Best practice in the natural environment
Always stick to marked paths
Marked paths exist for three reasons: to avoid damaging the flora and fauna that live there; to prevent excessive erosion of the terrain because these paths have been agreed upon with the local residents or landowners, and because it is the safest and easiest way to visit them. Respect the signs: they inform you, guide you and indicate the correct access points. Traditional paths are also apart of the material heritage that should be preserved by walking on them.
Problems it can cause
Wildlife becomes more accustomed to people passing by when everyone follows the same paths. When we wander off many different trails or walk off the beating path, we cause unpredictable disturbances for the local animals, leading to increased stress.
People walking off the designated paths also damage the habitat, whether it’s a rocky slope, a meadow or another natural feature- since continuous trampling leads to erosion and harms the plant community.
Old paths represent a legacy of past generations, offering insights into how our ancestors travelled and lived. By walking on these old paths, you contribute to preserving this legacy.
Best practices
Moving along marked paths is one of the fundamental behavioural guidelines for enjoying natural spaces with respect:
- Respect any signage you encounter, whether it’s a sign, a fence or a ribbon; they are there to ensure the conservation of the area.
- Check the official routes of the natural area you are visiting; they will help you enjoy the area comfortably while respecting its natural values.
- Stick to well-marked paths; don’t invent new paths or follow unclear markings.
- Do not put up your own trail markers or milestones. Official paths are signposted and adding your markers you may lead people onto unofficial paths.
Associated resources
Best practices in nature – FEEC
Webpage muntanyes vives – Fundació Kilian Jornet i Paisatges Vius
Video “Following the marked trails” – ADEFFA