Five Miles of Trails
Introducing a trail system that would allow visitors to enjoy the natural landscape while respecting the ecology of the preserve was of the highest priority. The specific ecosystem determined the type of trail material to be used. Areas that would sustain heavy foot traffic were constructed of brick pavers. The 8-foot wide brick paver trail allows water to infiltrate and return to the adjacent native prairie while offering a suitable path for bicycles, wheelchairs, strollers and walkers.
Granite fine paths meander along the perimeter of the central and southern trails of the preserve. Allowing a higher amount of infiltration, the granite fine paths make a suitable environmental for mountain bikes and hiking shoes.
Boardwalks were installed in wetland areas, encouraging visitors to observe the unique plant systems that thrive in a wet environment. The boardwalks are comprised of the same sustainably harvested redwood that was used in the construction of the Pavilion. Hardy, long-lasting wood reduces the impact on our natural and human resources.
The smallest trail system, created using wood chips, brings visitors to an area that hosts numerous native plant species as well as a view of the Coffee Creek riparian corridor restoration. The wood chipped trail has the least impact on the native ecosystem and allows the greatest amount of infiltration.
