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a) Locate nature paths to maximize enjoyment to the user, but minimize <br />impact to the natural area. For example, set trails away from sensitive <br />areas, but allow trail users the opportunity to view the area from a <br />reasonable distance. <br />b) Minimize the number of areas where paths cross creeks or wetlands, or <br />where paths traverse steep slopes. Where paths occur in these areas, <br />provide bridges, boardwalks, and steps to provide a path that is safe to <br />pedestrians and also sensitive to the natural environment. <br />c) Limit nature paths to foot traffic only. Do not allow bicycles, snowmobiles, <br />or horses on nature paths. <br />d) Provide interpretive signs along the paths. Also provide signs that <br />encourage people to stay on the paths. <br />e) Where appropriate provide some seating areas for resting or wildlife <br />observation. <br />f) Provide a variety of nature paths that accommodate various users and are <br />sensitive to the natural environment. For example, provide some paths <br />that are accessible to physically disabled people. These paths should be <br />6 -feet wide and paved with an appropriate material like concrete or <br />bituminous. Other paths may not be fully accessible to all people, but <br />would be more sensitive to the natural environment. For example, some <br />nature paths could be as little as 2 -feet wide and covered with wood <br />mulch. <br />g) Maintain nature paths to ensure that they are safe. <br />7. Multi -Use Trails. Hardwood Creek Trail is a multi -use regional trail located on <br />the abandoned Burlington -Northern Railroad that runs parallel to Highway 61. <br />The trail begins in Hugo and extends north of Forest Lake. It is possible that one <br />day the trail could run from St Paul to Duluth. However, several segments of the <br />railroad have not yet been abandoned and may never be abandoned. One such <br />segment runs from White Bear Lake to downtown Hugo. This segment will likely <br />remain active to service Hugo's industrial park. Washington County is <br />responsible for constructing and maintaining the segment of the trail that runs <br />through Hugo and Washington County. The following recommendations pertain <br />to how the City of Hugo should respond to Hardwood Creek Trail: <br />a) Where possible, tie city trails into Hardwood Creek Trail. This will expand <br />trail opportunities for Hugo residents. <br />Chapter 7 7-37 <br />Parks, Trails, & Open Spaces <br />t0eo <br />