Regularly spaced seating nodes invite trail users of all ages and are critical to the enjoyment of a greenway.
Seating areas provide a rest area along a length of trail, and should be designed to be comfortable and inviting. See Layout Standards for spacing recommendations.
- Use this along trail segments between trailheads.
- Concrete pad or specialty pavement to accommodate a bench.
- Allow 5’-0” width of pavement alongside bench to accommodate ADA access.
- Bench to be set a minimum of 3’-0” away from trail surface to provide trail shoulder.
- Pad for interpretive signage is only necessary where signage is desired. However, the configuration of the bench opposite the signage node is preferred where it does occur.
- Shade is critical.
- A 3’-0” flat area that does not exceed 20:1 should be graded around the bench and interpretive sign pad to prevent maintenance issues at edges of pavement.
- Bench at these locations should be multi-functional, when possible. Backed benches provide a place for users to lean bicycles and are preferred.
Recommended Layout
COMPONENTS: Click below for more information on each component.
1) Primary Trail Surfacing – Concrete
2) Benches
3) Primary Trail Surfacing – Asphalt (Concrete Header Optional)