FHWA Course on Bicycle and Pedestrian Transportation

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LESSON 10: OFF-ROAD TRAILS (INSTRUCTOR'S NOTES)

Objectives:

Upon completion of this lesson, students will be able to:

1. Describe the importance of off-road trails for walking and bicycling.
2. Cite the different types of trails.
3. Outline different issues related to trail design.

Pre-Instruction:

Components	Activities
Motivation	Ask the class to present the results of their inquiries regarding biking and walking trails in the area. Have them report on where the trails begin and end, how wide the trails are, and how frequently they are used.
Objectives	Present and explain the three lesson goals listed above (V-10-1).

Information Presentation:

Components	Activities
Information Sequence	Outline the presentation of the lecture (V-10-2).
Information	Discuss the importance of off-road trails as they relate to the overall transportation network. List and describe the different types of trails (V-10-3 and V-10-4). Discuss the different issues related to trail design (V-10-5 and V-10-6).
Example(s)	Show multiple examples (e.g., slides, videotape) of the types of trails and trail design elements.

Student Participation:

Components	Activities
Practice	Using a local U.S. Geological Survey map, have the students design a new trail that would enhance recreation and travel in you area. Have the students discuss the reasons behind the selection of their route.
Feedback	Provide comment and feedback to the class as appropriate.

Follow-Up:

Components	Activities
Enrichment	Assign reading for Lesson 11. Have the students locate a local example of traffic calming. Have them visit the location, take measurements, and sketch the traffic-calming device. Have them critique the effectiveness of the device.
Review

Lesson Objectives:

• Describe the importance of off -road trails for walking and bicycling
• Cite the different types of trails
• Outline different issues related to trail design

Lesson Outline:

• Importance of off-road trails as they relate to the transportation network
• Different types of trails
• Trail design issues

Different Types of Trails:

• Urban trails and pathways
• Rail-trails
• Trails in greenways
• Interpretive trails

Different Types of Trails (continued):

• Historic trails
• Rural trails
• Primitive trails

Trail Design Issues:

• Location and use
• Trail width
• Traffic control
• Paths adjacent to roadways

Trail Design Issues (continued):

• Intersection design
• Restricting motor vehicles
• Pavement design

Lesson Summary:

• Trails can provide additional links in the pedestrian and bicycle network
• Trails can be of many types
• There are many different issues related to trail design

 

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