Schall Woodland Walk

The Schall Woodland Walk at Oglethorpe University is a strategically designed, elevated boardwalk, which provides ADA-compliant access from the campus quad to the student center and adjacent housing. In navigating over 40 feet of natural grade within a native deciduous and pine forest, this 515-foot walkway preserves the woodland’s character with minimal site disturbance through a helical pier structural system. Lord Aeck Sargent’s design approach prioritized ecological integration by employing a curved, pier-based form, limiting the need for grading and supporting forest floor restoration with native plantings like royal fern and wild ginger. At its highest point, the boardwalk reaches an elevation of 11 feet above ground, with structural stability provided by 65 battered helical piers and 188 standard piers. Decking materials include durable Moisture Shield, complemented by welded wire mesh for railing infill. The completed design features three ADA-accessible ramps and a stair set, underscoring an intent to foster both accessibility and a continuous natural experience within the preserved woodland environment.