A nature trail can serve as an outdoor interest or recreational purposes.  If your property is large enough, a nature trail can be integrated into your landscape. Most nature trails are constructed of crushed limestone, recycled asphalt or wood chips.  Nature trails do not need to be huge in order to make a statement.  If you have a wooded property, you can create a trail from your home to the edge of your woods.  Nature trails can serve as an access point to the edge of your property.  If you want to keep your trail as natural as possible, wood chips offer the best natural material selection.  There are wood chips that are specifically made for use in playgrounds and walking areas.  These wood chip products tend to be more uniform in size and smaller than other blends.

Nature Trail

Where to put a nature trail.

Nature trails can be constructed through large campuses or in your own back yard.  Nature trails can tie multiple attractions together.  Installing a nature trail along side a pond is a great way to allow access to the area.   Installing a nature trail through wooded areas will allow users to safely enjoy the beauty that nature provides.

Landscaping near a nature trail can be minimal or extensive.  Most open field trails only have the first five feet on each side of the trail maintained.  Installing grass along the trail will help reduce erosion while at the same time creating a safe buffer between the trail and the surrounding areas.  Some trails include prairie grass installation.  Cutting a trail through a prairie grass field can make for a scenic view.  Wild flower plantings offer a visual effect.  Not only do the flowers produce beautiful blooms, the blooms can also attract humming birds and butterfly’s.  Keeping the surrounding landscape as natural as possible will help make the trail feel more welcoming.