The TRAIL tool (Trail Routing, Analysis, Investigation, and Layout) enables users to develop and evaluate alternate road and trail locations from one point to another across the landscape. The trail selection process is based on ESRI’s Least-Cost Path LCP algorithm. Risks and costs along potential trail locations are evaluated according to terrain conditions (slope, ruggedness, soil wetness, streams, vegetation height and density), machine type (load per tire footprint), and access restrictions (Limited Use Zones). For details regarding tool development and application, see Campbell (2012, MScF thesis), and Campbell et al. (2012).

Features:

• Easy installation
• Intuitive user interface
• Full help system with FAQ
• Support for LiDAR
• Support for multiple GIS data formats
• Quickly create multiple scenarios based on user preferences
• Calculation of cut/fill volumes as well as culvert dimensions where stream crossings are warranted
• Evaluation of multiple scenarios

The TRAIL tool can be utilized in 3 different ways:

1. Download a 30-day free license.

2. A 1 year license (contact us for more details and to register for a license).

3. Custom subscription (The Forest Watershed Research Center offers data compilation and TRAIL execution services on a contract basis. Contact us if you are interested in taking advantage of our in-hour expertise).