Whether you’re planning a new trail, assessing an existing one, or simply want to understand how trails are rated, these downloadable resources from Trails SA will help guide your next steps.
Trail Design Guidelines
Guidelines for the Planning, Design and Maintenance of Recreational Trails in South Australia – Revised 2016
This comprehensive guide covers everything involved in planning, designing and maintaining recreational trails across South Australia. It includes best-practice standards for trail construction, surface types, signage, accessibility and environmental considerations. An essential reference for trail managers, councils and community groups involved in trail development.
Trail Difficulty Rating Systems
Understanding trail difficulty ratings helps users choose trails that match their skill level and experience. These standardised rating systems are used across South Australia to classify trails by terrain, gradient, obstacles and technical challenge.
Mountain Bike Rating System
The mountain bike trail difficulty rating system uses a colour-coded scale from green (easiest) through to double black diamond (extreme). It covers factors such as trail width, surface type, gradient, obstacles and technical features to help riders find trails suited to their ability.
Horse Rating System
The horse trail rating system classifies equestrian trails based on terrain difficulty, hazards and suitability for different levels of riding experience. It helps riders and trail managers ensure safe and enjoyable riding experiences across a range of landscapes.
Trail Check Action Planner
A practical checklist designed for community volunteers and local groups who are considering developing shared-use trails in their area. This planner walks you through the key steps and considerations before breaking ground, including land access, environmental assessment, community consultation and maintenance planning.
South Australia Recreational Trails 10 Year Master Plan
The Trails Master Plan sets out the long-term strategic vision for recreational trail development across South Australia. It identifies priority trails, investment opportunities and policy directions to grow the state’s trail network and support tourism, health and community wellbeing outcomes.
Master Plan Summary
A condensed overview of the full Master Plan, highlighting the key findings, priorities and recommended actions. Ideal for a quick understanding of the strategic direction for South Australia’s trail network.