How to Build a Nature Trail

Getting out in nature is an excellent way to build muscle, increase endurance, lose weight and clear the mind. Building a nature trail is a great way to get plenty of vigorous outdoor exercise while creating something that will give you a sense of accomplishment when you've completed it.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Shovel
• Hoe
• Map
• Game plan
• Help from family and friends

Prepare to Build a Nature Trail

1. Find a location where a nature trail will enhance the terrain.
2. Formulate a general plan. Sketch out what you want to plant or build and where you want to place it.
3. Gather all the tools you will need. Depending on how elaborate you want your nature trail to be, you might need shovels, rakes, hoes, rope, wood, rail road ties, axes, pick axes, wheel barrows and/or plants.
4. Find out if you need to have a permit where you want to build your nature trail and apply with the proper authorities at the Bureau of Land Management (see Resources below).
5. Take special care for special contingencies, such as building on a slope or creating drainage. You can learn more about these contingencies at Wikipedia.com (see Resources below).
6. Enlist the help of your friends and family. Building even a small nature trail is a big task, and you'll most likely need all the assistance you can get.

Build a Beautiful Nature Trail

7. Check the local weather forecast. Nothing will put a damper on your trail-building experience than an unexpected downpour.
8. Be a leader. Assign tasks to others depending on ability and interest. You'll get a lot more done and have better results if you delegate responsibilities.
9. Clear away brush. Simply removing tree limbs, rocks and debris will go a long way toward creating a trail.
10. Keep an eye out for hazardous conditions and wild animals. If you're building in a remote wilderness area, you may encounter unexpected situations and potentially dangerous animals, such as bears, mountain lions or moose.
11. Have fun. Building a nature trail can be one of the most rewarding things you do with those close to you, and your finished trail can bring you years of enjoyment.
12. Bring plenty to eat and drink. Building a nature trail is hard work, and working outdoors will increase your water requirements. Staying hydrated is very important.
13. Keep up the good work. Your trail will need periodic maintenance and repair.

Tips & Warnings

• Start out with a general sense of how you want to build your nature trail, but be prepared to improvise as conditions require. If you accept help from family and friends, be open to their suggestions and creative input, as well.
• Make sure to get all the proper permits before you start building your nature trail to avoid possible fines or other penalties.
• Wear sunscreen. Even overcast days can lead to a nasty sunburn if you stay outside long enough.