Trail and Interpretive Signage Design for Valles Caldera National Preserve: Day Use Areas of La Jara and the Cabin District

Abstract

This project sets out to provide a trail layout and interpretive signage system for Valles Caldera National Preserve. The preserve has recently come under the management of the National Parks System and needs to make upgrades to the visitor amenities. There is a network of remnant logging roads, however no circulation system. Management wold like to utilize these roads as a foundation for a trail system. The preserve has little in the way of signage, interpretation programs or physical visitor amenities such as picnic areas and parking. Theft of artifacts is a major concern for the preserve as it is difficult to monitor visitor behavior and warnings are not posted. As a master’s practicum this project incorporates research based design practices to develop trail layout and interpretive signage program for the Day Use areas of the Cabin District and La Jara.