Forest Therapy Trails: Development and Application of an Assessment Protocol

What key characteristics of forest sites and trails contribute to enjoyable and healthy immersive nature experiences for visitors? Previous research has helped identify the conceptual structure and criteria important in facilitating successful experiences, but there remains a knowledge gap in translating this information into operational guidelines. To address this gap, the present work used a descriptive inventory approach combining field research with a variety of secondary data to develop a protocol for assessing four site level criteria (beauty, integrity, tranquility, accessibility) and six trail level criteria (ease of travel, attractiveness of layout, natural features, built features, explorable nature, interpretation and stewardship). Through an iterative process, the protocol was refined and applied to selected sites (n = 56) and trails (n = 157) in two study areas in metropolitan Chicago, Illinois, and the rural Northwoods of Wisconsin. Qualitative and quantitative information describes preferred conditions across criteria, while quantitative ratings highlight commonalities and differences between urban and rural sites and trails. Although the principal focus was on foot trails, sub-analyses show how the criteria can apply to bike and paddle trails. With regional adaptations, the protocol has utility for the planning and design of new and management of existing trails for the growing practice of forest therapy and related forms of nature-based recreation.