Friday 10 October 2014

Create Walking Trails

You can create a walking trail according to your budget and resources.


Walking can be healthy and even relaxing. Many parks have extensive walking trails. If you enjoy walking and have enough land, it's possible to make your own walking trail. The type size and features of the walking trail you design can vary depending upon your need and resources, allowing you to have access to a personal walking trail you may be tempted to use on a more regular basis. Does this Spark an idea?


Instructions


1. Plot your trail. Regardless of the size of your property, you will need to know how you want your trail to look. This design can be anything from a simple circle to a trail that has turns and variations in gradation. The larger the piece of land you're working with, the more complex you can make your trail. Draw an idea up on paper for the shape you want.


2. Clear the land if necessary. Chop down any trees and shrubbery that will need to be removed in order to make your path (the trail). The equipment you need for this step will vary, depending upon how much land you need to clear. If you're going to clear a heavily wooded area, you may need to rent a small backhoe. If the job is smaller, you may be able to remove trees and other foliage with a hatchet.


3. Cut the foundation for the trail. Depending upon the size of the trail, you may need a backhoe. You may be able to do the job with a small riding lawnmower and shovel, along with the help of friends. The object is to cut a path in the ground that is wide enough for two people to walk side by side comfortably. The path should be at least a foot deep, to allow you to add filler. Level out any extensive hills to make sure the overall trail is level and provides an easy, comfortable walk.


4. Fill the path in with cedar chips. They have a pleasant smell and are more comfortable to walk on than stone. Use a roller to pack the cedar chips. Place logs along the path on both sides to form a barrier to help keep the cedar chips in place and to add stability to the walkway. The number of logs or 2x4s you need will depend upon how long your trail is.


5. Place two or three stone or wood benches along your path. The longer your trail is, the more of them you will need. Set these benches just off the trail, ideally in areas where there is plenty of the natural environment to look at.

Tags: your trail, walking trail, cedar chips, make your, will need