This is a collection of terms relating to the work of equity within the trails movement. The document provides definitions of terms like equity, equality, diversity, inclusion, cultural competence and equitable development. The definitions have been compiled from different cited sources.

The Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail is a developing 101-mile trail that connects dozens of Northeast Ohio communities. With 87 miles on the ground, this trail is an important economic asset in the region and a critical link in the Cleveland to Pittsburgh corridor, part of the Industrial Heartland Trails Coalition’s 1,500-miles-plus regional trail […]

This matrix is intended to present a summary of state laws pertaining to the legal liability of trail managers as of the year 2018. Every effort has been made to provide accurate citations and summaries in this matrix. However, due to the fluid nature of legislation and the limits of a summary format, Rails-to-Trails Conservancy […]

Electric bicycles—or e-bikes—are becoming increasingly popular nationwide. These bikes look like traditional bicycles but are equipped with an electric motor that can be used to assist the rider. While there are a variety of e-bike types—ranging from pedal-assist, which simply give riders a boost, to bikes with throttles that allow users to choose to pedal […]

The Mon River Trail System is a vibrant 48-mile rail-trail network in north central West Virginia and a critical link in the Parkersburg to Pittsburgh connection envisioned by the Industrial Heartland Trails Coalition. The Mon River Trail System Economic Impact study revealed the system’s impact on the region and Monongalia County’s growing economy, where business […]

Rails-to-Trails Conservancy has conducted surveys along trails in Pennsylvania and New Jersey for over 10 years. This infographic shows the aggregate responses for rural trails from surveys conducted from 2006 to 2016.

This fact sheet describes the rise of trails, walking and bicycling in Austin, Tx. which other communities can learn from.

Railbanking is a method by which lines proposed for abandonment can be preserved for future rail use through interim conversion to trail use. This document introduces the What, Where, Why, When and How of railbanking, and includes a sample railbanking and Public Use Condition request with the required Statement of Willingness to Assume Financial Responsibility.

Trail advocates sometimes use the old mantra, “Build it and they will come,” to describe the immediate success of new trails. But complexities of the built and social environments in urban areas present factors that may affect trail use and require programmatic interventions to encourage use once the trail is constructed. Research indicates that strategies […]

Studies have shown that trails themselves do not generate crime. However in many urban areas, crime and safety are serious, pervasive issues, and even the perception of trail safety may influence trail use. Addressing concerns about crime and violence is particularly important in low-income urban communities where residents, especially children and women, may not be […]