ABSTRACT
Most walking in mountain areas takes place on paths or trails. Paths often emerge spontaneously as people and animals move between points in the landscape in activities related to, for example, agriculture, herding, or trade. Some walking paths grow into trails, although the distinction between paths and trails is not easy to draw. Especially since the 19th century, trails for walking have been groomed and increasingly designed to attract and assist walkers, to steer larger numbers of them, minimize degradation, enhance safety and local work tasks, and for a range of other motives (e.g. Timothy and Boyd 2015; Clius et al. 2012; Houston 2012). Some trails are based on historical roads and/or walking practices (cultural, religious, military), some have become famous and their names are widely known. Trails for walking are very common in most parts of the world and the total distance of trails, while unknown, is enormous. Many walking trails are increasingly used also for other purposes, such as running, skiing, snowmobiling, horseback riding, biking, and transportation of goods and people. With their omnipresence, accessibility and multifunctionality, trails engage multiple interests and may be a useful tool to minimize conflicts between different users, while aiming to enhance the experiences and landscape values for all. Trails for walking are thus a phenomenon worthy of serious reflection.
