Trails should provide grade-separated crossings of auto traffic wherever feasible, especially when roads or trails with high traffic volumes are involved. However, when grade-level traffic crossings are unavoidable, they should be well marked for both motorists and trail users, regulated properly with signs or signals, and include a striped crosswalk. However, gates that block trails or bollards that create extremely narrow passage are unnecessary, annoying, prevent access by wheelchair users and will deter transportation usage. Roadway striping establishing a bike lane or shoulder and warning signs for motorists and trail users are advised. For example, plantings should be limited to low shrubs, existing vegetation should be well trimmed, and creation of secluded areas avoided.
Access is critically important to the use of trails for transportation.
Spur connections are especially important in residential areas, shopping districts and office complexes. Access points should be frequent, direct and well marked. A beautifully designed trail is useless to a bicyclist or pedestrian who cannot get to it, or cannot get directly from it to a desired destination. Signs are a must to show trail users what destinations are accessible, how far away they are and which spur trails can be used for direct access. Signs on roadways adjacent to the trail and crossing the trail should advise local bicyclists and sidewalk users of each trail access point.