All Persons Trail:
Planning your Trail

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When planning an accessible trail, user experience must be the first consideration. All Persons Trails offer various visitor experiences, for example, landscapes, unique features, viewpoints and multi-sensory elements. 

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  1. Distance
  2. Terrain
  3. Grade
  4. Trail Width
  5. Obstacles & Protruding Objects
  6. Boardwalks

1. DISTANCE

  • When designing an All Persons Trail, consider a loop that connects a variety of features and viewpoints. 
  • To be as inclusive as possible, a 1-2 km trail is recommended. Many people look for longer or more adventurous trail experiences; however, for All Persons Trails, the intention is to develop a trail that is safe and enjoyable for as many people as possible. 
An autumn day with leaf's on the gravel trail at Stony Brook, Mass Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary

Stony Brook, Mass Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary (Massachusetts, USA). Photo credit: Trisha Kaplan

2. TERRAIN

  • To allow use by the greatest number of people, a firm and stable surface is important, such as asphalt, concrete, crushed aggregate, rubber or boardwalk. 
  • Minimize cracks, holes, bumps and roots; any wooden planks should be placed horizontally across the trail, rather than vertically along the trail. 
  • Choose surface material that minimizes maintenance. 
An adult male in a wheelchair on a gravel surface holding a guide cane in each hand.

The Salt Marsh Trail (Nova Scotia) features a wide, hardpacked gravel surface.

An adult, facing the opposite way, stands on a paved pathway leading to a bridge.

This section of the Bow River Pathway (Calgary) is paved, with smooth transitions between the trail and the bridge. Photo credit: Alexa Fernando.

An adult in a wheelchair on brick, firm surface.

This section of the trail in Sault Ste. Marie (Ontario) uses brick to create a firm, stable surface.

3. GRADE

  • Minimal grade is recommended, preferably under 5%.
  • If longer sections of steeper slopes are necessary, consider adding flat rest areas with seating along the slope.
A paved trail at Agur Lake Camp (BC) features accessible, paved trails with low grade changes and colour contrasting along the edge.

The trail at Agur Lake Camp (BC) features accessible, paved trails with low grade changes and colour contrasting along the edge. Photo credit: Trisha Kaplan.

4. TRAIL WIDTH

  • Clear width should be free from obstructions.  
  • Plan for two users with wheelchairs to pass each other. 
  • Consider space for service animals. 
  • Remember that electric wheelchairs require more space than manual wheelchairs. 
  • If narrower sections are needed, add passing spaces at regular intervals. 
Two adults walking on a paved trail. One adults is guiding another in a wheelchair.

The Galloping Goose Trail (Victoria) offers plenty of space for passing trail users with wheelchairs.

An adult on a mobility scooter on a wide, hard-packed gravel surface

This trail in Quispamsis (New Brunswick) is an example of a wide, hard-packed gravel surface that is still accessible.

5. OBSTACLES & PROTRUDING OBJECTS

  • Help keep trail users safe by avoiding these common obstacles:
    • Tread obstacles that interrupt the evenness of the trail surface, including rocks, roots, cracks and ruts.  
    • Vertical obstacles such as trees, shrubs or signage. 
    • Other objects, such as benches, planters and bike racks can create a barrier. Keep this in mind when planning the placement of objects along your trail and remember to keep them off the path of travel.
Adults on accessible bikes on a trail surrounded by trees

A clear trail free from any obstacles, such as this one in Falcon Lake (Manitoba), ensures that all visitors are safe.

An adult on an adaptive mountain bike on a trail in Morning Mountain Regional Park (BC)

This trail in Morning Mountain Regional Park (BC) has a clear width and vertical clearance.

6. BOARDWALKS

  • If the boardwalk is lengthy, consider making it wide enough to allow two people using electric wheelchairs to pass easily or create passing spaces at regular intervals. 
  • Ensure that the approach to the boardwalk has an even surface with no steps, gaps or openings. 
  • Use firm, non-slip materials whenever possible. 
  • Provide edge protection along all boardwalks, bridges and lookouts. 
A wide and clear trail at the Voyageur Cycling Route (North Bay)

This photo along the Voyageur Cycling Route (North Bay) is wide and clear, with edge protection and minimal cracks between wooden planks.

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