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MA-012-16011742 Attachment A County of Orange Regional Riding and Hiking Trails Design Guidelines Adopted by the Board Of Supervisors on September 13, 1991-1- Page 14 of 49
Trails included in the Master Plan of Regional Riding and Hiking Trails should be developed in accordance with the following standards. The term "regional riding and hiking trails" as used in this document is meant to include hiking/jogging, equestrian, and mountain biking (non-motorized) use. However, a specific trail may be restricted from one of the aforementioned user groups for special reasons. Such restrictions are to be determined on a case-by-case basis and approved by the Director of Harbors, Beaches, and Parks and subject to an appeal process. In special locations where physical constraints preclude the practical implementation of a trail under the following standards, the Director of the Environmental Management Agency, or his designee, may approve a modification of these trail standards if public safety is not jeopardized and the purpose of the Master Plan of Regional Riding and Hiking Trails is carried out. Strict standardization among regional hiking and riding trails or even segments of the same trail is impractical because of the vast differences in topography and other physical characteristics and because of dissimilarities in kinds and extent of use. Standards are good, but flexibility is necessary. Therefore, design may vary among different trails or segments of trails according to development constraints and various special conditions. Nevertheless, certain basic standards, allowing for flexibility and for the safety and maintenance of the trail and their related facilities should be followed. 1. Trail Tread Width: (see Appendix A) 10 ft. minimum - service trail, major trail 4 ft. minimum - single track trail The actual trail width needs to be determined according to the level of use or the expected level of use. However, the trail width is not to be less than the minimum standard. 2. Trail Types: (see Appendix A) Service Trail: Multi-use, unpaved. This trail type is preferred for multiple use under most conditions. A majority of the Master Plan of Regional Riding and Hiking Trails are of this type. Service vehicles could use this trail, if necessary. Typical examples of existing such trails are unimproved fire and cattle ranch access roads. The Telegraph Canyon Trail is a good example of this. Single Track Trail: Unpaved, narrow gauge trail. This type of trail is for natural areas and steep terrain where environmental or topographic constraints require a minimum impact trail. These trails are not typically used in an urban or rural setting. They are more suitable for mountain areas, ridges, near creeks and other sensitive areas. Sections of the Wood Canyon Trail are a good example of this. Major Trails: Paved and unpaved, multi-use trail with shoulder. This serves as a major, multi-use trail where space and topography are not limiting factors. This type is ideal for projected high use -2- Page 15 of 49
trails. It provides adequate space for all three uses in a safe, effective manner. If possible, the equestrian trail could be separated with a landscape buffer or post fence. If construction funds or future maintenance is an issue, the 2-foot shoulder can be eliminated. Service vehicles could use this trail, if necessary. The Santa Ana River Trail North is a good example of this. 3. Shy Distances: (Horizontal Clearance) 4. Right-of-Way: (including easements) 5. Setbacks: (see Appendix A) 6. Vertical Clearance: (see Appendix A) 2 ft. minimum - flat ground, upslope, and downslope flatter than 4:1 slope. 4 ft. minimum - downslope steeper than 4:1 slope. Minimum - Trail tread width plus appropriate shy distances and ancillary trail improvements (i.e. retaining walls, fencing, etc.). 5 ft. minimum setback from existing or future curb face, edge of sidewalk or edge of paved or unpaved shoulder. 4 ft. minimum buffer separation from bikeway, sidewalk or other trails. 2 ft. minimum setback from retaining walls or fences. 12 ft. minimum vertical clearance beneath structures or tree limbs (see Appendix A for clarification). 7. Trail Fencing: Should be provided where horses need to be firmly confined within the trail width or for safety such as in specific areas of community and regional parks, steep slope areas, bridges, golf courses, and other potential hazard or high-traffic and general public use areas. The following are suggested standards for split rail and pole fencing when needed to separate the trails. However alternative materials and design standards may be allowed. Split-Rail Fencing Pole Fencing Material Wood such as Cedar Wood such as Cedar or Lodge Pole Pine Rail Size 2" x 3" min. 2½" min. Post Size 4" x 5" min. 4½" min. Post Spacing 6½" max. 7 to 8 Other standards: 1. Fence height should not exceed four feet (4) at the maximum. A threefoot (3) fence height may be appropriate for trails bordering on residential areas (bridge fencing excepted). -3- Page 16 of 49
2. The top of the post shall not exceed 6" above the top rail. 3. The height above the ground of the top rail shall be 48" ± 2" maximum. 4. The center to center distance between the top and bottom rails shall be 21" ± 3". 5. All posts shall be treated with a sealant from the bottom to 4" above ground level, plus what is required for installation as approved by the Building Department. Posts shall exhibit a minimum penetration of 1/8" on all treated surfaces. 6. Hitching Posts shall be constructed of 611 square posts, set one foot into the ground, reaching a 41 height. Rings for tethering horses will be attached to the top of the post. 7. Barbed-wire is prohibited as a trail fencing material. In the event of existing barbed-wire along a trail, additional fencing should be constructed to protect the trail user from the barbed-wire. 8. Other fencing may also be suitable and acceptable as trail fencing. Plantings such as trees, hedges, or large rocks can also serve as trail fencing or barriers. 9. Trails Signs: a. Consistency in signing is important to provide an identity to the County trails. All County trails should have specific and consistent signing that identifies them as such. b. Trail name signs should be placed at entry points, halfway points and other points where trail identification is needed. c. Directional signs should be placed, as appropriate, to clarify trail destination and direction to trail users. d. Signs should offset from the trail edge a minimum of 2 ft. However, exact location for the best visibility can only be done in the field. e. Signs should identify hazard points, clearance requirements or safety precautions, as warranted. f. Mileage signs should be located at trailheads. g. Trail user yielding signs should be placed at all trail heads and posted periodically, especially at trail crossings and along trails that accommodate a variety of users. h. Trail head signs should contain the following information: 1. Trail name -4- Page 17 of 49
Optional 2. Approximate length 3. Difficulty (see Difficulty Grading Standards, Appendix Q 4. Nearest staging area(s) 5. Allowed uses 1. Area map (location) 2. Illustrative elevation 3. Hazards 4. Common plants (i.e., poison oak) 5. Common animals 6. Hours of operation 7. Trail Description 8. Phone number where to obtain trail maps and other trail information i. Types of signs shall include directional signs, destination signs, warning signs, informational signs, and intersection signs: 1. Directional Signs: To be placed at intersections with roads or other trails, where paths could be confused. 2. Destination Signs: To be placed at appropriate locations to inform trail users of the distance and destination on various routes. These signs should be accompanied by directional arrows where confusion with other routes is possible. 3. Warning Signs: To be placed on the trail to warn trail users of hazardous conditions on the trail. 4. Informational Signs: To be used to provide miscellaneous information about the trail including restroom locations, mileage markers, water, etc. 5. Intersection Signs: To placed at intersections to warn both the trail user and oncoming traffic. j. Adopt-A-Trail signs are to be allowed on the trails. Adopt-A-Trail is a program geared to involve the community with trail maintenance. All trail signs should be located so as to be easily read from the trail. The copy should be large enough so that it is easily legible (21' high letters). Height of signs should be determined by vegetation and other surroundings, but usually 40 inches from the ground to bottom of a sign is a good rule. Material: Wood signs should be used, as they are most compatible with the natural environment and are economical to manufacture and maintain. California State Park System can be referenced for further details. Lettering may be -5- Page 18 of 49
either blazed into the sign or placed under plexiglass for easy updating and/or replacement. Metal signs should be used where vandalism may be a problem or where signs interface with public roadways where standard metal signs are used. Concrete signs and markers can also be used as a less expensive material in the construction of trail signs. Coloring: The County should adapt "trail colors" in order to uniform the signs; however, there must be enough contrast between the background and the wording to be legible. Location: In addition to signs posted at trail access points and midway, signs should be posted at crossings. Install trail yield instruction signs at all multi-use trail heads/ crossings. See Appendix B for Sign Examples. 9. Roadway Treatments: a. Street signage to warn motorists of impending trail crossings should be located in advance of trail crossings. Signs should meet County and State standards. b. Marking for trail crossings should consist of striping on the roadway surface and, where feasible, texturing (sandblasting) of the roadway surface. 10. Staging Areas: a. Staging areas provide a clearly perceptible, safe means to park a vehicle and enter the trail system. A staging area's most important function is to advise people of rules and regulations, trail etiquette (see Appendix E), potential health hazards, and permitted trail uses, and to-display a map(s) of the trail. Such information is commonly presented in a kiosk, bulletin-board format. b. Staging areas may vary in size depending on location, physical constraints and the type of traffic the trail demands. (i.e. A heavily used trail may need to accommodate up to 50+ trucks and trailer, while a less used trail may only need to accommodate less than 5 cars.) Parking lots may also be used as staging areas when there are no feasible alternatives. c. Where feasible, staging areas should be located within regional or state parks or be adjacent to arterial highways. d. Surfacing with well-drained, non-cohesive soils is desirable, where feasible. e. Following is a list of general guidelines for staging area design: -6- Page 19 of 49
1) Locate staging areas at key access points, no more than 10 miles apart. 2) Locate staging area signs near the main roadway. 3) Reduce the need to build new staging areas by using existing parking facilities such as those in local and regional park. f. Incorporate as many of these elements as is feasible and appropriate for the site of the staging area: 1) Identification signs, including trail signs (see section 9.g). 2) Marked parking stalls long enough for a car and horse trailer and laid out so that straight-ahead entrance and exit is possible. 3) Water for horses. 4) Water for riders and hikers. 5) Hitching posts. 6) Picnic tables. 7) Rest rooms. 8) Shade. 9) Trash receptacles. 10) Bicycle racks. 11) Pay phones. See Appendix D for Optimal Staging Area Design. See Appendix E for Mixed-Use Trail Etiquette. 11. Rest Areas: Rest areas-are smaller facilities that accommodate fewer people than staging areas, and they may or may not accommodate parking spaces. Rest areas for trail users should be located within regional or local parks, state parks, and staging areas as first priority and at other feasible locations to seek a desirable minimum spacing of 3 to 5 miles. Rest areas should also be near neighborhoods and other areas to reduce the need for large staging facilities. Rest areas should provide the following: a. Hitching posts. b. Water for horses. c. Water for hikers and riders. d. Identification signs. e. Picnic tables. f. Rest rooms, where feasible. g. Shade. h. Trash receptacle. i. Bicycle racks. 12. Grades: Should be a maximum of 10% consistent with adjacent terrain (10-foot rise in 100 linear -7- Page 20 of 49
feet). Grades of 1%-7% are ideal. Maximum grades should be as follows: Less than 250 20% Less than 500 15% Greater than 500 10% Long stretches of a given grade should be avoided. The grade should undulate gently to provide natural drainage and to eliminate monotonous level stretches. No grade should be so steep that erosion is a problem. Grades should be lessened at approaches to switchbacks and the turns should be as nearly level as practical. Approaches to road crossings should be nearly level. 13. Drainage: Requires a special study of precipitation, runoff, springs, and streams in the area. Surface water must be diverted from the trail's surface before it builds up to an erosive force. The method used to drain the trail will depend on the quantity and speed of the water, the type of soil in the area, and the grade of the trail. The best and simplest drainage is to slope the trail surface, 2%-3%, to allow the water to sheet off, rather than run in a stream down the trail. Low grades help prevent drainage problems; steep grades allow the water to flow faster building up an erosive force. Drainage (i.e. culverts, ditches) should not be located in the pathway of the trail. Landscaping next to trails, especially along urban trails can help to facilitate better drainage. Emphasis should be placed on the importance of maintaining the integrity of the trail as part of the landscape design. 14. Surfacing Materials: The trail may be treated or surfaced in areas where: the dust caused by trail use presents a problem; it is needed to prevent erosion; or it is needed to improve slick or muddy conditions. Surfacing color and type should always be compatible with the surrounding environment. Landscaping next to trails, especially in urban trails can help to facilitate better drainage. Emphasis should be placed on the importance of maintaining the integrity of the trail as part of the landscape design. See Appendix F for Surfacing Materials. -8- Page 21 of 49
15. Proximity to Roadway: In combined trail systems, the bicycle trail should be located closest to a roadway. 16. Raised Push Buttons: Raised push buttons should be installed at all signalized intersections interfacing with trails. 17. Barriers: To prevent motorcyclists and automobiles from using the trails, log barriers (i.e. bollards) may be placed appropriately at trail entrances. 18. Undercrossings: Should be used when an at-grade crossing is unsafe and a bridge is not feasible. The rectangular dimension of a culvert should be at least 121x 101. They should have no bends and should be separate from creeks. They should have textured surfaces. They should also be provided with adequate drainage and lighting as required for safety. 19. Bridges & Trestles: Bridges/trestles are not usually necessary for crossing water, and they may necessitate an unnecessary expense. They should be used only when there are no feasible alternatives. Prefabricated bridges may be used. Also, the possibility of utilizing old railroad cars needs to be researched; they have been successfully used in other parts of the country. The following are minimum bridge/trestle standards. However, additional research needs to be done to determine more specific bridge standards. a. Width: Minimum - 10 ft. Optimum - 20 ft. (i.e. over freeways) b. Side Railings: Must provide for some type of visual blockage such as a solid wall or a privacy cloth. The purpose of this is to prevent the horse from becoming distracted by its surroundings (i.e. freeway traffic). Additionally, the railings must provide for some type of physical barrier to prevent one from falling off the bridge or trestle. c. Side Railing Height: Minimum - 5 ft. Optimum - 6 ft. Maximum - 8 ft. d. Camber: Slope of Bridge: 5% - 8% 10% maximum for short distances with increased surface texture. -9- Page 22 of 49
e. Surface: Non-skid, textured. (i.e. rubber, wood, cement) f. Bridges should never be completely enclosed. 20. Wet Crossings & Puncheons: Wet crossings (such as fords) should be utilized, as needed, to cross creeks, rivers, streams, etc.. Generally, bridges are not necessary for crossing water, and they may necessitate an unnecessary expense. Puncheon structures are log or timber structures built close to the ground (31 or less) with or without hand railings. It may be used to cross small drainages, wet areas or other places where turnpikes or causeways are not effective. It usually consists of mud sills, stingers and wood decking. Something as simple as stumps across a low flow creek can be used as a wet crossing for equestrian (i.e. Handy Creek in Orange Park Acres). See Appendix G for Wet Crossing and Puncheon Examples. 21. Culverts: When surface flows or subterranean springs are intercepted by a trail, a culvert may be placed perpendicular to the trail in such a manner to redirect the water and divert it to the downhill side of the trail. All culvert outflows shall be directed into the natural watercourse of the intercepted flow. The size of the culvert should be sufficient to adequately carry the maximum peak flow of water anticipated and promote self-cleaning. See Appendix G for Culvert Examples. -10- Page 23 of 49
APPENDIX A Trail Dimension Criteria & Trail Definition Types -11- Page 24 of 49
SERVICE TRAIL: Multi-use, unpaved This trail type is preferred for multiple use under most conditions. A majority of the Master Plan of Regional Riding and Hiking Trails are of this type. Service vehicles could use this trail, if necessary. Typical examples of existing such trails are unimproved fire and cattle ranch access roads. Suggested Standards Width 10.0 feet minimum Maximum Grade 10% Suggested Uses Equestrian, mountain bike, hiking Surface Packed dirt, decomposed granite Sample Trail Telegraph Canyon Trail -12- Page 25 of 49
SINGLE TRACK TRAIL: Unpaved, narrow gauge trail This type of trail is for natural areas and steep terrain where environmental or topographic constraints require a minimum impact trail. These trails are not typically used in an urban or rural setting. They are more suitable for mountain areas, ridges, near creeks and other sensitive areas. Suggested Standards Width 4.0 feet minimum Maximum Grade 10% Suggested Uses Hiking; equestrian and mountain bike as trail design and conditions permit Surface Packed dirt or gravel, decomposed granite, bark (Gravel can only be used in the base material) Sample Trail Wood Canyon Trail -13- Page 26 of 49
MAJOR TRAIL: Paved & unpaved, multi-use trail with shoulder This serves as a major, multi-use trail where space and topography are not limiting factors. This type is ideal for projected high use trails. It provides adequate space for all three uses in a safe, effective manner. If possible, the equestrian trail could be separated with a landscape buffer or post fence. If construction funds or future maintenance is an issue, the 2 foot shoulder can be eliminated. Service vehicles could use this trail, if necessary. Suggested Standards Width 10.0 feet paved 4.0 feet equestrian tread 2.0 feet ped. tread Maximum Grade 10% Suggested Uses All Surface Asphalt, decomposed granite Sample Trail Santa Ana River Trail North -14- Page 27 of 49
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APPENDIX B Trail Signs Page 29 of 49
COUNTY TRAIL MARKER UNIFORM TRAIL MARKER FOR ALL COUNTY TRAILS: HEIGHT: MATERIAL: 4 FEET 4 x 4 WOOD POSTS, CONCRETE POSTS, OR SOME OTHER SUITABLE MATERIAL INFORMATION: TRAIL MARKER SHALL HAVE THE TRAIL NAME, DIRECTIONAL ARROW, AND YIELD SIGN TO DEPICT MULTI-USE. OPTIONAL INFORMATION SHALL INCLUDE, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, A MILEAGE INDICATOR AND THE COUNTY SEAL. (We use Carsonite type sign post and name stickers along the Regional Trails and Bikeways now Note: 2006) http://www.carsonite.com/ -17- Page 30 of 49
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APPENDIX C Difficulty Grading Standards -20- Page 33 of 49
Suggested DIFFICULT GRADING STANDARDS 1. GOOD (G) or NOT DIFFICULT (ND): Majority of the trail is on a 0%-8% slope. Trail is well marked, maintained, cleared, and graded. Frequent acess points, so that there is a possibility of any length of ride. Great for leisure hikes and would present no difficulty for equestrians or bikers. 2. MODERATE (M) or MODERATELY DIFFICULT (MD): Majority of the trail is on a 8%-12% slope. Less clearance, more climbs, more river crossings., more downed timber. Less access points. Better for the imtermediate rider or biker or experienced hiker. 3. DIFFICULT (D): Majority of the trail is on a 12% or greater slope. This would be a less frequently maintained trail. Requires one to be in good physical condition and an experienced horse. May require bikers to have advanced skills. -21- Page 34 of 49
APPENDIX D Staging Area Diagram -22- Page 35 of 49
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APPENDIX E Trail Etiquette -25- Page 38 of 49
MIXED-USE TRAIL ETIQUETTE* 1. Reckless/negligent use on all trails will be prohibited. All persons shall ride or operate at a safe, controlled speed and in a responsible manner. Excessive speed and reckless/negligent operation are prohibited. 2. Control your horse or bike. Be alert and attentive. 3. Keep to the right of the trail. 4. Be sensitive to the trail. Even on open trails, you should not ride or hike under conditions where you will leave evidence of your passing, such as on certain soils shortly after rain. Respect the surrounding environment and sensitive habitats. Be sure to f1pack-out" at least as much as you "packin." 5. Remain on designated trails only. Respect trail closures and do not trespass on private property. Obey all directional and instructional signs. 6. Safety helmet use is recommended for mountain bikers and equestrians. 7. Yielding: Except as dictated by special conditions, bikers shall yield to both pedestrians and equestrians, and pedestrians shall yield to equestrians. Equestrians shall be aware and considerate of bikers and pedestrians. 8. Make known your approach well in advance. A friendly greeting is considerate and works well; don't startle others. Show your respect when passing others by slowing down or even stopping. Anticipate that other trail users may be around corners or in blind spots. 9. Never spook animals. All animals are startled by an unannounced approach, sudden movement, or loud noise. This can be dangerous for you, for others, and for the animals. Give animals extra room and time to adjust to you. 10. Motorized vehicles are prohibited. *NOTE: The contents may be altered by the Director of Harbors, Beaches, and Parks as appropriate. -26- Page 39 of 49
APPENDIX F Surfacing Specifications -27- Page 40 of 49
SURFACING SPECIFICATIONS Trail Type Hiking - Backcountry Distance Hiking - Internally within a campground or other facility Horse*& Mtn. Bikes - Including pack animals Surfacing Material Natural with rock added in wet areas covered with soil cement, dirt, and/or DG Natural if possible, gravel woodchips, or a combination of all three Natural if possible, gravel in wet areas covered with soil cement, dirt, and/or DG Woodchips do not make a good surface for trails * If the trail is other than a single-purpose trail (multipurpose) the design requirements will be geared to the most demanding specification within the planned uses. SOURCE: Department of Interior, Bureau of Outdoor Recreation, Land Between the Lakes, Tennessee Valley Authority, National Trails Council, Parks and Recreation Administration, The University of Tennessee at Martin, Proceedings of the Third National Trail Symposium, 1975; page 34. -28- Page 41 of 49
TRAIL SURFACING (By Soil Type) A) Loams, sandy loams, well graded gravel B) Sands, loamy sands, decomposed granite *C) Clays, clayey loams, Silts, Silty loams, loess D) Cinders on railroad ROW's dirt roads *E) Wet, boggy soils Wetting & Composition (Dust Oils may be necessary) Clay (or lime) or soil cement wetting & composition crushed aggregate surfacing perhaps 3 thick as a base material with a surface covering of DG or clean soil compacted 90% Satisfactory Flat stones covered with small rocks or gravel for support or timber puncheon if flat rocks not available * These soils do not make satisfactory trail surfaces due to problems of dust, muddiness and poor wear resistance. SOURCE: Department of Interior, Bureau of Outdoor Recreation, Land Between the Lakes, Tennessee Valley Authority, National Trails Council, Parks and Recreation Administration, The University of Tennessee at Martin, Proceedings of the Third National Trail Symposium, 1975; page 46. -29- Page 42 of 49
APPENDIX G Wet Crossings & Puncheons and Culverts -30- Page 43 of 49
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