|
|
| |||||||
|
Trail "Stuff" Trails Defined - Checklist - Kids Activities - Advantages of Trails - Trail Benefits - Trail Etiquette
Trails are defined as (according to Northern Trail Collaboration):
Back to TOP Checklist for before you leave:
Back to TOP Trail Activities for Kids
Back to TOP Advantages of Trails Affordable Most trails used recreationally are free of charge or require only a minimal contribution, which helps keep the trails maintained Nearby and Accessible Trails can be found in most communities, and can be easily accessed. Some trails have gravel surfaces, but others are paved. Contact local trail groups for more information. Variety No two trails are exactly the same, and many trails can be used for various activities such as biking, hiking, inline skating, and cross-country skiing. Educational Trails offer users first-hand experiences with different plants and animals, and are a unique way to learn about the history of the community. Relaxation Trails offer beautiful scenery and calming clouds, without the interruptions of city-life. Back to TOP Trail Benefits Better Health Trails support an active lifestyle that leads to improved health. Physical activity can help prevent diabetes, heart disease, osteoporosis, obesity, and depression. Trails are definitely well-suited to help people become more active, as many are designed to accommodate activities such as walking, jogging, and bicycling. Trails are readily accessible to most people, and are an inexpensive way to attain daily exercise. Trails also provide activity to a wide range of people, including persons with disabilities, children and youth, and the elderly. Strong People, Strong Economy Trails attract people into communities, and tourism increases local economy by creating jobs. Many trail users purchase equipment such as mountain bikes, snowmobiles, hiking boots, and equestrian equipment. Many Canadians are beginning to take vacations closer to home, which puts money into local restaurants, accommodations, and retail businesses. The Ontario Trails Council estimates that at least $2 billion a year are contributed to the provincial economy due to trail use. Trails also increase property value, as a home near a trail can offer peaceful settings, a pleasant view, and recreational opportunities. Strong Communities Trails help strengthen social fabric. Most trails require volunteers to help keep them accessible, and this allows people to work together for a common interest. Volunteers are working together on their own time, sharing in meaningful activities, hence creating strong communities. Many trail builders and users depend on the generosity of land owners, as many trails are found on property owned by individuals. Trail construction and maintenance builds partnerships among community groups, property owners, businesses, governments, trail members, and residents. Conserving and Appreciating the Environment Trails lead visitors through varied landscapes. They allow people to experience diverse plant and animal habitats like wetlands, forests, and historic places in the area. Trail guides and signage can educate people about the history of the land as well as various features along a trail. Trails can lead through sensitive lands, but having well worn paths help protect fragile environments by providing a safe walk-way through these areas. Trails give people a chance to experience wilderness, which is a major attraction for tourism. Trails also provide people with the opportunity to connect with the environment, and appreciate the natural heritage of the area. Back to TOP Trail Etiquette - Stay on the main trails. Some areas surrounding trails are very fragile and sensitive to disturbances, and therefore can be easily destroyed. Animals live near trails and do not like to be disturbed. - Some trails are only open in certain seasons. Please obey the signs that are posted along trails - they are there for your safety! - Please stay on the right to allow other users to pass. If you plan to take a rest, please move to the side. - Make sure to check with local trail groups or conservation authorities as to whether the trails you plan to visit require a user fee. These fees help to keep the trails maintained. - Leave the trails as you found them. Pick up your garbage and do not gather plants from the trails. This will ensure that the trails and the surrounding environments remain intact for years to come. - Respect neighboring land owners. Some trails are located on private property, and the owners of such property have been generous enough to allow the public access to the trails. Remember, land owners have the right to allow or forbid people on their land at any time. Respect for the owners will ensure that the trails can be accessible in the future. Back to TOP
|
