Building a Long-Distance Adaptive Trail
WEBINAR: August 6, 2026, 10:00AM - 11:00AM PT
From Concept to Construction: Building a Long-Distance Adaptive Trail shares the story of how Foothills Conservancy of North Carolina came to pursue an adaptive trail design, the construction techniques and lessons learned along the way, and how they are continuing to advance the project through outreach and future planning.
The Wilderness Gateway State Trail is a newly developed, adaptive-optimized long-distance trail in the South Mountains of western North Carolina. The presentation aims to demystify the process of building adaptive trails and equip participants with insights and practical considerations for expanding accessibility and welcoming a broader range of trail users.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify key planning & design decisions that can lead to adaptive trail standards
- Recognize opportunities to expand accessibility during the construction process
- Describe construction approaches & design considerations that support adaptive trails
- Outline strategies for promoting adaptive trails & building long-term engagement
Presenters:
- Shane Prisby, Trails Program Director, Foothills Conservancy of North Carolina
- Katy Abrams, Communications Manager, Foothills Conservancy of North Carolina
This webinar is part of the Advancing Trails Webinar Series, which brings agencies, trail builders, planners, architects, advocates, and volunteers the latest in state-of-the-art information on all aspects of trails and greenways usually applicable to all trail types, with expert presenters.
About American Trails
American Trails is a national nonprofit that promotes and improves trails and greenways across the U.S. by providing resources, education, and advocacy for trail builders, planners, volunteers, and related groups.
The organization serves as the nation's collective voice for trails to increase funding and ensure trails are accessible for all people.
