Program Recreation Trail Building and Riparian Areas – Coming soon
Campsites