Grounded in Understanding
The project began with listening through audits, site walks, and conversations with Indigenous stakeholders and the university’s accessibility committee. These insights shaped every recommendation, from the placement of signs to the translation of Indigenous plant names. The resulting strategy was not just about wayfinding but about creating an experience that is inclusive, respectful, and deeply rooted in the knowledge of the land.
Inclusive Access
Navigation along the trail is supported by multiple layers of information. High-contrast graphics and large text improve visibility, while tactile maps at the trailhead, raised lettering, and braille on handrails provide independence for low-vision users. QR codes, both visual and tactile, connect visitors to audio-narrated content online, extending interpretation beyond the physical site. Together, these elements ensure that access to knowledge and orientation is as open and adaptable as the trail itself.
Naturally Inspired
The signage system was designed to blend with the trail’s landscape, using natural tones and materials that recede into the environment. Colours inspired by seasonal change bring a sense of continuity to the journey, marking the rhythm of the land without overwhelming it. Placement was equally thoughtful, always present when needed yet restrained enough to let the forest, slope, and sky remain the true focus.
Stories of the Land
Interpretive panels share Indigenous knowledge of edible and medicinal plants, affirming the trail as both a pathway and a place of learning. Plant names are presented in translation to honour cultural teachings, while digital access ensures these lessons can reach everyone. The trail is not only a route through the landscape, it is a space of connection where the land offers its stories and visitors are invited to listen with respect.
Photography Credit:
Victor Lam
Sasan Moradian
