Project Description

Fort Ross State Historic Park Cultural Trail Project

The Fort Ross State Historic Park Cultural Trail is a proposed pedestrian interpretive trail route totaling approximately 2.80 miles. The project encompasses the integration of new trail construction (approx. 1.25 mi.), and existing road and trail routes (approx. 1.55 mi.). Together the combined route links many existing park features with areas of interest previously unidentified to the general public.  

Overall design includes interpretation at twenty-three (23) selected points along the way to bring together stories from indigenous Kashia Band of Pomo Indians; Alaska Natives; the Call Ranch Period; and others in the international community once associated with the Russian American Company's Ross Settlement. The project creates an interpretive multimedia experience encouraging park visitors to explore the deep and complex layered cultural landscape of the park.

The Cultural Trail is organized into two parts. Part A features new trail construction (1.25 mi) with some use on existing roads and trails (.39 mi). Part B consists of routes featuring primarily existing roads and trails (1.08 mi) with a limited amount of upgrading poorly defined trail routes (.08 mi). All elements of the project will be compliant with Accessibility Standards.

Part A is primarily new trail construction (1.25 mi) for the proposed Kashia Loop Trail. A key part of this loop will use the existing asphalt road of Old Highway One (.39 mi). The trail will highlight the relationship of land features with Kashia Culture through various interpretive mediums at 13 new stopping points. Other significant historical and contemporary points of interest will be included.

New construction will consist of an aggregate base surfaced trail 4 to 5 feet wide, raised boardwalk (approx. 469 LF) through wetlands, and 3 bridges (16 ft, 12 ft, 28 ft) to cross drainages. Trail alignments in areas of cultural sensitivity are to be constructed (raised) above grade using non-structural rock retaining walls. This non-invasive construction will allow trail placement without excavation. A symbolic barrier (wire rope at 30” above ground) will be used in strategic locations to discourage visitors from leaving the trail.

Part B is an assembly of linked existing roads and trails that tell stories featuring various cultures that make up Fort Ross. This network ties together the Call House, Fort Compound, Alaskan Native Village, Russian Village, Sandy Cove, and the cemetery. Adjacent the Fort, informal trails will be upgraded to define the Alaskan Native Spur Trail (approx. 437 LF).

The stories in this part will be told through various interpretive mediums at 10 stopping points located in the vicinity surrounding the Fort Compound. Five (5) of the stopping points will be an upgrade or revision of existing interpretive displays. Five (5) will be entirely new interpretive points.