Trails

We believe a network of high quality trails can transform a community by improving the quality of life for all users.

Whether for recreation or transportation, trails continue to increase in popularity and importance in both rural and urban communities. Understanding how a trail will be used, and the level of use it will receive, are important elements behind the design and construction of trails and trail systems.

Our trails are designed and constructed to:

Seamlessly integrate into the terrain
Leverage, incorporate, and highlight the natural and cultural features of the landscape
Minimize environmental impacts
Require minimal ongoing maintenance
Provide a satisfactory user experience that will encourage visitors to use the trail regularly

Sustainable Trail Design & Construction Plans

Design, planning, and layout of ecologically sound trails and trail systems. We work with landowners and stakeholders to provide the type of enjoyable and quality trails that will appeal to visitors. We have experience developing trails that span a wide range of usages, from handicapped accessible trails to challenging single track.

New Construction & Restoration

Implementing new sustainable trails, including clearing designated trail routes, cutting benches, and building bridges, boardwalks and other structures. We can also upgrade existing trails to address flooding, erosion, and increase visitor satisfaction.

Trail Closures and Re-routes

Eliminate unauthorized or “bandit” trails and classic “fall line” situations through proven closure techniques of vegetation management, tread restoration and signage. CW’s staff has numerous years of addressing trail closure issues using these techniques. Establish trail re-routes to create more sustainable alternatives.

Hazard & Liability Assessments

How safe is your trail system? Hazards are assessed on and along your trail and an objective assessment or your liability risk is provided, along with recommended solutions to any number of trail safety issues and problems.

Trail Stewardship Training

All members of the CW Trail staff have been trained and have run countless volunteer trail steward workdays and numerous stewardship training programs. Let us design your stewardship program for you so that your volunteers safely perform exemplary work on your trail networks.

Trail Mapping & Interpretive Signage

Producing accurate and attractive electronic and printed maps of trail networks including natural features, points of interest, parking locations, property boundaries. Designing self-guided trails with annotated guides to flora, habitat features, local history, and other items of interest.

Storm Damage & Hazard Tree Removal

Clearing ice, snow and other storm damage from trail systems. From hurricane and tornado damage to snow and ice storm damage, we are capable of removing damaged and hazardous trees from your trails.

Custom Trail Hikes & Interpretive Programs

Designing self-guided trails with annotated guides to flora, habitat features, local history, and other items of interest.

Grant Writing and Project Management

We provide guidance, strategies, recommendations and project management that define the specific tasks and phases needed within a project to achieve the ultimate vision. This includes identifying appropriate grants and other funding sources for the various phases of a project, from planning through implementation and long-term stewardship.