Parks and Recreation System Master Plan Update (2016) parks_and_recreation_system_master_plan_update_oct | Page 119

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Shared use paths (non-Louisville Loop): 27 miles
Hiking, Biking and Equestrian Trails - Soft Surface
The LMPRD manages a varied system of soft-surface recreational trails for hikers, trail
runners, cyclists and equestrians. Staging areas are provided in a number of locations to serve as
trails heads, with parking, signs, and restrooms where feasible.
Potential conflicts between different user groups is
an issue of concern for soft surface trails as well as paved
trails. Such issues can be resolved through proper planning,
design, education and management. For example, trails
along narrow riparian corridors or sensitive natural areas
may be appropriate for limited development and use by
pedestrians only. In more suitable locations, wider trails can
be designed and managed to accommodate pedestrians,
bicyclists and equestrians as long as all three user groups are
part of the planning and design of the trails. Some trails can
be designed to accommodate two user groups such as hikers
and equestrians.
Mountain biking is a growing sport and park
Hiking at Jefferson Memorial Forest
managers must address several issues of concern related to use of mountain bikes on trails
including potential user conflicts and trail safety issues for pedestrians, equestrians and other
cyclists as well as environmental quality.
In areas where components of the natural environment such as soils and vegetation are
sensitive to disturbance, mountain biking and equestrians should be prohibited. Similarly, the
potential for damage to valued historic landscapes should be carefully monitored and, if
necessary, controlled. In addition to efforts at policing and enforcement, such potential
problems will also need to be addressed through education of mountain bicyclists and
equestrians about proper trail use, timing of trail use (e.g. not during wet or muddy conditions)
and designation of appropriately designed trails to accommodate the activity.
Development of cooperative working relationships with hikers, trail runners, mountain
bikers and equestrians must be part of the long-term strategy for providing appropriate
locations for these activities. The 1995 Plan recommended that LMPRD develop a minimum of
two designated mountain bike use areas within the parks system. It is important that the
location of these trails take into account the potential impacts on the park landscapes and their
natural resources. Mountain bike trails are now located in Cherokee, Seneca and Waverly Parks,
with a potential for additional trails to be developed in the western Moremen Hill section of the
Jefferson Memorial Forest. The Parklands of Floyds Fork has 10.5 miles of mountain bike trails
and 21 miles of hiking trails.
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IV. PARK AND RECREATIONAL FACILITY NEEDS ANALYSIS | October 2016 Update