Building a path on a slope requires careful planning to ensure it is safe, stable, and easy to walk on. The primary goal is to create a path surface that is level from side to side, regardless of whether the path is going straight up the slope or traversing across it.
Key Principles for Building on a Slope
For easy walking, the path should be level from side to side. This is crucial for stability and comfort, especially on uneven terrain. When the path runs across sloping ground, you must modify the existing landform. For the path to run across sloping ground, recontour the slope to create a level terrace for the pathway. This involves cutting into the uphill side of the slope and potentially building up the downhill side to create a flat base for the path surface.
Strategies for Navigating Steeper Slopes
Steeper slopes present a challenge for simply building a straight path directly up the incline. According to best practices, steeper slopes are best handled either by creating level runs joined with steps, or by zigzagging across the slope's face.
Method 1: Level Runs Joined with Steps
This method involves breaking the ascent into segments.
- Level Runs: Build short, relatively flat sections of path running along contours or gently uphill.
- Steps: Connect these level runs with steps where the slope becomes too steep for a gradual incline.
- Advantages: Provides clear stopping points, manages steep inclines efficiently, and can incorporate landings or resting areas.
- Considerations: Requires building step structures and ensuring proper drainage around steps.
Method 2: Zigzagging Across the Slope's Face
Instead of going straight up, the path traverses the slope in a back-and-forth pattern.
- Switchbacks: The path turns sharply back on itself at intervals, creating a "zigzag" shape.
- Gradual Incline: This method allows for a much gentler overall slope on the path itself, even on a steep hill.
- Terracing: Each leg of the zigzag path must be built on a level terrace cut into the hillside, as described above.
- Advantages: Creates a more leisurely and less strenuous ascent compared to climbing steps; blends more naturally with the landscape in some settings.
- Considerations: Requires a wider area to accommodate the switchbacks; path length is significantly increased.
Ensuring Stability and Walkability
Regardless of the strategy chosen, the fundamental principle of a level side-to-side surface remains essential. Properly recontouring the slope to create a level terrace provides a stable base for your chosen path material (gravel, pavers, natural surface, etc.) and ensures a comfortable walking surface that doesn't feel like you're constantly leaning sideways.
Choosing the right method depends on the steepness of the slope, the available space, desired aesthetic, and planned use of the path.
