New Zealand Mountain Bike

Trail Design & Construction

Guidelines
Background
Mountain biking has quickly become a mainstream sport, with a broad range of bike
trails being developed around New Zealand.

Projects are now being driven by land managers such as the Department of
Conservation (DOC), iwi, local and regional councils, and private landowners. Thus
adding a more structured and professional approach to complement the well-
established volunteer based, club driven structure.

Often the project manager or engineer managing the project has no background in
the sport, and the volunteer driver may be light on the steps needed to produce a fit
for purpose product.

This updated guideline is intended to help all parties develop and clarify their
understanding of the creative elements that go into delivering a fun trail experience
at each of the six grades of difficulty.

This guideline gives a detailed and defined specification for new trails at each grade.
It also provides a template for the maintenance and auditing of existing trails. Any
organisation involved with developing, building, maintaining, or auditing a trail is
encouraged to use these guidelines - with the overriding goal for NZ to have a level
of consistency and continuity around trail grading to ensure a fantastic user
experience.

Updated August 2022

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Trail Specifications
Specification Grade 1 Easiest Grade 2 Easy Grade 3 Intermediate Grade 4 Advanced Grade 5 Expert Grade 6 Extreme

Colour (NZ Grading) Green Green Light Blue Dark Blue Black Double Black

Target Audience Suitable for all ages and most Riders develop balance and gear Riders develop controlled braking Riders develop accurate line Riders develop skills to control a Riders develop supreme bike and tyre
fitness levels.The trail feels safe to choice skills. Trail shall be well- skills, and gain riding experience. choice, controlling braking on the bike in sections of trail where placement accuracy. Trail may not be
ride and is ideal as a first ride for formed, smooth, with some These trails can be narrow with edge of traction and gain further there is poor or no traction. Grade passable in wet weather conditions.
non-cyclists, and those wanting gentle climbs, is predictable with some hills to climb. There may riding experience. Obstacles 5 trails are technically These trails include those purposely
an easy gradient or experience. no surprises, and is suitable for also be some exposure to drop- increase in size and frequency, challenging with big hills, often built downhill / free ride trails for
They shall be well-formed, flat, beginner riders. Trail has a social offs. Rider needs the skills to ride track width varies. Some lots of rocks and some walking technically advanced and highly
wide, and smooth. The trail allows aspect with riders able to ride narrower tracks and maintain backcountry trails may also be likely. Grade 5 trails may traverse experienced riders. Grade 6 trails may
for cyclists to ride two abreast side by side at times but majority balance on a narrower surface two-way at this grade. a wide range of terrain and cater traverse a wide range of terrain with
most of the time and provides a of the trail provides for a single and steer to avoid or ride over for riders with generally high large jumps and obstacles catering for
social component to the ride. rider. Suitable for most ages and obstacles. levels of skill and experience. extreme riders.
Cyclists will be able to ride the fitness levels. Easier “B” Lines should be
total distance of the trail without provided around un-roll-able Trails at this grade should be one-way.
dismounting for obstacles. obstacles.

Trails at this grade should be one-

way.

Sideslope <5° Minimum Trail Tread Width One- Minimum Trail Tread Width One- Minimum Trail Tread Width One- Minimum Trail Tread Width: Minimum Trail Tread Width: Minimum Trail Tread Width: 100mm
way or Two-way: 1.5m way: 900mm, Two-way: 1.2m way: 600mm, Two-way: 1.2m 300mm 250mm

Sideslope 5 - 15° 1.5m 900mm, Two-way: 1.2m 800mm, Two-way: 1.2m 300mm 250mm 100mm

Sideslope 15 - 30° 1.8m 1.2m 900mm, Two-way: 1.2m 400mm 250mm 100mm

Sideslope 30 - 45° 2m 1.2m 1.2m 500mm 250mm 100mm

Sideslope over 45° 2.5m 1.5m 1.2m 600mm 250mm 100mm

Two-way width Regular passing bays, and or/wider sections of trail should be incorporated to assist two-way trail flow One-way trails only

Guidance
• As sideslope on down hillside of the track increases, the potential of a fall from height increases. Allow extra width where side slopes are steepest and reference the requirements for guardrails/barriers where necessary
(table1).
• Tread outslope of 1-5°should be utilised where possible, except for insloped corners and where insloped water table drains are needed for boggy ground(fig 1).
• The cut batter or backslope should not be vertical (unless it is solid rock), but be blended at a minimum of 60°or less, as soil material and site conditions require(fig 1). Note vertical height restrictions for compliance/consent.
• Some sections of trails at Grade 4 and above may not actually be formed and the actual width be discernible in rooty or rocky areas.
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Uphill / Two-Way Trails
Specification Grade 1 Easiest Grade 2 Easy Grade 3 Intermediate Grade 4 Advanced Grade 5 Expert Grade 6 Extreme

User Experience Riders desire to experience a consistent climb at whatever grade is stated. Riders also desire an interesting experience while climbing, with the opportunity for views and staging areas where available and good use of natural features and trail
design to enhance the adventure. If two-way, riders desire a safe and fun experience with good sight lines and visibility, with the opportunity to safely pass and interact with other trail users

Average Gradient 2° (1 in 28.6) for no less than 98% 3.5° (1 in 16.3) for no less than 95% of 5° (1 in 11.4) for no less than 90% of 7° (1 in 8.2) for 90%of the trail 10° (1 in 5.7)for 90% of the trail 15° (1 in 3.7) for 90% of the trail
max (see guidance) of the trail the trail the trail

(A) Steeper uphill Maximum of 3° (1 in 19.1) Maximum of 5° (1 in 11.4) Maximum of 7° (1 in 8.2) Maximum of 9° (1 in 6.3) Maximum of 13° (1 in 4.3) Maximum of 16° (1 in 3.1)
gradients may occur
up
to 200m long

(B) Slopes up to 10- Maximum of 4° (1 in 14.3) for up to Maximum of 6° (1 in 10.5) for up to Maximum of 10° (1 in 6.3) for up to Maximum of 12°(1 in 5.1) for up to Maximum of 15°(1 in 3.7) for up Maximum of 20° (1 in 2.7) for up to 20m
20m long. 10m 10m 10m 15m to 15m

Turn Radius to 6m ± 1m Minimum 4m, 5m minimum Minimum 2.5m, desirable minimum Minimum 2m, desirable minimum Minimum 1.5m, more if speed is Minimum 1m, more if speed is desired.
outside of tread desirable 3m or more if fast 3m, more if speed is fast desired.

Exceptions (Out of A and B combined plus the length of A and B combined plus the length of A and B combined plus the length of out of spec corners and trail width shall A and B combined shall not exceed 20% of the track length.
grade tolerance) out of spec corners and trail width out of spec corners and trail width not exceed 10% of the track length.
shall not exceed 2% of the track shall not exceed 5% of the track
length length.

Trail gradient, corner radius and width should be reasonably consistent. Where gradient, corner radius, and width are out of specification, they should be no more than one grade harder than the trail's target grade.

Guidance

• Average Gradient for the whole trail should include grade reversals and all shortchanges in elevation. However, if an Uphill (or Two-way)trail has a significant downhill section or sections, the elevation drop from those sections should be excluded
from the Average Gradient calculation.
• Any steep uphill sections of trail are best to occur before or after a flat section or grade reversal- not at the end of a long section at maximum gradient.
• Trail average gradients of 5.7°(1 in 10) are most sustainable. Trail gradients steeper than this are physically unsustainable, will erode quickly and require a high level of armouring and maintenance to keep to grade.
• Maximum sustainable trail gradients may need to be less than stated based on a number of environmental factors(see table 3).
• Grade reversals are recommended at intervals relative to the gradient and soil type of the trail; spacing between reversals should decrease as gradient increases (see table 2 and figures 3 and 4). A grade reversal should occur at every unbridged
water crossing point. Deeper grade reversals last longer before silting up.

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Descending Trails
Specification Grade 1 Easiest Grade 2 Easy Grade 3 Intermediate Grade 4 Advanced Grade 5 Expert Grade 6 Extreme

User Experience Riders desire to experience fun, descending trails that include playful features such as bank wall rides, side hits, enhanced grade reversal dips and rollers, higher bermed corners etc. These trail features, when combined with
natural scenery and views create iconic ride experiences.

Average Gradient 3.5° (1 in 16.3) 5° (1 in 11.4) 6° (1 in 10.5) 10° (1 in 6.3) 14° (1 in4) No target
max (see guidance)

Maximum Gradient 4° (1 in 14.3) 8° (1 in 7) 11° (1 in 5.1) 15° (1 in 3.7) 20° (1 in 2.7) downhill gradient.
(Sections of trail)

Turn Radius to 6m ± 1m Minimum 4m, 5m minimum Minimum 2.5m, desirable Minimum 2m, desirable Minimum 1.5m, more if speed is Minimum 1m, more if speed is desired.
outside of tread desirable minimum 3m or more if it is a fast minimum 3m, more if speed is desired.
trail. fast section of trail.

Technical Trail All features roll-able, no stepped All features must be roll-able. All features must be roll-able. Features mostly roll-able. Features mostly roll-able. Trail style will determine type of
Features i.e. jumps drops or built jumps. features.
and vertically Stepped drops maximum height Stepped drops max height of Gap jumps not roll-able must Gap jumps not rollable must have
stepped drops (Table of 200mm with gentle downhill 400mm with gentle downhill have clearly clearly identified “B” lines. No “B” lines required but are
6) transitions, and wide “B” lines. transitions. Identified “B” lines. recommended.
Stepped drops max height of
Design of rollers, rolling grade Jump ramp angle max 25°. Stepped drops max height of 1.5m No limit on jump ramp angle.
dips and reversals should also 600mm.
reference table 6 Jump Design Jump ramp angle max 35°.
Guidance with a max jump ramp Jump ramp angle max 30°.
angle of 20°.

Exceptions (Out of Length of too steep sections of Length of too steep sections of Length of too steep sections of trail plus the length of out of spec Length of too steep sections of No target
grade tolerance) trail plus the length of out of spec trail plus the length of out of spec corners and trail width shall not exceed 10% of the track length. trail plus the length of out of spec
corners and trail width shall not corners and trail width shall not corners and trail width shall not
exceed 2% of the track length. exceed 5% of the track length. exceed 20% of the track length.

Trail gradient, corner radius and width should be reasonably consistent. Where gradient, corner radius, and width are out of specification, they should be no more than one grade harder than the trail's target grade.

Guidance
• Average Gradient for the whole trail should include grade reversals and all shortchanges in elevation. However, if a descending trail has a significant uphill section or sections, the elevation gain from those sections should be excluded from the
Average Gradient calculation.
• Utilise a reverse gradient approach up and over a ridge before turning, rather than turning on a ridge (creating a blind corner).
• Grade reversals are recommended at intervals relative to the gradient and soil type of the trail; spacing between reversals should decrease as gradient increases (see table 2 and figures 3 and 4). Deeper grade reversals last longer before silting up.
• Trail average gradients of 5.7°(1 in 10) are most sustainable, regardless of trail grade. Trail gradients steeper than this are physically unsustainable, will erode quickly and require a high level of armouring and maintenance to keep to grade.
• Maximum sustainable trail gradients may need to be less than stated based on a number of environmental factors (see table 3).

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General Guidance
Specification Grade 1 Easiest Grade 2 Easy Grade 3 Intermediate Grade 4 Advanced Grade 5 Expert Grade 6 Extreme

Specific Principles

Maximum Corner +10deg - 2 degrees + 20 deg – 3 deg +40 deg – 3 deg No camber restrictions
Camber (table 4) Blending to flat inside radius Blending to flat inside radius Blending to flat inside radius

Tread Obstacles None Up to 50mm high Up to 100mm high Up to 200mm high Up to 600mm high No limit
(roots,
rocks, ruts)
Trail Surface (General) The surface of the trail shall be The surface of the trail shall be The surface of the trail shall be The surfaceof the trail shall be The trail surface will be highly variable and shall generally be the natural
well-formed, smooth, and even, well-formed, smooth, and mostly well-formed, even, and generally firm but may have surface and may include mud, water, roots, ruts, and embedded rocks.
and shall be made of durable durable. Surface material maybe generally firm. Trails may have some loose sections where the Major obstacles such as windfalls are to be removedor the track diverted
material, such as concrete, chip compacted AP40mm aggregate. some loose sections where the trail surface is broken by rock, around them. Generally minor obstacles such as rocks, tree roots and earth
seal or asphalt, or compacted top trail surface is broken by rock, roots, scree, or other obstacles. are not to be removed.
aggregate of AP20mm. Wet areas shall be drained. In dry roots or other obstacles. These These sections should still
weather the trail surface shall be sections shall still provide provide reasonably good riding The surface of the trail may be firm, loose and have muddy sections. There
Wet areas shall be drained. In dry such that it can be rode reasonably good riding conditions in all weather. will be steep climbs with unavoidable obstacles(including roots, rocks, and
weather the trail surface shall be comfortably without getting wet conditions in all weather. ruts) on a narrow trail. The trail surface shall be mostly well-formed and
such that it can be rode or muddy. Wet areas shall be drained. In dry even with wet areas drained
comfortably without getting wet Wet areas shall be drained. In dry weather the trail surface shall be
or muddy. weather the trail surfaces hall be such that it can be rode Up to 50% of the total length of track may have:
such that it can be rode comfortably without getting wet (a) short wet or muddy sections or
comfortably without getting wet or muddy. uneven or rough sections where the trail surface is broken by rock, roots,
or muddy. scree, or other obstacles. These sections must still provide reasonably good
riding conditions in all weather.

Mud None Trails can have up to 2% wet and muddy sections. These shall be no deeper than 50mm and should be Trails can have up to 2m of mud in every 50m, up to 300mm deep. Riders
rideable. To ensure that wet or muddy sections of trail are not excessively long, they should constitute no should typically expect to dismount for these muddy sections.
more than 1m in every 50m.

Electric Assist Mountain Bike (eMTB)

Class 1 electric eMTB up to 300W nominal power are categorised in NZ as a non-vehicle and are considered in the same category for trail access as 100% human powered mountain bikes. Land managers, trail designers and builders should consider
the enhanced capabilities of eMTB as follows:
• eMTB allow higher flat and climbing speeds up to power assist cut-off. Additional radius, camber and berm support on uphill corners are desirable features for eMTB use.
• eMTB allow riders to ascend steeper gradients, rougher surfaces, and harder obstacle climbing trails. The provision of technical climbing trails or optional technical sections on existing trails are desirable.

Adaptive Mountain Bike (aMTB)

aMTBs are three and four wheeled cycles that cater for a broad range of riders who may not otherwise be able to ride a two-wheeled mountain bike due to physical, intellectual, neurological, and sensory abilities. aMTBs:
• Accelerate slower, decelerate faster, are wider, longer, and heavier than two wheeled bikes.
• Some models are difficult to easily pedal while navigating a turn, and require good trail design to ensure momentum can be maintained.
• Sightlines for aMTB riders are much lower than for two wheeled mountain bikes, and consideration needs to be given for height of undulations, reverse gradients etc.
• Are primarily three wheeled in nature, and are prone to tipping when off-camber at low speeds.
Two wheeled trail specification generally also applies for aMTB use, but with the following modification and exceptions:

Width 1.8m min 1.5m min, 1.8m av 1.4m min, 1.7m av 1.2m min, 1.5m av 1.0m min, 1.2m av 1.0m min, 1.1m av
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Specification Grade 1 Easiest Grade 2 Easy Grade 3 Intermediate Grade 4 Advanced Grade 5 Expert Grade 6 Extreme

Maximum Gradient 4° (1 in 14.3) 8° (1 in 7) 11° (1 in 5.1) 15° (1 in 3.7) 20° (1 in 2.7) 20° (1 in 2.7)

Turn 7.5m flat corner 6m flat corner 6m flat or bermed 6m flat corner 6m flat corner 4.5m flat corner
4.5m bermed corner 4.5m bermed corner Less than 4m bermed corner

Bermed Corner Level Only enough to drain 20° max 20° max 30° max Above 30° possible
Camber

Trail Surface Hardened and surfaced Firm and stable Mostly stable, some variability Mostly stable, some variability Widely variable unpredictable
smooth

Tread Obstacles None Obstacles full width, 50mm high Obstacles full width, 100mm high Obstacles full width, 200mm high Obstacles full width, 250mm high or less
(rocks, or less. or less. or less.
roots, ruts)
Technical Trail All features roll-able, no stepped All features must be roll-able All features must be roll-able. All features must be roll-able. All features must be roll-able. Trail style will determine type of
Features (jumps and drops or built jumps Stepped drops maximum height Stepped drops max height of features.
drops) of 200mm with gentle downhill 400mm with gentle downhill Gap jumps or features requiring a Gap jumps or features requiring a
transitions, and wide “B” lines transitions. specific skill set or momentum to specific skill set or momentum to “B” lines required for features requiring
clear must have clearly identified clear must have clearly identified a specific skill set or momentum to
No built jumps Jump ramp angle max 25° “B” lines. “B” lines. clear.

Stepped drops max height of Stepped drops max height of No limit on jump ramp angle.
600mm. 1.5m.

Jump ramp angle max 30° Jump ramp angle max 35°

General Accessibility Accessibility to and from the trail(s) from the carpark needs to be carefully considered and allowed for, including any transition to trails, amenities and facilities

Specification Grade 1 Easiest Grade 2 Easy Grade 3 Intermediate Grade 4 Advanced Grade 5 Expert Grade 6 Extreme

General Principles
C1 Clearances to (fig Vegetation, Large rocks, Bridge abutments, Sculptures, Power and light poles, Sign posts and perpendicular drains:
7) All shall be cleared a minimum of 0.15m and a maximum of 0.3m from the outer edge of the trail tread and to a height of 2.4m from top of trail features, giving riders a clear passage and an unimpeded view of the surface.
Additional clearance of up to 800mm is necessary on bends where riders will lean into corners. 2.0 – 2.4m height clearance may be allowable in some circumstances (ie, bridge abutments, valuable trees, etc).

C2 Clearances to Fences, walls, bridge handrails, guard rails, steep slopes, banks and batters, rock faces, parallel drains, lakes, rivers, coastlines, hedges and buildings:
(fig 7) All shall be cleared a to minimum of 0.5m and a maximum of 1.0m from the outer edge of the trail tread and to a height of 2.4 m, giving riders a clear passage and an unimpeded view of the surface.

Cut/cleared Trees and shrubs should be assessed for their ecological value, and where possible, exotic species removed rather than native species. Trail alignment should be adjusted to avoid removing rare and/or large native trees
Vegetation which are valuable to the landscape and ecological values of the trail.
Treatment Options • All limbs should be cut flush(or to within 10mm) of the trunk or main branch or ground.
• All cut woody vegetation shall be removed from the track surface and vegetation <100mm Chipped, vegetation >100mmmoved out of site of the track. Note this option is only likely to be suitable for high value scenic
reserves, National Parks etc.
• All cut woody vegetation shall be removed from the track surface and, if practicable, out of view of the track, this option is typical for DOC and Council reserves.
• All cut woody vegetation shall be removed from the track surface and p laced beside track to biodegrade, does not have to be out of sight, this option is typical for Forestry Plantations.

Additional Clearances On shared use or two-way trails and within close proximity to junctions with walking tracks and shared use areas, vegetation clearance, especially on corners, shall be sufficient to allow good visibility to a recommended 10m
minimum sight distance for cyclists and walkers. Where riding speed is likely to be over 20kph, increase the sight distance to 20m if possible.

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Specification Grade 1 Easiest Grade 2 Easy Grade 3 Intermediate Grade 4 Advanced Grade 5 Expert Grade 6 Extreme

Environmental • Check local council rules, building consent requirements etc., any local planning restrictions/constraints and Resource Management Act requirements before design and construction.
Consideration • Earthworks machinery, hand tools and PPE should be cleaned before being bought on to site to avoid importing weeds and other contaminants.
• In native forests, and close to waterways, extra care needs to be taken to avoid soil erosion and sediment entering streams. Close to waterways, sustainable trail construction involves compacting dug soil on the side of the
track so that it doesn’t wash to streams. Berms and trail gradients will be gentler, to avoid soil erosion.
• Plant grass or native vegetation alongside the edge of the track as soon as possible after construction, to stabilise the edges and reduce visual impact. This may involve replanting plants that have been dug from the trail
alignment during construction.
• Imported gravel, soil and armouring materials must be from any weed-free source.
• Survey tags, left over construction materials/signs, spray painted marks and general rubbish should be removed at trail completion.
• A formal safety audit should be completed at trail completion, including assessing the safety of potential fall zones.

The minimum 1.2m with handrails/barrier to fall 1.2m. The approach to the 0.9m with handrails/barrier to fall 0.6m 0.4m 0.2m
structure width shall or 1.5m for boardwalks without structure for at least 10m should and 1.2m without.
be handrails/barrier to fall. The be the same width as the
approach to the structure for at structure.
least 10m should be the same
width as the structure.

For aMTB use minimum structure width shall be at least as wide as the aMTB minimum trail width.
Boardwalks The minimum boardwalk width The minimum boardwalk width The minimum boardwalk width The minimum boardwalk width Boardwalks are not generally provided on Grade 5 trails. Instead, where
(No handrails or shall be 1.5m. Boardwalks shall be shall be 1.2m. Boardwalks may be shall be 0.9m. The approach to shall be 0.6m. The approach to muddy, sandy, or swampy conditions exist tracks are to be drained,
barrier to fall). used over wet, swampy, sandy or used over wet, swampy, sandy, or the structure for at least 10m the structure for at least 10m rerouted, or raised. If there is no alternative, boardwalks may be constructed
muddy sections to achieve a muddy sections of the trail to should be the same width as the should be the same width as the only where they are necessary to mitigate significant environmental effects.
Width depends on stable dry surface for visitor achieve a mainly dry surface structure. structure.
the length, and the comfort and/or to protect the and/or protect the environment. Minimum 0.4m for Grade 5, 0.2m for Grade 6.
height of fall. environment. Alternatives to boardwalks, such
as drainage of wet areas or raised,
Measurement not hardened sections of track, may
including kickboards. also be used.

Bridges All major watercourses shall be Watercourses with less than All major and minor watercourses All major and minor watercourses Water courses shall be bridged where they cannot be safely crossed
(Flared handrails or bridged. 100mmof water in normal flow shall be bridged except fords shall be bridged except for fords without the help of others during times of normal water flow. Watercourses
barrier to fall required and can be easily ridden shall not with less than 200mm of water in with less than 300mm of water in shall also be bridged where:
to provide handlebar Minor watercourses should also have bridges; all other normal flow. normal flow. (a) No reasonable alternative wet weather track exists.
clearance) be bridged, except where watercourses shall be bridged. (b) They cannot be safely crossed unassisted when in flood.
culverting may be more The minimum bridge width shall The minimum bridge width shall (c) Floods occur with a frequency that means the water course is a barrier to
appropriate. Culverts may be utilised where be 0.9m. The approach to the be 0.6m. The approach to the progress or becomes a significant hazard.
appropriate. structure for at least 10m should structure for at least 10m should There is no accommodation/shelter within two hours riding distance where
be the same width as the be the same width as the visitors can wait until the river/stream conditions improve
structure. structure.

Culverts may be utilised where Culverts may be utilised where

appropriate. appropriate.

Guardrails/barriers Where a significant hazard (such as bluffs) exists and there is no other alternative, a barrier or guardrail shall be provided. Barriers and guardrails shall extend for the full length along which the
significant hazard exists. Utilise the information provided in table 1 for all other fall type situations.

Viewing Platforms Viewing platforms may be provided in appropriate places along the trail. Viewing platforms shall not generally be provided on these trails.

Steps No ‘walking’ steps, no stiles. ‘Walking’ steps are undesirable, however may be used as long as less than 1% of track length.

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Specification Grade 1 Easiest Grade 2 Easy Grade 3 Intermediate Grade 4 Advanced Grade 5 Expert Grade 6 Extreme

Shelters & Toilets at those locations that are popular stops. Toilets should ideally be provided at an interval of not less than 15 km and not greater than20km apart.

Entry Barriers Bollards, gates etc. should be sized to allow accessibility for all users, including for aMTB use where appropriate.

Furniture Seats and picnic tables may be provided. Seats and picnic tables are not generally provided on these trails.

Signage Ideally include riding times, distances and grid references at entrances, exits and at all junctions. Significant points of interest along or at the end of the trail should be signposted. At locations where there is a jump to a
higher grade, signs shall be provided with appropriate symbols and words to describe the change. An orientation/track information sign should be provided at entrances with more than one riding option.

Trail Type Including ‘aMTB’ on trail signage indicates the trail is suitable for adaptive mountain biking.

Shared Use Trail The trail shall be clearly labeled as one suitable for pedestrians and cyclists by use of appropriate symbols at track entrances and junctions. At junctions where the trails change from dual use to only
Signage walking or off-road cycling there shall be appropriate symbols to inform the user.

Guidance One of the most difficult sections of trail should be at the start, to act as a ‘gateway’ or ‘filter’ that deters riders with not enough skill. Difficult sections should be no more than one grade harder than the overall trail grade.
The safest tracks are ‘grade consistent’.

9
Table 1 Guideline for the Provision of Barriers Beside
Tracks & Structures (Based on SNZ HB 8630:2004)
Measure Fall Height Hf 1.5m out from edge of track (or structure) that is <1.5m high. For structures that are between 1.5 and Grade 1 & 2 Grade 3 Grade 4 Grade 5 & 6
2m high measure Fall Height Hf at the same distance out from the structure as it is high. For Structures, >2m high, measure Easiest & Easy Intermediate Advanced Expert & Extreme
Fall Height Hf 2m out from the structure edge.

Fall onto a benign surface presenting features that will tend to reduce the effect of impact Hf> 3.5m Type A barrier Hf > 2.0m Type B barrier Hf > 2.5m Type C barrier Hf > 3.5m Type C barrier
(a) Deep moss Hf = 2.0-3.5m Type B barrier Hf <2.0m no barrier Hf <2.5m no barrier Hf <3.5m no barrier
(b) Soft vegetation Hf < 2.0m no barrier
(c) Shallow still water deep enough to cushion a fall
Swamp

Favourable surface presenting features that neither reduce nor amplify the effect of impact Hf> 3.0m Type A barrier Hf > 1.5m Type B barrier Hf > 2.0m Type C barrier Hf > 3.0m Type C barrier
(a) Gravel Hf = 1.5-3.0m Type B barrier Hf < 1.5m no barrier Hf < 2.0m no barrier Hf < 3.0m no barrier
(b) Sand Hf < 1.5m no barrier
(c) Deep water with reasonable means of exit
Grass

Unfavourable surface presenting features that will tend to amplify the effect of impact Hf > 2.5m TypeA barrier Hf > 1.0m Type B barrier Hf >1.5m Type C barrier Hf > 2.5m Type C barrier
(a) Jagged stones Hf = 1.0-2.5m Type B barrier Hf<1.0m no barrier Hf < 1.5m no barrier Hf < 2.5m no barrier
(b) Concrete pavement Hf < 1m no barrier
(c) Deep water without reasonable means of exit
Sharp vegetation

Hazardous surface presenting features that will result in serious harm, regardless of the effect of fall to the initial impact point Type A barrier Type B barrier Type C barrier Type C barrier
(a) Swiftly flowing water without means of exit
(b) Boiling mud or water
(c) Extended falls arising from rolling or sliding, following initial impact, on terrain whose slope exceeds 35°.
Mitigating factors such as vegetation likely to arrest rolling shall be taken into account when assessing extended falls.

Note 1: The above table is derived from SNZ HB 8630:2004 and uses DOC’s correlation between their Visitor/User Groups and MTB trail grades 1-6.
Note2: For tracks and structures with tread width <1.2m it’s recommended that barriers be angled outwards at approx. 5° from vertical to allow clearance for handlebars
Note 3: For structures <1.5min height and not requiring building consent, the following linked references provide ideal construction information and templates: WCC Description and Frame Group Drawings

3.22 Barrier construction

3.22.1 Type A Barriers

If openings are present, they shall be small enough to prevent a sphere of 100 mm diameter or greater passing through. Barrier components that are between 150mm and 760mm above the deck (or stair nosing) shall be constructed to prevent
toeholds from being obtained. The triangular opening formed by the riser, tread, and bottom rail at the open side of a stairway shall be constructed so that passage by a 150mm diameter sphere is prevented.

3.22.2 Type B Barrier

Openings in type B barriers shall have maximum dimensions of either:
(a) 200mm horizontally between vertical balusters, or
(b) 300mm vertically (between intermediate rails) with any openings less than 150mm between the deck and first horizontal rail.

3.22.3 Type C Barrier

Any openings in type C barriers shall have a maximum dimension of 500mm vertically (between intermediate rails). There is no maximum dimension between vertical sections. 10
Table 2 Grade Reversal (Tread Length Management)
Ref: Natural Surface Trails by Design, Troy Scott Parker (2004)
Tread Grade
Substrate 0° 1.1° 2.3° 3.4° 4.6° 5.7° 6.8° 8° 9.1° 10.2° 11.3°
stones 65m 49m 37m 27m 20m 15m 11m 7m 5m 2m 2m
Gravelly clay 55m 40m 29m 21m 15m 10m 7m 4m 2.5m 1m

stones 49m 36m 25m 17m 12m 8m 5m 3m 2m 1m

Clay 44m 32m 23m 16m 10m 7m 4m 2m 1m

Loam 41m 27m 17m 11m 7m 4m 2m 1m

Crushed granite or 38m 24m 15m 9m 5m 3m 1m

limestone, with
angular particles 20mm,
125mm thick
Organic soil 34m 12m 7m 4m 2m
21m

Sand 30m 17m 9m 5m 2m 1m

Notes
• Tread length stated is the distance between a tread crest and the adjacent dip.
• These values are designed to minimise tread maintenance and minimise tread shape change through erosion.
• Values reflect high splash erosion (no tree canopy).
• Assumes severe rainfall events of 1-3 times per year. Higher rainfall areas should use shorter tread watershed distances.
• No tread should have a 0° grade – this column reflects tread grades between 0 and 1.1°.
• Compacted pure clay while cohesive even on steep grades when dry, is generally too slippery when wet to be practical.

Guidance Notes
• Grade reversals should be placed at all unbridged water crossings, and at all points where water will flow in heavy rain.
• Grade reversals are also useful for slowing riders down before switchbacks and track junctions.

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Table 3 Grade Factors Influencing Maximum Trail Gradient
Half Rule Gradient should not exceed half the grade of the sideslope – if it does, it is considered fall-line.

Soil Type Some soils will support steeper grades than others – knowing the cohesion and drainage properties of the soil is important.

Rock Solid rock trails will support steeper grades.

Annual Rainfall Very high and very low rainfall areas may need to be designed with gentler grades.

Grade Reversals Frequent grade reversals will allow for slightly steeper grades.

Type of Users Walkers and mountain bikers are generally low impact users. If high impact users share the trail, gentler grades should be considered.

Number of Users High use trails may need gentler grades.

Difficulty Level Grade 4-6 trails with a desired higher difficulty level maybe steeper, but techniques such as frequent grade reversal and tread armouring may be essential to ensure sustainability.

Table 4 Ideal Camber Angles for Berm Style Corners

Speed into Corner 2m turn radius 3m turn radius 4m turn radius 5m turn radius 6m turn radius Key

km/hr degrees Grade 1 <10 degrees maximum

5 11 6 4 3 2 Grade 2 <20 degrees maximum

10 21 15 11 9 7 Grade 3 <40 degrees maximum

15 42 31 24 19 16
Grade 4-6 no restrictions
20 58 46 38 32 28

25 68 59 51 45 39

30 74 67 61 55 50

35 78 73 67 63 58

40 81 77 72 68 65

45 83 79 76 73 69

Notes Guidance Notes

• Human powered bike climbing speeds (on singlet rack) are typically 5- • Select locations for turns where there is room for a reasonable turn
10km/hr radius while minimizing the requirement for excavation and retaining
• eMTB(<300W) climbing speeds(on singletrack) are typically 10-15km/hr walls
• Descending speeds vary but typically speed increases with grade • Trail gradient through the turn should match the overall trail gradient,
• Designers need to make an assessment or trail speed into a corner to as shown in Table 5.
determine berm/camber/radius requirements. 12
Table 5 Vertical Trail Drop for Corners
Average Trail Gradient (degrees) Key

3.5 5 6 10 14 Grade 1

Turn Radius (m) Trail Drop (vertical m) – entry to exit for 180 degree turn, measured at centre of ride line Grade 2

2 0.4 0.5 0.7 1.1 1.5 Grade 3

3 0.6 0.8 1.0 1.6 2.3
Grade 4
4 0.8 1.1 1.3 2.2 3.0
Grade 5
5 1.0 1.4 1.6 2.7 3.8

6 1.2 1.6 2.0 3.3 4.6

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Table 6 Jump Design Guidance (Approach speed, ramp,
angle, jump distance in metres)
This table applies to table top and roller style jumps where the take-off and landing ramps are built on the datum level of the trail. Step-up and step-down style jumps need to be considered separately (see notes)

Jump take off ramp angle (degrees)

Speed (km/hr) 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45
5 0.0 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.2
15 0.3 0.6 0.9 1.1 1.4 1.5 1.7 1.7 1.8
25 0.9 1.7 2.5 3.2 3.8 4.3 4.6 4.8 4.9
35 1.7 3.3 4.8 6.2 7.4 8.3 9.1 9.5 9.6
45 2.8 5.4 8.0 10.2 12.2 13.8 15.0 15.7 15.9
55 4.1 8.1 11.9 15.3 18.2 20.6 22.4 23.4 23.8
65 5.8 11.4 16.6 21.4 25.5 28.8 31.2 32.7 33.2
75 7.7 15.1 22.1 28.4 33.9 38.3 41.6 43.6 44.2

Grade 1 Grade 2 Grade 3 Grade 4 Grade 5 Grade 6

Jump ramp vertical height (belly to lip) None up to 0.5m up to 1.5m up to 2m up to 4m unlimited

Minimum jump ramp length None 3 x vertical height 2.5 x vertical height 2 x vertical height 2 x vertical height 2 x vertical height

Tabletop Jump Length (horizontal distance

None 1-3m 1-6m 1-8m 1-12m unlimited
from jump lip to start of landing ramp)

Tabletop, Roll-able or Manual- Tabletop, Roll-able or Manual-

Types of Features Rollers Rollers, small Tabletops Tabletop, Double, Gap Tabletop, Double, Gap
able Double able Double

Notes
There are two main types of jump ramps – Flat or Planar ramps and Curved or Arched ramps. Step-up style jumps will often require steeper jump ramps to be viable. Up to 5° steeper than the angles indicated in the
• Flat or Planar ramps. The transition between the trail and the ramp should be a large, gentle curve, and the ramp from chart above will usually be sufficient.
the end of the transition to the ramp lip should be flat (planar). The flat part of the ramp should be at least as long as the
Step-down style jumps need to be treated with caution and will generally require much flatter jump ramps (even at a
wheelbase of a mountain bike (approx. 1.4m). Flat jump ramps are safer and more predictable, and while rider input is still
negative angle) to be viable. Careful consideration needs to be given to trail speed and jumping distance relative to landing
needed, the variation of input is not as large or unpredictable as a Curved or Arched ramp. Flat ramp jumps are less
ramps when designing a step-down jump.
‘kicky’, harder to pump or boost and create less variance in jump distance, so are best suited to grade 2-4 trails.
• Curved or Arched ramps. The transition between the trail and the ramp should be a large, gentle curve, and the ramp One-off Technical Trail Features that are a grade above the rest of trail are ok on all grades, as they encourage rider
shape from the end of the transition to the ramp lip should also be curved (arched). This circular or elliptical curve can progression. These "grade-up" features should not be on the main riding line - they should be signposted "gap", "drop" "xxx"
have a radius within a nearly infinite range, however the preferred curve is very specific, and is Clothoid in shape. Curved etc, with an alternative bypass line also signposted where appropriate. The feature sign should be located so that a rider has
jump ramps provide a lot more opportunity for riders to pump or boost, but can tend to be ‘kicky’, so are best suited to enough time to choose to avoid the feature, taking the main line bypass. Faster trails will need the sign further back from the
experienced riders on grade 4/6 trails or dirt jumps. feature.

Jump style needs to be considered for each trail. Jump design should be consistent on a trail to provide continuity for users.
For a double to be rollable (tyres on the ground) or manually at trail pace, it needs to have a maximum height drop in the Jump design requires careful consideration as several important variables will ultimately and directly influence rider safety –
middle between the roller peaks of 0.4m many highly technical resources are available to help with this, Trailism Jump Design being a fine example.

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Table 7 Gradient Comparison/Relationship
Degrees (°) Slope (rise:run) Percent (%)

1 1:57.3 1.7

2 1:28.6 3.5

3 1:19.1 5.2

4 1:14.3 7.0

5 1:11.4 8.8

6 1:9.5 10.5

7 1:8.1 12.3

8 1:7.1 14.1

9 1:6.3 15.9

10 1:5.7 17.5

12 1:4.7 21.3

15 1:3.7 27.0

20 1:2.7 36.0

30 1:1.7 58.8

July 2018 Document - Origin

Authors: Jeff Carter, Jonathan Kennett, Chris Mildon

Contributing Organisations: Southstar Trails; Nga Haerenga NZ Cycle Trail; MTB Trails Trust;
Tasman Trails; Wellington City Council; Department of Conservation (Steven Peters); Trail Fund
NZ; MTB Skills Clinics.

Photography: visualsby.me and Sarah Ford (page 11)

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Figure 1 Trail Cross Section

Figure 2 Gradient Measurement Figure 3 Grade Reversal

(For section of trail)

16
Figure 4 Rolling Grade Dip

Figure 5 Corner Design

(For large radii corners on flat terrain)

17
Figure 6 Rolling Corner Design
(Insloped or Bermed)

Figure 7 Clearances

18
Schedule of Amendments
Based on first edition 2018
Second Edition August 2022
• Title of document changed from 'Guidelines' to 'Specifications'
• NZ Grading colour added
• Amended guidance on potential for a fall from height, and reference to guardrail/barriers information
• Amended heading for Uphill Trails, to Uphill and/or Two-way Trails
• Introduction of User Experience
• Introduction of backslope or cut batter guidance
• Introduction of non-discernible width for G4 and above
• Amended heading: Target Gradient average changed to Average Gradient (end to end max)
• Introduction of 'Exceptions (key component tolerance)' to uphill and descending trails - includes tighter
corners and narrow trail to the existing steeper gradients
• Introduction of guidance for 'only one grade harder' to support above point
• Introduced Average Gradient guidance on how to calculate this
• Expanded heading Maximum Gradient with (sections of trail) for clarity
• Amended Technical Trail Features to be clearer, including a lesser stepped drop height progression
• Amended Tread Obstacles to clarify what they are, and include heights for G4-6
• Amended Trail Surface for commonly available aggregate sizes
• Introduction of eMTB information
• Introduction of aMTB information, aligning with NZ grading system
• Amended Clearance to, to include measurement from top of trail features
• Amended Additional Clearances to include proximity information
• Amended Environmental Considerations to include other contaminants
• Amended Trail Type to include the addition of 'aMTB' where appropriate
• Amended Table l to make it clear the DOC correlation between DOC visitor/user groups and Trail
Grading has been utilised with this information
• Introduction of Fig 1-7 diagrams and drawings for key principles
• Introduction of Table 6 Jump Design Guidance
• Introduction of gradient comparison/relationship table
• Introduction of 'Entry Barriers' information (accessibility)

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