Introduction
Trails in soft, saturated soils present special challenges for trail managers. Muddy trails cause problems for livestock and hikers, both of whom tend to skirt the edges of mud holes. The use along the edge of the trail increases the area being damaged. Improperly constructed trails in wet areas lead to erosion, soil compaction, sedimentation, multiple trails where only one is needed, and unhappy trail users. Traditional trail construction methods for wet areas include turnpike or puncheon. These methods have worked well where rock or wood materials are readily available. However, geosynthetics can increase the effectiveness of construction methods and offer additional alternatives.
Geosynthetics are synthetic materials (usually made from synthetic polymers) used with soil or rock in many types of construction. Their use has grown significantly in road construction for the past 40 years, and in trail construction for the past 15 years.
Guidelines on the use of geosynthetics in trail construction have not been readily available to trail managers. The information presented here applies some roads technology to trail design and construction in six categories:
- General information on geosynthetic products
- Basic geosynthetic design concepts
- Specific design diagrams for trail construction over wet, saturated soils
- A list of product manufacturers and recommended physical properties
- Identification of unsuitable tread fill materials
- Case studies
Highlights...
- Geosynthetic materials can help prevent
trails from failing in wet areas.
- The many types of geosynthetic materials
perform three major functions: separation, reinforcement, and drainage.
- This report provides infor mation on the different types of geosynthetic materials, explains basic geosynthetic design concepts, and provides detailed product specifications and procurement sources.
