Multi-use Pathway
Proposed Natural Surface Multi-use Pathway
The Nolan Hill Community Association, in partnership with Calgary Parks and the Calgary Mountain Bike Alliance, is proposing a natural surface multi-use trail in the ravine area in the South of Nolan Hill. The proposal seeks to provide an alternative walking and cycling route through the ravine that will allow users to transit the parkway on a natural (dirt) surface further into the ravine area. The trail will provide an alternative to the paved pathway that runs immediately behind the houses bordering the ravine. It will have 3-4 connecting trails near the existing pathway entrances from the community.
Proposed Route: (total distance approximately 900m)
A natural surface multi use trail is a trail where the primary surface is dirt or rock. The trail is approximately 1m wide and bordered by natural plant life. The trail is designed and built to avoid pooling water, erosion and in locations that naturally clear themselves of snow quickly in order to reduce or eliminate the need for maintenance if the trail is used regularly. The trail is open to the public for walking, running and cycling. Examples of the trail can be seen in areas such as Bowmont Park area previously built and maintained by the Calgary Mountain Bike Alliance. An example image of a natural surface trail is below:
In other parks natural surface trails form on their own as park users walk through the grass in park areas. However, when this occurs the trails are often not placed or designed in any way to protect the natural environment and prevent the trail from eroding. By working with the City and Parks, as well as the Calgary Mountain Bike Alliance we have a chance to design and build the trail intentionally to minimize the effect on the park and prevent trail erosion in rain or while the winter snow melts.
The trail will encourage residents to use the park for walking, running and cycling, and provide an easily accessible natural trail for performing these activities. In particular, the CA hopes that the trail will provide an opportunity for youth in the neighborhood to try and practice biking on a natural surface.
What about the environment?
We have worked with Calgary Parks, their ecologists, and will have a professional vegetation survey along the trail route to minimize the affects on the environment along the route. The trail itself will not require large construction equipment and will be largely built with hand tools. Only minimal equipment will be used to rough cut the trail.
How can I provide feedback and who do I talk to if I have more questions?
Feedback can be sent to the community association at: masonhender@nolanhillca.ca.
We will review all feedback received and try to answer any questions promptly.