Clay County and Platte County have designed a comprehensive trail system for the Northland. The system includes on-road bicycle facilities and off-road trails for a variety of users. The trail system is intended to respond to broad and diverse community desires for increased opportunities for safe non-motorized travel and recreation.

Residents in both counties have expressed an interest in hiking, biking and equestrian trails in the Northland. A 1995 Clay County study projected a need for at least 165 miles of trails in that county alone. Platte County’s 20-year strategic plan found that residents viewed increased parks and recreation opportunities as one of the county’s biggest priorities. Platte County voters approved a sales tax in August 2000 for trails, parks and stormwater improvements. Through the Clay County Economic Development Commission, a task force drafted a trails concept plan for the Northland in 1998.

Given citizen and business interest, the two counties formed a partnership for the purpose of planning an extensive trails network. The counties hired Bucher, Willis & Ratliff Corporation (BWR) to assist in the design of the trail system. The planning work was financed by federal transportation enhancement funds, as well as contributions made by each county. The plan includes facility recommendations, including priority segments; financing options; suggestions for support organizations; and possible changes in county plans and regulations.

Executive Summary
The Plan Objective
Public Involvement
Citizen Survey
Legal, Institutional and Funding Report
Trail Maintenance
Trail Management
Plan Implementation
Project Priorities and Costing
Design Criteria
Northland Trail Corridor Maps