Trail Maintenance and Construction Notebook: February 2025

Trails don’t maintain themselves. And poorly designed trails don’t last.The Trail Maintenance and Construction Notebook – 2025 Edition is the definitive hands-on guide for building and maintaining sustainable natural surface trails in today’s challenging environments.With more than 160,000 miles of trails managed across public lands, the need for skilled trail professionals has never been greater. This updated edition reflects where trail programs invest the most time and resources—maintenance—and emphasizes the critical connection between smart design and long-term durability.Inside, you’ll learn:How to plan and prioritize trail projectsCore sustainability principles: environmental, social, and economicProper trail grades, slope ratios, and the “half rule”Rolling contour trail design and drainage techniquesMaintenance strategies that treat root causes—not just symptomsConstruction methods including full-bench and partial-bench techniquesBuilding and maintaining structures: retaining walls, steps, bridges, culverts, causewaysCorridor clearing, hazard mitigation, and safe tool useAccessibility guidelines and inclusive trail designDecommissioning unsustainable or user-created routesWorking effectively with partners and volunteersThis edition features updated photos, diagrams, and practical field insights designed to strengthen understanding—not just teach steps. You’ll gain not only the “how,” but the “why” behind trail construction decisions, helping you solve problems creatively and confidently in the field.In cooperation with the Recreational Trails Program of the Federal Highway Administration, U.S. Department of Transportation. Read more