Spacing park benches along a walking trail is an art that balances practicality, accessibility, and the user's experience. The primary goal is to encourage rest and enjoyment without disrupting the natural flow of the path. A key rule is to place the first bench relatively close to the trailhead, within 200-400 feet. This caters to those who need an early pause and signals that rest stops are available. After that, spacing should be informed by the trail's difficulty and user demographics. For a gentle, accessible trail, aim for benches every 600 to 800 feet, or roughly every 3-5 minutes of walking for a leisurely pace. On more strenuous routes, consider reducing this interval.
Always leverage natural "reward points." Place benches at scenic overlooks, after a steep incline, near water features, or at trail junctions. These spots offer a natural incentive to stop. Furthermore, ensure benches are positioned on stable, level ground, set back slightly from the main path for privacy and safety, and oriented toward the best views. Incorporate benches at varying distances to accommodate different fitness levels, and always include accessible seating compliant with local regulations at key locations. Ultimately, thoughtful spacing creates an inclusive trail that invites everyone to pause, reflect, and connect with the outdoors at their own comfort.