Alabama State Trail Plan Summary 2008 Little River Canyon Courtesy of Alabama Bureau of Tourism and Travel
Acknowledgements The preparation of the Alabama Trail Plan, 2008 was financed in part through a planning grant from the National Park Service, United States Department of the Interior, under the provisions of the Land and Water Conservation Fund Act of 1965 (Public Law 88-578, as amended). Sincere appreciation is extended to those persons who attended the public involvement meetings and workshop that were conducted in conjunction with the preparation of the Alabama Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan, 2008-2012 and the Alabama Trail Plan and to those persons who were unable to attend but provided comments and suggestions. These plans are a reflection of your assistance, feedback and comments. The State of Alabama is a richer place because of your commitment to the ongoing improvement of outdoor recreation and trail opportunities. For additional copies or information, contact: Mr. Rob Grant Recreation Programs Director Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs 401 Adams Avenue P.O. Box 5690 Montgomery, Alabama 36103-5690 334-242-5483 rob.grant@adeca.alabama.gov SCORP Survey and Analysis by Dr. Mac Holmes Center for Business and Economic Services Troy University 102 Bibb Graves Hall Troy, Alabama 36082 334-670-3525 SCORP Document Prepared by Tracy P. Delaney South Central Alabama Development Commission 5900 Carmichael Place Montgomery, Alabama 36117 334-244-6903
Alabama State Trail Plan Summary, 2008 A Message From Governor Riley iii
Alabama State Trail Plan Summary, 2008 Alabama Recreational Trails Advisory Board Motorized Trails: Mr. Glenn Myers Munford, Alabama Mr. Robert Fuller Huntsville, Alabama Equestrian Trails: Mr. Bobby Whaley Alabaster, Alabama Mr. Patrick A. Denney Birmingham, Alabama Special Populations: Mr. Jerry Bynum Jackson s Gap, Alabama Pedestrian and Hiking Trails: Mr. James K. Lanier Eclectic, Alabama Mr. William M. (Bill) Matthews Killen, Alabama Urban Trails: Mr. Tom Maxwell Homewood, Alabama Ms. Debbie Quinn Fairhope, Alabama Bicycling: Mr. Bill St. John Cullman, Alabama Mr. Richard Martin Elkmont, Alabama Gateway at Monte Sano State Park Photo by Tracy Delaney iv
Alabama State Trail Plan Summary, 2008 The Alabama Trail Vision: Establish a well-defined and accessible statewide trail infrastructure through an interconnecting system that provides a variety of safe and unique trail opportunities; creating quality educational and interpretive experiences that result in increased use, sustainable development and additional tourism. v
Alabama State Trail Plan Summary, 2008 Alabama Trail System Goals and Strategies: Connectivity Sustainability and Maintenance Distribution Of Information Work with trail organizations to develop framework for a proposed trail system infrastructure. Promote interconnection of trails whenever possible. Promote development of trails near population centers. Pursue development of side trails that connect rural areas to urban areas. Utilize best management practices in trail construction and maintenance to ensure trail longevity and minimal impact on surroundings. Conduct training workshop on sustainable construction methods and practices. Investigate feasibility of statewide standards for trail development to be considered part of Alabama Trail System. Develop an online statewide database of all trails in Alabama. Prepare a distribution brochure to inform public of existing and proposed trails. Build a one-stop shop for trail information in Alabama. Work with trail organizations to circulate information. Conservation and Promotion of Resources Trail Partnerships and Collaboration Increase Accessibility Work with conservation organizations to utilize trails as a means to protect natural resources. Properly utilize wetlands and floodplains for trail development to protect them from development. Promote the beauty of unique trails to mark their special place in Alabama s landscape. Foster partnerships through regular convening of various trail user groups. Investigate resources for all organizations to determine how funds can be leveraged to everyone s benefit. Establish common ground among trail stakeholder groups to begin collaboration process. Pursue accessibility within connectivity concept to promote trail use at all levels and abilities. Investigate, through design and construction, innovative and cost-efficient means of making trails more accessible. vi
Alabama State Trail Plan Summary, 2008 The Alabama Trail Plan Trails are an integral part of our history. From animal paths through the woods to the exploration of our country to planned and designed long-distance recreational treks, trails have moved us from Point A to Point B for any number of reasons. As old as the trail concept may be, each new trail brings an excitement that comes with a first discovery. In the last 25 years, Alabamians have embraced the resurgence of the recreational trail movement that has swept the United States following the creation of the National Trails System by Congress in 1968. This year, Alabama celebrated a new addition to the National Trails System the Alabama Scenic River Trail. On June 4, 2008, Secretary of the Interior Dirk Kempthorne designated the Alabama Scenic River Trail, along with 23 other trails, as a National Recreational Trail (NRT). The NRT designation officially recognized the Alabama Scenic River Trail as the longest one-state river trail in the nation. Secretary Kempthorne stated, The National Trails System, including these additions, provides an excellent link to the outdoors, particularly for children. National Trails exemplify partnerships and are providing a path to fitness and stewardship for Americans of all ages. Secretary Kemp s words echo the feelings of trail enthusiasts across Alabama. A renewed connection to the outdoors, fitness, environmental stewardship and trail partnerships are all part of the Alabama Trail System Concept. The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) is producing the Alabama Trail Plan to guide the development, expansion, and connection of recreational trails in the state. The Alabama Trail Plan has been prepared as a companion document to the Alabama Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan, 2008-2012 and thereby has been prepared according with the guidelines set forth in the Land and Water Conservation Fund State Assistance Program Federal Financial Assistance Manual, Volume 69 (effective October 1, 2008), Chapter 2: Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan and Open Project Selection Process. The public involvement process for the Alabama Trail Plan and the Alabama SCORP were conducted simultaneously using four methods to obtain public participation the planning process: coordination with related agencies and organizations, an extensive telephone survey, public meetings, and websites. The Alabama Trail Plan includes six separate components, organized as chapters: Trail Plan Public Meeting, July 2008 trail definitions, a trail inventory, trail demand and resources, trail benefits, identification of trail issues and barriers to use, and the trail strategy. The trail definitions chapter discusses the differences between recreational trails and other types of trails, what characteristics constitute a recreational trail, and categorizes trails by use into categories for trail planning purposes. The inventory is an initial compilation of existing recreational trails in Alabama. A chapter on trail demand and resources is included to insure that future trails meet the needs of Alabama citizens. Discussion of trail benefits provides information that may encourage more active participation in recreational trail use and development by various groups, while the discussion of trail issues and barriers is designed to determine how barriers can be minimized or eliminated to make trails more accessible to use by all population groups. The planning boundary areas of Alabama s 12 Regional Planning Commissions (RPCs) were used for the analysis and evaluation of demographic, physical characteristics, trail inventory information, and demand and need data. These regional areas segment the state into smaller, more manageable planning units. vii
Alabama State Trail Plan Summary, 2008 Defining Trails So what makes a trail a trail? Trail, path, track, route, trek, trace. These all are words that refer to a trail, but what exactly is a trail? For some, a trail has to have a destination, or a Point A and a Point B. In other words, to be a trail it has to go somewhere. For others, a short loop around a park constitutes a trail. And, for still others, a trail can be a waterway. When someone says the word trail, many different pictures come to mind. Most all of them will be correct. It may simply be a matter of how an individual is going to use a trail that defines what a trail actually is. A general definition of a trail that was developed for the purposes of the Alabama Trail Plan and agreed upon by stakeholders in public meetings is, as follows: A designated land corridor or body of water that provides recreational, aesthetic, alternate transportation or educational opportunities to both motorized and nonmotorized users, for all ages and abilities. The Alabama Trail Plan defines and discusses different types of trails based their use, their similarities and their differences. Ten trail definitions have been included based primarily on how a trail is traveled. The first trail category is to help define the distance or segmented trails that cross Alabama. The remaining nine use categories include: multi-use trails, walking trails, hiking trails, bicycle trails, mountain biking trails, all terrain vehicle / off-road vehicle (OHV/ATV) trails, water trails, equestrian trails, and interpretive trails. Trail Type Distance and Segmented Trails ATV / OHV Trails Bicycle Trail Equestrian Trail Hiking Trail Interpretive Trails Mountain Bike Trails Multi-Use Trails Walking Trail Water Trails Definition any type that is of considerable length, usually more than 25 miles, and passing through multiple jurisdictional areas; Segmented trails may be a group of short trails or sites that form a distance trail by virtue of their connectivity through use or theme. usually either a dedicated or multi-use unpaved trail and is typically eight to ten miles long. ATV trails, like other trails, can be developed as regional or distance trails stretching a 100 miles or more and crossing several jurisdictions. An ATV (all-terrain vehicle) is a small four-wheeled vehicle equipped with low-pressure balloon tires and intended only for off-highway use. An OHV (off-highway vehicle) is any motorized vehicle used for travel in areas normally considered inaccessible to conventional highway vehicles. OHVs may include dirt motorcycles, dune buggies, jeeps, 4-wheel drive vehicles. any corridor that is physically separated from motorized vehicular traffic by an open space or barrier. A bike trail is usually within the highway right-of-way or within an independent right-of-way. A bicycle trail is usually paved, but may be unpaved as well. a single dedicated use trail or a multi-use trail constructed of a stable unpaved surface for use by horses moderate to long distance trail with the primary function of providing long-distance walking experiences (usually two miles or more). a short to moderate length trail (1/2 to 1 mile) with a primary function of providing an opportunity to walk or paddle and study interesting or unusual plants or natural features at user's pleasure. corridor that is physically separated from motorized vehicular traffic by an open space or barrier and is usually unpaved, and often rocky, with various challenges in terms of hill, jumps and climbs. trail corridors that are physically separated from vehicular traffic and can be accessed by multiple users, such as cyclists, walkers, runners, wheelchairs, rollerbladers, etc. A separated path used for walking A recreational waterway on lake, river, or ocean between specific points usually within 15 miles of one another, containing access points and day use and/or camping sites for the nonmotorized boating public. viii
Alabama State Trail Plan Summary, 2008 Trail Inventory In taking advantage of the opportunities at hand, Alabamians have already constructed more than 1,400 miles of trails throughout the state. The great majority of these trails are local, ranging from one-half mile to 20 miles for longer treks. Some, however, are much longer and cross several jurisdictional boundaries. Many are located within Alabama s national and state forests, national preserves and refuges, and in state parks. Still others are located on land owned and/or managed by local units of government, nonprofit organizations, land trusts, utility companies, and private companies and individuals. It is expected that there are many more trails in Alabama that have not yet been included in the current inventory. The inventory categorized trails into one of nine types of trails: multi-use trails, walking trails, hiking trails, bicycle trails, mountain biking trails, all terrain vehicle / off-road vehicle (OHV/ATV) trails, water trails, equestrian trails, and interpretive trails. Information that was collected, as much as possible, included the following: trail name, location, address and directions, longitude and latitude, state planning region, tourism region, trail type, length, level of difficulty, surface material, owner and contact information, accessibility information, restrictions, other facilities present, hours, and any applicable fees. To date, 406 trails have been inventoried, representing just under 1,419 trail miles across the state. It is estimated that the inventory includes between 50 percent and 75 percent of the existing recreational trails in Alabama. Two major components that are still missing include walking / fitness trails and trails funded with Transportation Enhancement funds. It is expected that a large number of walking/fitness trails that have been constructed in conjunction with park development are not yet included on the inventory. Walking trails that have been funded with RTP funds, however, are included. Many trails that have been developed with Transportation Enhancement funds are transportation-oriented, such as sidewalks, rather than recreation. A thorough inventory of these trails will require a case by case survey to determine the nature of the trail. Region 1 Alabama Trail Inventory Summary by Region Name Northwest Alabama Council of Local Governments # of Counties # of Trails Miles of Trails Avg. Length 5 37 174.21 4.71 2 West Alabama Regional Commission 7 23 52.19 2.27 3 4 5 Regional Planning Commission of Greater Birmingham East Alabama Regional Planning and Development Commission South Central Alabama Development Commission 6 67 171.92 2.57 10 49 287.96 5.88 6 12 93.6 7.80 6 Alabama-Tombigbee Regional Commission 10 29 29.51 1.02 7 Southeast Alabama Regional Planning and Development Commission 7 37 100.75 2.72 8 South Alabama Regional Planning Commission 3 44 207.68 4.72 9 Central Alabama Regional Planning and Development Commission 3 8 11.35 1.42 10 Lee-Russell Council of Governments 2 11 19.19 1.74 11 12 North-central Alabama Regional Council of Governments Top of Alabama Regional Council of Governments 3 19 52.55 2.77 5 70 218.03 3.11 Total 67 406 1,418.94 ix
Alabama State Trail Plan Summary, 2008 Trail Demand The demand and pursuit of more and varying trails in Alabama is steadily increasing. Not only do survey results show more and more people participating in trail activities, but they are participating more frequently. In joint public meetings conducted during the preparation of the Alabama Trail Plan and the Alabama Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan, stakeholders were asked to identify both outdoor recreation and trail needs. Not surprisingly, many of the outdoor recreation needs were related to trail development. With so many Alabamians utilizing trails that have been constructed during the last 25 years, a large number of support organizations have formed and partnerships have developed at the grassroots level. These past coordination and collaboration efforts are a step in the right direction for Alabama s future trails. Still, many of those organizations are continually looking for both planning and technical guidance and, even more, looking for funding. The rate of participation in both trail-related and outdoor recreation varies from one region of the state to another and in comparison to the statewide participation rates. Walking for pleasure was the activity in which the highest percent of the population participated in all but one region. In Region 8, freshwater beach activities has the highest percentage of the population participating. The percentage of the population that participates in walking for pleasure is highest in Region 1: Northwest Alabama and lowest in Region 11: North-central Alabama. There does not appear to be a geographical reason for this discrepancy since both regions are located across the northern part of the State. Five other trail-related activities were in the top ten in at least one of the regions in terms of the percentage of population participating. These activities are, in addition to walking for pleasure, visiting historical sites, camping at developed sites, trail hiking, ATV trail use, and driving for pleasure. Visiting historical sites is the number two activity in Region 11 and the number three activity in three regions (Region 1, Region 3 and Region 12). Percentage of Population Participating in Trail-Related Recreation Activities Regions In Comparison To State Key #1 Activity #2 Activity #3 Activity # 4 to #10 Activities REGION Activity STATE 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Walking for pleasure 65.3 72.2 64.2 72.0 67.1 56.7 70.8 63.8 63.2 65.2 71.6 55.7 59.5 Visit historical sites 41.6 50.0 46.6 51.0 42.0 25.0 16.3 39.4 43.4 37.5 42.0 54.2 42.7 Camping- dev. sites 20.1 19.3 13.5 19.8 24.7 9.6 18.0 26.2 27.4 18.4 26.3 20.1 14.5 Trail hiking 15.8 10.3 8.6 18.1 15.2 12.6 13.2 17.9 17.1 16.5 25.4 17.3 17.8 ATV trail 14.4 14.9 18.6 12.4 19.6 16.2 23.6 15.3 13.4 9.2 16.7 10.7 9.7 Jogging 14.4 8.2 11.1 13.9 11.7 11.1 19.4 16.8 19.4 17.3 20.0 4.0 14.7 Driving for pleasure 12.8 8.9 7.3 11.9 13.3 19.9 19.5 14.4 13.8 18.9 13.1 6.3 6.8 Canoeing / rafting 9.1 5.9 5.1 7.3 11.2 9.7 8.0 9.7 18.2 10.3 11.9 10.1 5.2 Bird watching 8.4 6.4 7.7 7.8 6.7 14.8 9.4 11.6 9.0 10.1 10.1 3.7 2.7 Nature photography 5.8 2.0 3.0 3.1 8.2 5.6 5.9 9.4 7.5 10.1 7.5 3.9 3.6 Roller skating outdoors 5.1 1.7 1.8 7.0 5.8 3.8 3.7 5.3 7.4 3.4 10.4 4.0 5.8 Horse trail riding 4.8 4.5 6.7 3.2 6.6 6.3 4.1 7.3 3.5 4.6 7.2 3.5 4.6 Camping primitive sites 3.2 2.8 0.4 2.6 6.0 4.4 1.0 4.3 4.7 2.5 6.7 1.6 2.2 Mountain bike trail 2.8 0.8 3.3 4.9 0.9 0.2 2.0 2.2 3.2 3.8 5.3 1.4 2.4 Bicycling on roads 2.7 2.7 7.2 1.3 0.7 2.2 2.3 5.4 1.0 3.0 4.7 1.3 3.0 Other horse riding 2.3 0.4 0.7 0.5 1.9 4.2 5.1 2.6 4.6 3.4 4.6 1.3 0.5 Motorcycle trail 2.2 2.2 1.1 3.2 2.1 2.4 2.0 2.8 1.5 2.9 2.6 3.2 0.6 Truck trail 1.7 2.5 0.3 1.1 0.5 4.5 0.7 4.8 0.0 2.4 2.0 1.2 2.1 Source: Troy University Center for Business and Economic Services Telephone Survey, 2008 x
Alabama State Trail Plan Summary, 2008 The frequency with which Alabama residents participated in trail-related activities presents an even higher level of demand than citizen participation rates. The survey shows that of the 65.3 percent of the population that participated in walking for pleasure, the average number of occasions in which they participated in the activity was 106.1 times per year. Likewise, jogging, which has a 14.4 percent participation rate, has an average frequency of 74.8 times per year; and, camping at developed sites, which has a participation rate of 20.1 percent of the population, has an average frequency rate of 9.2 times per year. Some trail-related activities that have a lower participation rate, of less than 10 percent of the population, have a relatively high average frequency rate. In other words, only a small group participates in an activity, but that small group engages in the activity on a regular basis. Examples of this situation include motorcycle trail riding, nature photography, bird watching, horse trail riding, and mountain bike trail riding. The participation rate for these activities ranges between only 2.8 percent to 8.4 percent of the population; however, the persons who partake in these activities do so, on average, of 28.9 times per year or more, which is equivalent to at least 2.4 times per month. This example is the reason why both the participation rate and the frequency rate must be taken into account when planning for trail facilities. It is likely that some trails may actually be used more by a small group of people than other trails in which a large number of people use the facility infrequently. These factors become especially important in working out the details for shared trail facilities or multi-use trails. The results of the Troy University SCORP survey show that are six outdoor activities in which the State population engages on average at least once a week, with a frequency rate of 52.0 or higher. Of these six activities, four are trail-related activities: walking for pleasure, jogging, driving for pleasure, and ATV trail riding. Of the 25 outdoor recreation activities in which the population participates in approximately every two weeks, with a participation rate of 26.0 or higher, 11 are trailrelated activities. The trail activities that have an average annual frequency rate between 26.0 and 52.0 include motorcycle trail riding, outdoor roller skating, nature photography, bird watching, horse trail riding, hiking, and mountain bike trail riding. It is felt that these high volumes of both participation levels and frequency of participation speak very loudly since participation in trail-related activities generally takes some degree of planning and coordination, if only because the facilities themselves are not always close by to the general population s everyday routine of work and home chores/requirements. Photo Courtesy of Alabama Bureau of Tourism and Travel xi
Alabama State Trail Plan Summary, 2008 Trail Trends The Troy University SCORP survey gave credence to the observations that there is a huge upward swing in trail use in Alabama, both in the number of people who visit and utilize trails and how often they use trails. Trail facilities ranked high in almost every category throughout the State. This is a remarkable incidence considering that the survey queried activity levels for 40 different outdoor recreation activities. Furthermore, many of the activities were much more traditional recreation activities with greater accessibility than the existing trail system in Alabama s communities. The upward swing in trail use was echoed by trail and outdoor recreation stakeholders at a series of public meetings. It is clear that Alabamians want more trails, will use more trails and that they want a greater variety of trails. Currently, Alabama has more than 400 individual local trails stretching some 1,400 miles across the state. That is enough trail mileage to walk from the Gulf Coast to Little River Canyon four times. That trail mileage does not include Alabama s distance trails, which add approximately another 1,000 miles to the State s trail inventory. Trail Issues Although there are overwhelming positive aspects of trails in Alabama, there are also some painful aspects that must be addressed to the satisfaction of a large percentage of the population. The following trail issues were identified and discussed by trail and outdoor recreation stakeholders. There were often variations on the issues, but the predominant issues remained as accessibility and barriers to use, coordination of and education about trail activities, funding for planning and development, construction and maintenance, and availability, capacity and competing uses. Trail Benefits The great appeal of trails lies in the concept of connectivity. Trails multiply the benefits of conservation areas, parks and open spaces by linking them together. They can conserve native ecosystems and landscapes by providing connections that can sustain biodiversity in plant and animal communities. Along waterways they provide natural buffers between water and development. Trails can serve as walking and bicycling routes to work, school, local businesses and restaurants, parks and recreation sites. They can be used to conserve historic and cultural resources such as archaeological and historic sites. Trails in rural areas can be used to showcase working landscapes such as farms, groves and forests. Along scenic roadways, they provide travelers with a glimpse into Alabama s historic past. Indeed, the connections for Alabamians to their natural surroundings, to their heritage and to each other is the greatest benefit of the trail. Following connectivity, five categories of trail benefits were identified by trail stakeholders through discussion in public meetings: education, conservation, health and safety, feeding the soul, and economics. Atwood Linear Park Greenway, Huntsville Courtesy of the City of Huntsville xii
Alabama State Trail Plan 2008 Tuscaloosa Warrior Riverwalk Courtesy of Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs
Table of Contents Alabama Trail Plan Summary... i Acknowledgements Letter from Governor Bob Riley Alabama Recreational Trail Advisory Committee Vision 1. Introduction... 1 Recreational Trail Program Land and Water Conservation Fund Planning Process 2. Defining Trails... 7 Distance and Segmented Trails Interpretive Trails ATV / OHV Trails Mountain Bike Trails Bicycle Trails Multi-Use Trails Equestrian Trails Walking Trails Hiking Trails Water Trails 3. Trail Inventory... 19 Distance Trails Water Trails Outdoor Recreation Segmented Trails Inventory of Existing Trails 4. Demand and Resources... 51 Trail Demand Trail Resources 5. Trends, Benefits & Issues... 65 Trail Trends Trail Benefits Trail Issues 6. Alabama Trail Development Strategy... 71 The Alabama Trail Vision Alabama Trail System Goals and Strategies
Alabama State Trail Plan Summary 2008 Little River Canyon Courtesy of Alabama Bureau of Tourism and Travel
Acknowledgements The preparation of the Alabama Trail Plan, 2008 was financed in part through a planning grant from the National Park Service, United States Department of the Interior, under the provisions of the Land and Water Conservation Fund Act of 1965 (Public Law 88-578, as amended). Sincere appreciation is extended to those persons who attended the public involvement meetings and workshop that were conducted in conjunction with the preparation of the Alabama Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan, 2008-2012 and the Alabama Trail Plan and to those persons who were unable to attend but provided comments and suggestions. These plans are a reflection of your assistance, feedback and comments. The State of Alabama is a richer place because of your commitment to the ongoing improvement of outdoor recreation and trail opportunities. For additional copies or information, contact: Mr. Rob Grant Recreation Programs Director Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs 401 Adams Avenue P.O. Box 5690 Montgomery, Alabama 36103-5690 334-242-5483 rob.grant@adeca.alabama.gov SCORP Survey and Analysis by Dr. Mac Holmes Center for Business and Economic Services Troy University 102 Bibb Graves Hall Troy, Alabama 36082 334-670-3525 SCORP Document Prepared by Tracy P. Delaney South Central Alabama Development Commission 5900 Carmichael Place Montgomery, Alabama 36117 334-244-6903
Alabama State Trail Plan Summary, 2008 A Message From Governor Riley iii
Alabama State Trail Plan Summary, 2008 Alabama Recreational Trails Advisory Board Motorized Trails: Mr. Glenn Myers Munford, Alabama Mr. Robert Fuller Huntsville, Alabama Equestrian Trails: Mr. Bobby Whaley Alabaster, Alabama Mr. Patrick A. Denney Birmingham, Alabama Special Populations: Mr. Jerry Bynum Jackson s Gap, Alabama Pedestrian and Hiking Trails: Mr. James K. Lanier Eclectic, Alabama Mr. William M. (Bill) Matthews Killen, Alabama Urban Trails: Mr. Tom Maxwell Homewood, Alabama Ms. Debbie Quinn Fairhope, Alabama Bicycling: Mr. Bill St. John Cullman, Alabama Mr. Richard Martin Elkmont, Alabama Gateway at Monte Sano State Park Photo by Tracy Delaney iv
Alabama State Trail Plan Summary, 2008 The Alabama Trail Vision: Establish a well-defined and accessible statewide trail infrastructure through an interconnecting system that provides a variety of safe and unique trail opportunities; creating quality educational and interpretive experiences that result in increased use, sustainable development and additional tourism. v
Alabama State Trail Plan Summary, 2008 Alabama Trail System Goals and Strategies Connectivity Sustainability and Maintenance Distribution Of Information Work with trail organizations to develop framework for a proposed trail system infrastructure. Promote interconnection of trails whenever possible. Promote development of trails near population centers. Pursue development of side trails that connect rural areas to urban areas. Utilize best management practices in trail construction and maintenance to ensure trail longevity and minimal impact on surroundings. Conduct training workshop on sustainable construction methods and practices. Investigate feasibility of statewide standards for trail development to be considered part of Alabama Trail System. Develop an online statewide database of all trails in Alabama. Prepare a distribution brochure to inform public of existing and proposed trails. Build a one-stop shop for trail information in Alabama. Work with trail organizations to circulate information. Conservation and Promotion of Resources Trail Partnerships and Collaboration Increase Accessibility Work with conservation organizations to utilize trails as a means to protect natural resources. Properly utilize wetlands and floodplains for trail development to protect them from development. Promote the beauty of unique trails to mark their special place in Alabama s landscape. Foster partnerships through regular convening of various trail user groups. Investigate resources for all organizations to determine how funds can be leveraged to everyone s benefit. Establish common ground among trail stakeholder groups to begin collaboration process. Pursue accessibility within connectivity concept to promote trail use at all levels and abilities. Investigate, through design and construction, innovative and cost-efficient means of making trails more accessible. vi
Alabama State Trail Plan Summary, 2008 The Alabama Trail Plan Trails are an integral part of our history. From animal paths through the woods to the exploration of our country to planned and designed long-distance recreational treks, trails have moved us from Point A to Point B for any number of reasons. As old as the trail concept may be, each new trail brings an excitement that comes with a first discovery. In the last 25 years, Alabamians have embraced the resurgence of the recreational trail movement that has swept the United States following the creation of the National Trails System by Congress in 1968. This year, Alabama celebrated a new addition to the National Trails System the Alabama Scenic River Trail. On June 4, 2008, Secretary of the Interior Dirk Kempthorne designated the Alabama Scenic River Trail, along with 23 other trails, as a National Recreational Trail (NRT). The NRT designation officially recognized the Alabama Scenic River Trail as the longest one-state river trail in the nation. Secretary Kempthorne stated, The National Trails System, including these additions, provides an excellent link to the outdoors, particularly for children. National Trails exemplify partnerships and are providing a path to fitness and stewardship for Americans of all ages. Secretary Kemp s words echo the feelings of trail enthusiasts across Alabama. A renewed connection to the outdoors, fitness, environmental stewardship and trail partnerships are all part of the Alabama Trail System Concept. The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) is producing the Alabama Trail Plan to guide the development, expansion, and connection of recreational trails in the state. The Alabama Trail Plan has been prepared as a companion document to the Alabama Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan, 2008-2012 and thereby has been prepared according with the guidelines set forth in the Land and Water Conservation Fund State Assistance Program Federal Financial Assistance Manual, Volume 69 (effective October 1, 2008), Chapter 2: Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan and Open Project Selection Process. The public involvement process for the Alabama Trail Plan and the Alabama SCORP were conducted simultaneously using four methods to obtain public participation the planning process: coordination with related agencies and organizations, an extensive telephone survey, public meetings, and websites. The Alabama Trail Plan includes six separate components, organized as chapters: Trail Plan Public Meeting, July 2008 trail definitions, a trail inventory, trail demand and resources, trail benefits, identification of trail issues and barriers to use, and the trail strategy. The trail definitions chapter discusses the differences between recreational trails and other types of trails, what characteristics constitute a recreational trail, and categorizes trails by use into categories for trail planning purposes. The inventory is an initial compilation of existing recreational trails in Alabama. A chapter on trail demand and resources is included to insure that future trails meet the needs of Alabama citizens. Discussion of trail benefits provides information that may encourage more active participation in recreational trail use and development by various groups, while the discussion of trail issues and barriers is designed to determine how barriers can be minimized or eliminated to make trails more accessible to use by all population groups. The planning boundary areas of Alabama s 12 Regional Planning Commissions (RPCs) were used for the analysis and evaluation of demographic, physical characteristics, trail inventory information, and demand and need data. These regional areas segment the state into smaller, more manageable planning units. vii
Alabama State Trail Plan Summary, 2008 Defining Trails So what makes a trail a trail? Trail, path, track, route, trek, trace. These all are words that refer to a trail, but what exactly is a trail? For some, a trail has to have a destination, or a Point A and a Point B. In other words, to be a trail it has to go somewhere. For others, a short loop around a park constitutes a trail. And, for still others, a trail can be a waterway. When someone says the word trail, many different pictures come to mind. Most all of them will be correct. It may simply be a matter of how an individual is going to use a trail that defines what a trail actually is. A general definition of a trail that was developed for the purposes of the Alabama Trail Plan and agreed upon by stakeholders in public meetings is, as follows: A designated land corridor or body of water that provides recreational, aesthetic, alternate transportation or educational opportunities to both motorized and nonmotorized users, for all ages and abilities. The Alabama Trail Plan defines and discusses different types of trails based their use, their similarities and their differences. Ten trail definitions have been included based primarily on how a trail is traveled. The first trail category is to help define the distance or segmented trails that cross Alabama. The remaining nine use categories include: multi-use trails, walking trails, hiking trails, bicycle trails, mountain biking trails, all terrain vehicle / off-road vehicle (OHV/ATV) trails, water trails, equestrian trails, and interpretive trails. Trail Type Distance and Segmented Trails ATV / OHV Trails Bicycle Trail Equestrian Trail Hiking Trail Interpretive Trails Mountain Bike Trails Multi-Use Trails Walking Trail Water Trails Definition any type that is of considerable length, usually more than 25 miles, and passing through multiple jurisdictional areas; Segmented trails may be a group of short trails or sites that form a distance trail by virtue of their connectivity through use or theme. usually either a dedicated or multi-use unpaved trail and is typically eight to ten miles long. ATV trails, like other trails, can be developed as regional or distance trails stretching a 100 miles or more and crossing several jurisdictions. An ATV (all-terrain vehicle) is a small four-wheeled vehicle equipped with low-pressure balloon tires and intended only for off-highway use. An OHV (off-highway vehicle) is any motorized vehicle used for travel in areas normally considered inaccessible to conventional highway vehicles. OHVs may include dirt motorcycles, dune buggies, jeeps, 4-wheel drive vehicles. any corridor that is physically separated from motorized vehicular traffic by an open space or barrier. A bike trail is usually within the highway right-of-way or within an independent right-of-way. A bicycle trail is usually paved, but may be unpaved as well. a single dedicated use trail or a multi-use trail constructed of a stable unpaved surface for use by horses moderate to long distance trail with the primary function of providing long-distance walking experiences (usually two miles or more). a short to moderate length trail (1/2 to 1 mile) with a primary function of providing an opportunity to walk or paddle and study interesting or unusual plants or natural features at user's pleasure. corridor that is physically separated from motorized vehicular traffic by an open space or barrier and is usually unpaved, and often rocky, with various challenges in terms of hill, jumps and climbs. trail corridors that are physically separated from vehicular traffic and can be accessed by multiple users, such as cyclists, walkers, runners, wheelchairs, rollerbladers, etc. A separated path used for walking A recreational waterway on lake, river, or ocean between specific points usually within 15 miles of one another, containing access points and day use and/or camping sites for the nonmotorized boating public. viii
Alabama State Trail Plan Summary, 2008 Trail Inventory In taking advantage of the opportunities at hand, Alabamians have already constructed more than 1,400 miles of trails throughout the state. The great majority of these trails are local, ranging from one-half mile to 20 miles for longer treks. Some, however, are much longer and cross several jurisdictional boundaries. Many are located within Alabama s national and state forests, national preserves and refuges, and in state parks. Still others are located on land owned and/or managed by local units of government, nonprofit organizations, land trusts, utility companies, and private companies and individuals. It is expected that there are many more trails in Alabama that have not yet been included in the current inventory. The inventory categorized trails into one of nine types of trails: multi-use trails, walking trails, hiking trails, bicycle trails, mountain biking trails, all terrain vehicle / off-road vehicle (OHV/ATV) trails, water trails, equestrian trails, and interpretive trails. Information that was collected, as much as possible, included the following: trail name, location, address and directions, longitude and latitude, state planning region, tourism region, trail type, length, level of difficulty, surface material, owner and contact information, accessibility information, restrictions, other facilities present, hours, and any applicable fees. To date, 406 trails have been inventoried, representing just under 1,419 trail miles across the state. It is estimated that the inventory includes between 50 percent and 75 percent of the existing recreational trails in Alabama. Two major components that are still missing include walking / fitness trails and trails funded with Transportation Enhancement funds. It is expected that a large number of walking/fitness trails that have been constructed in conjunction with park development are not yet included on the inventory. Walking trails that have been funded with RTP funds, however, are included. Many trails that have been developed with Transportation Enhancement funds are transportation-oriented, such as sidewalks, rather than recreation. A thorough inventory of these trails will require a case by case survey to determine the nature of the trail. Region 1 Alabama Trail Inventory Summary by Region Name Northwest Alabama Council of Local Governments # of Counties # of Trails Miles of Trails Avg. Length 5 37 174.21 4.71 2 West Alabama Regional Commission 7 23 52.19 2.27 3 4 5 Regional Planning Commission of Greater Birmingham East Alabama Regional Planning and Development Commission South Central Alabama Development Commission 6 67 171.92 2.57 10 49 287.96 5.88 6 12 93.6 7.80 6 Alabama-Tombigbee Regional Commission 10 29 29.51 1.02 7 Southeast Alabama Regional Planning and Development Commission 7 37 100.75 2.72 8 South Alabama Regional Planning Commission 3 44 207.68 4.72 9 Central Alabama Regional Planning and Development Commission 3 8 11.35 1.42 10 Lee-Russell Council of Governments 2 11 19.19 1.74 11 12 North-central Alabama Regional Council of Governments Top of Alabama Regional Council of Governments 3 19 52.55 2.77 5 70 218.03 3.11 Total 67 406 1,418.94 ix
Alabama State Trail Plan Summary, 2008 Trail Demand The demand and pursuit of more and varying trails in Alabama is steadily increasing. Not only do survey results show more and more people participating in trail activities, but they are participating more frequently. In joint public meetings conducted during the preparation of the Alabama Trail Plan and the Alabama Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan, stakeholders were asked to identify both outdoor recreation and trail needs. Not surprisingly, many of the outdoor recreation needs were related to trail development. With so many Alabamians utilizing trails that have been constructed during the last 25 years, a large number of support organizations have formed and partnerships have developed at the grassroots level. These past coordination and collaboration efforts are a step in the right direction for Alabama s future trails. Still, many of those organizations are continually looking for both planning and technical guidance and, even more, looking for funding. The rate of participation in both trail-related and outdoor recreation varies from one region of the state to another and in comparison to the statewide participation rates. Walking for pleasure was the activity in which the highest percent of the population participated in all but one region. In Region 8, freshwater beach activities has the highest percentage of the population participating. The percentage of the population that participates in walking for pleasure is highest in Region 1: Northwest Alabama and lowest in Region 11: North-central Alabama. There does not appear to be a geographical reason for this discrepancy since both regions are located across the northern part of the State. Five other trail-related activities were in the top ten in at least one of the regions in terms of the percentage of population participating. These activities are, in addition to walking for pleasure, visiting historical sites, camping at developed sites, trail hiking, ATV trail use, and driving for pleasure. Visiting historical sites is the number two activity in Region 11 and the number three activity in three regions (Region 1, Region 3 and Region 12). Percentage of Population Participating in Trail-Related Recreation Activities Regions In Comparison To State Key #1 Activity #2 Activity #3 Activity # 4 to #10 Activities REGION Activity STATE 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Walking for pleasure 65.3 72.2 64.2 72.0 67.1 56.7 70.8 63.8 63.2 65.2 71.6 55.7 59.5 Visit historical sites 41.6 50.0 46.6 51.0 42.0 25.0 16.3 39.4 43.4 37.5 42.0 54.2 42.7 Camping- dev. sites 20.1 19.3 13.5 19.8 24.7 9.6 18.0 26.2 27.4 18.4 26.3 20.1 14.5 Trail hiking 15.8 10.3 8.6 18.1 15.2 12.6 13.2 17.9 17.1 16.5 25.4 17.3 17.8 ATV trail 14.4 14.9 18.6 12.4 19.6 16.2 23.6 15.3 13.4 9.2 16.7 10.7 9.7 Jogging 14.4 8.2 11.1 13.9 11.7 11.1 19.4 16.8 19.4 17.3 20.0 4.0 14.7 Driving for pleasure 12.8 8.9 7.3 11.9 13.3 19.9 19.5 14.4 13.8 18.9 13.1 6.3 6.8 Canoeing / rafting 9.1 5.9 5.1 7.3 11.2 9.7 8.0 9.7 18.2 10.3 11.9 10.1 5.2 Bird watching 8.4 6.4 7.7 7.8 6.7 14.8 9.4 11.6 9.0 10.1 10.1 3.7 2.7 Nature photography 5.8 2.0 3.0 3.1 8.2 5.6 5.9 9.4 7.5 10.1 7.5 3.9 3.6 Roller skating outdoors 5.1 1.7 1.8 7.0 5.8 3.8 3.7 5.3 7.4 3.4 10.4 4.0 5.8 Horse trail riding 4.8 4.5 6.7 3.2 6.6 6.3 4.1 7.3 3.5 4.6 7.2 3.5 4.6 Camping primitive sites 3.2 2.8 0.4 2.6 6.0 4.4 1.0 4.3 4.7 2.5 6.7 1.6 2.2 Mountain bike trail 2.8 0.8 3.3 4.9 0.9 0.2 2.0 2.2 3.2 3.8 5.3 1.4 2.4 Bicycling on roads 2.7 2.7 7.2 1.3 0.7 2.2 2.3 5.4 1.0 3.0 4.7 1.3 3.0 Other horse riding 2.3 0.4 0.7 0.5 1.9 4.2 5.1 2.6 4.6 3.4 4.6 1.3 0.5 Motorcycle trail 2.2 2.2 1.1 3.2 2.1 2.4 2.0 2.8 1.5 2.9 2.6 3.2 0.6 Truck trail 1.7 2.5 0.3 1.1 0.5 4.5 0.7 4.8 0.0 2.4 2.0 1.2 2.1 Source: Troy University Center for Business and Economic Services Telephone Survey, 2008 x
Alabama State Trail Plan Summary, 2008 The frequency with which Alabama residents participated in trail-related activities presents an even higher level of demand than citizen participation rates. The survey shows that of the 65.3 percent of the population that participated in walking for pleasure, the average number of occasions in which they participated in the activity was 106.1 times per year. Likewise, jogging, which has a 14.4 percent participation rate, has an average frequency of 74.8 times per year; and, camping at developed sites, which has a participation rate of 20.1 percent of the population, has an average frequency rate of 9.2 times per year. Some trail-related activities that have a lower participation rate, of less than 10 percent of the population, have a relatively high average frequency rate. In other words, only a small group participates in an activity, but that small group engages in the activity on a regular basis. Examples of this situation include motorcycle trail riding, nature photography, bird watching, horse trail riding, and mountain bike trail riding. The participation rate for these activities ranges between only 2.8 percent to 8.4 percent of the population; however, the persons who partake in these activities do so, on average, of 28.9 times per year or more, which is equivalent to at least 2.4 times per month. This example is the reason why both the participation rate and the frequency rate must be taken into account when planning for trail facilities. It is likely that some trails may actually be used more by a small group of people than other trails in which a large number of people use the facility infrequently. These factors become especially important in working out the details for shared trail facilities or multi-use trails. The results of the Troy University SCORP survey show that are six outdoor activities in which the State population engages on average at least once a week, with a frequency rate of 52.0 or higher. Of these six activities, four are trail-related activities: walking for pleasure, jogging, driving for pleasure, and ATV trail riding. Of the 25 outdoor recreation activities in which the population participates in approximately every two weeks, with a participation rate of 26.0 or higher, 11 are trailrelated activities. The trail activities that have an average annual frequency rate between 26.0 and 52.0 include motorcycle trail riding, outdoor roller skating, nature photography, bird watching, horse trail riding, hiking, and mountain bike trail riding. It is felt that these high volumes of both participation levels and frequency of participation speak very loudly since participation in trail-related activities generally takes some degree of planning and coordination, if only because the facilities themselves are not always close by to the general population s everyday routine of work and home chores/requirements. Photo Courtesy of Alabama Bureau of Tourism and Travel xi
Alabama State Trail Plan Summary, 2008 Trail Trends The Troy University SCORP survey gave credence to the observations that there is a huge upward swing in trail use in Alabama, both in the number of people who visit and utilize trails and how often they use trails. Trail facilities ranked high in almost every category throughout the State. This is a remarkable incidence considering that the survey queried activity levels for 40 different outdoor recreation activities. Furthermore, many of the activities were much more traditional recreation activities with greater accessibility than the existing trail system in Alabama s communities. The upward swing in trail use was echoed by trail and outdoor recreation stakeholders at a series of public meetings. It is clear that Alabamians want more trails, will use more trails and that they want a greater variety of trails. Currently, Alabama has more than 400 individual local trails stretching some 1,400 miles across the state. That is enough trail mileage to walk from the Gulf Coast to Little River Canyon four times. That trail mileage does not include Alabama s distance trails, which add approximately another 1,000 miles to the State s trail inventory. Trail Issues Although there are overwhelming positive aspects of trails in Alabama, there are also some painful aspects that must be addressed to the satisfaction of a large percentage of the population. The following trail issues were identified and discussed by trail and outdoor recreation stakeholders. There were often variations on the issues, but the predominant issues remained as accessibility and barriers to use, coordination of and education about trail activities, funding for planning and development, construction and maintenance, and availability, capacity and competing uses. Trail Benefits The great appeal of trails lies in the concept of connectivity. Trails multiply the benefits of conservation areas, parks and open spaces by linking them together. They can conserve native ecosystems and landscapes by providing connections that can sustain biodiversity in plant and animal communities. Along waterways they provide natural buffers between water and development. Trails can serve as walking and bicycling routes to work, school, local businesses and restaurants, parks and recreation sites. They can be used to conserve historic and cultural resources such as archaeological and historic sites. Trails in rural areas can be used to showcase working landscapes such as farms, groves and forests. Along scenic roadways, they provide travelers with a glimpse into Alabama s historic past. Indeed, the connections for Alabamians to their natural surroundings, to their heritage and to each other is the greatest benefit of the trail. Following connectivity, five categories of trail benefits were identified by trail stakeholders through discussion in public meetings: education, conservation, health and safety, feeding the soul, and economics. Atwood Linear Park Greenway, Huntsville Courtesy of the City of Huntsville xii