Trail Planning

All trails in the Sam Houston National Forest (and all national forests) are classified by their intended design and management standards.  The Trail Class Matrix drives the trail design parameters.  The Design Parameters are the technical guidelines for the survey, design, construction, maintenance, and assessment of National Forest System trails.  Each trail segment has a TMO (Trail Management Objective) that defines its design and management goals.  The TMO for a specific trail segment can be obtained by contacting the USFS Trails Coordinator.

More USFS resources on trail design and planning:

Trail Management Basics

Trail Fundamentals and Trail Management Objectives

FSH 2309.18 Trails Management Handbook

USDA Trail Construction and Maintenance Notebook