Having a good, readable map of your trail will greatly enhance your visitors’ experience. For one g, trail users can see the overall layout and plan where they want to go with the time they have. If the trail is a circle or a “go and return” affects the trail user’s plan and should be known ahead of time. If there are small branches off the main route of the trail with sites of interest they will get more visitors if they are on the map.

The map does not have to be to scale, as long as the distances are given. Identifying landmarks so trail users can note where they are, however, can be very helpful. (i.e. Large boulder, huge maple stump, beaver dam, rock piles, old well, etc.)

A good key showing what is trail, water, wetland, forest and field is essential. Buildings and roads on site should also be identified.

Sign numbers can be posted on the map and explained in the guide until permanent signage is in place.

Species symbols can be places on the map for trail users to watch for.

Below is an simplified example of a nature trail map with several of the aspects offered above and a good key. This map is not to scale but would work for basic trail needs.