Trail Development | United States

Professional, Sustainable Trail Planning, Design, and Construction

Backyard Trails works with communities and project partners to create natural-surface trails and facilities that are enjoyable to use and grounded in long-term stewardship.

SERVICES

Customized to our clients' specific needs and objectives. Additional options available, for more information on services not listed here, please Contact Us

Trail Use Best Practices

Guidance on trail management, promotion, events, mapping, and long-term stewardship.

Trail Inventory and Assessment

Electronic reports documenting existing conditions, including maps, observations, and recommendations for improvement, variety, and connectivity.

Trail Rehabilitation and Maintenance

Improving existing trails and systems, addressing wear and damage, and enhancing connectivity between trail networks.

SERVICES

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MISSION

To help people transform their communities through the power of natural-surface trails.

VALUES

Quality

Thoughtful, well-built trail experiences with lasting character.

Accessibility

Trail experiences that welcome a wide range of users and communities.

Community

Collaborative relationships that bring together volunteers, partners, and professionals.

Advocacy

Long-standing experience helping trail projects move from idea to reality within communities.

Well-being

Supporting physical, mental, and community health through access to trails.

VISION

To be a trusted regional resource for weaving thoughtful natural-surface trails into the fabric of communities.

MEET KEN...

Ken Barker

OWNER

Ken Barker has been building and riding trails for decades, developing a deep, experience-based understanding of what makes trail systems work. His travels with friends and family to first-rate trails across North America have shaped a belief that well-designed trails are a powerful way to connect people to place and to one another.

Before focusing full-time on trail development, Ken worked in the field of education, where collaboration, creativity, and clear decision-making are essential. He led teams in designing and delivering student-centered programs, experience that continues to inform how he approaches complex, community-based projects.

Ken’s approach to trail building reflects a commitment to quality and sustainability, blending science-based design with creativity and care. As he puts it:

“Building trails is an art form. Trail concepts and design best practices are based in science, with new techniques continually evolving; however, the final result is truly a work of art. This merging of science and creativity contributes to unique and exciting trail experiences. I strongly believe these sorts of trails should be within striking distance of every home.”

KEN BARKER