Signage serves a variety of purposes at Gateways, from orientation to way-finding to interpretation. These purposes drive the way signage is planned and designed, from the overall look to the types of information that may be provided. This page provides examples of several of the most common types of signage. The examples are drawn from both Gateways and from effective examples at selected National Park Service sites.
Orientation signs are intended to introduce the reader to the Gateway - what it is, what the reader may find at theGateway, how to experience it, any necessary safety information. These signs generally do not provide a true interpretive function. The examples below are primarily focused on orienting visitors to a larger river park, quite comparable to the orientation needs for a water trail. However, many of the orientation principles would pertain to more focused sites as well.
Interpretive signage comes in several forms, but the most commonly recognized is the interpretive "wayside". Wayside signs are really exhibits. They connect the viewer to the landscape, concisely interpreting the resources and themes represented at the very spot the visitor is standing. Waysides are thus very site-specific in content, including both text and graphic elements. The examples shown below are from several Gateways.
This signage generally provides directional information and site identification. They usually provide no other informational or interpretive function. Examples will be added to the page in the future.
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