Nathan Chapman Memorial Trail
Nathan Chapman Memorial Trail
Pierce County Parks & Recreation
The Nathan Chapman Memorial Trail is a 1.6-mile multi-use trail that serves as a vital connection between the Heritage Recreation Center and South Hill Park, providing the community with access to nearby schools, including Rogers High School and Zeiger Elementary. Along its route, the trail offers opportunities for interpretation and observation of natural and constructed wetlands, as well as diverse forest vegetation. The planning and development process involved sensitive coordination with adjacent property owners to address site-specific concerns and close collaboration with Pierce County permitting authorities. The trail honors Sergeant First Class (SFC) Nathan Chapman, a Green Beret and Puyallup resident who became the first U.S. soldier killed by enemy fire in Afghanistan in 2002.
Pathway Design
The trail alignment was carefully field located to avoid wetland edges and highlight areas of unique vegetation and significant specimen trees. Trail cross-sections were designed with sensitivity to varying soil conditions, with different structural solutions applied based on site characteristics. In areas with well-draining soils, pervious asphalt surfacing was used to allow immediate infiltration and eliminate the need for stormwater infrastructure. Sections with poorer soils were stabilized with ballast to support drainage and maintain trail integrity. Where the trail crossed wetlands, elevated bridges on pinned foundations were utilized to minimize environmental impact. These foundations were installed by hand to prevent disturbance to sensitive wetland areas while providing durable structural support.
Awards
In 2006, the Nathan Chapman Memorial Trail received the WRPA Spotlight Park Award of Merit, an honor recognizing exceptional park design and development that exemplifies excellence in planning, creativity, sustainability, and community impact within the field of landscape architecture.