Editing Trail (section)

==Types==
Trails can be located in different settings for various uses. These can include:

=== Segregated ===
Trail segregation, the practice of designating certain trails as having a specific preferred or exclusive use, is increasingly common and diverse.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.citymtb.org/home/user-management-techniques-part-4-segregated-use|work=User Management Techniques|title=Part 4 – Segregated Use|publisher=City MTB|access-date=13 January 2021|archive-date=15 January 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210115023648/http://www.citymtb.org/home/user-management-techniques-part-4-segregated-use|url-status=live}}</ref> For example, [[bike path|bike trails]] are used not only on roads open to motor vehicles but also in trail systems open to other trail users. Some trails are segregated for use by both equestrians and mountain bikes or by equestrians or mountain bikes alone. Designated "wilderness area" trails may be segregated for non-wheeled use permitting backpacking and horses but not permitting mountain bikes and motorized vehicles.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.tahoedailytribune.com/news/bill-seeks-to-remove-bike-ban-in-wilderness-areas/|title=Bill seeks to remove bike ban in wilderness areas|date=18 December 2020|first=Claire|last=McArthur|newspaper=Tahoe Daily Tribune|access-date=14 January 2021|archive-date=15 January 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210115230901/https://www.tahoedailytribune.com/news/bill-seeks-to-remove-bike-ban-in-wilderness-areas/|url-status=live}}</ref>

Often, trail segregation for a particular use is accompanied by prohibitions against that use on other trails within the trail system. Trail segregation may be supported by signage, markings, trail design and construction (especially the selection of tread materials), and by separation between parallel treads. Separation may be achieved by "natural" barriers including distance, ditching, banking, grading, and vegetation, and by "artificial" barriers including fencing, curbing, and walls.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.mbie.govt.nz/assets/new-zealand-cycle-trail-design-guide.pdf|title=New Zealand Cycle Trail Design Guide|publisher=Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment|location=New Zealand|year=2019|access-date=14 January 2021|archive-date=3 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210203210010/https://www.mbie.govt.nz/assets/new-zealand-cycle-trail-design-guide.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref>

==== Bicycle ====
{{main|Bike path}} {{see also|Bikeway|Rail trail|Mountain biking|Single track (mountain biking)}}

Bicycle trails encompass a wide variety of trail types, including shared-use paths used for commuting, off-road [[Cross-country cycling|cross-country]] trails and [[Downhill mountain biking|downhill mountain bike]] trails. 
[[File:Pfaelzerwald Mountainbike Drachenfels 01.jpg|thumb|alt=Photograph of hikers and mountain bikers on top of a flat rock hill overlooking a forest |Hikers and mountain bikers on top of the Drachenfels (Dragon's Rock) in the [[Palatinate Forest]], Germany]]
The number of off-road cycle trails has increased significantly, along with the popularity of [[mountain bikes]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-scotland-49541621|title=New off-road cycle route links England and Scotland|publisher=[[BBC News]]|date=1 September 2019|access-date=14 January 2021|archive-date=3 December 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191203004828/https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-scotland-49541621|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bbc.com/travel/story/20201213-a-new-way-to-travel-across-the-us|first=Stephen|last=Starr|title=A new way to travel across the US|date=14 December 2020|publisher=BBC.com|access-date=14 January 2021|archive-date=9 January 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210109000220/http://www.bbc.com/travel/story/20201213-a-new-way-to-travel-across-the-us|url-status=live}}</ref> Off-road bicycle trails are generally function-specific and most commonly waymarked along their route. They may take the form of single routes or form part of larger complexes, known as trail centers. Off-road trails often incorporate a mix of challenging terrain, [[singletrack]], smooth [[fire trail|fireroads]], and even paved paths. Trails with an easy or moderate technical complexity are generally deemed cross-country trails, while trails difficult even to experienced riders are more often dubbed [[Enduro (mountain biking)|all-mountain]], [[freeride (mountain biking)|freeride]], or downhill. Downhilling is popular at ski resorts like [[Mammoth Mountain Ski Area|Mammoth Mountain]] in California,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.mammothmountain.com/mammoth-bike-park|title=Mammoth Bike Park|publisher=Mammoth Mountain Ski Area|access-date=13 January 2021|archive-date=14 January 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210114221757/https://www.mammothmountain.com/mammoth-bike-park|url-status=live}}</ref> or [[Whistler Blackcomb#Whistler Mountain Bike Park|Whistler Blackcomb]] in British Columbia, where [[ski lifts]] are used to get bikes and riders to the top of the mountain.

[[EuroVelo]] bicycle routes are a network of (currently 17) [[long-distance cycling route]]s criss-crossing Europe in various stages of completion; more than {{convert|90000|km|mi|0|abbr=on}} was in place by 2020.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Categories of EuroVelo Routes |url=https://en.eurovelo.com/faq |url-status=live |access-date=6 February 2021 |website=[[EuroVelo]] |archive-date=26 January 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210126033811/https://en.eurovelo.com/faq }}</ref><!--<ref name="ecf1">{{Cite web |url=http://www.ecf.com/projects/eurovelo-2/ |title=Projects and networks – EuroVelo |publisher=ECF |access-date=10 December 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131121014209/http://www.ecf.com/projects/eurovelo-2/ |archive-date=21 November 2013 |url-status=dead }}</ref> It is envisaged that the network will be substantially complete by 2020 and when finished, the EuroVelo network's total length will exceed {{convert|70000|km|mi|0|abbr=on}}.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.eurovelo.org |title=EuroVelo – the European cycle route network |website=EuroVelo.org website |access-date=9 December 2013}}</ref><ref name="routes1">{{Cite web |url=http://www.eurovelo.org/routes/ |title=Routes |website=EuroVelo |publisher=ECF |access-date=23 January 2012}}</ref> (now out-of-date)---> EuroVelo is a project of the [[European Cyclists' Federation]] (ECF).

EuroVelo routes can be used for [[bicycle touring]] across the continent, and by local people making short journeys. The routes comprise both existing [[National cycling route network|national bike routes]], such as the Dutch [[Dutch National Cycle Routes|LF-Routes]], the German [[German Cycling Network|D-Routes]], and the British [[National Cycle Network]], and existing general-purpose roads, together with new stretches of cycle routes to connect them.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.bikeradar.com/news/article/euros-for-eurovelo-18549 |title=Euros for EuroVelo |last=Richard Peace |date=17 September 2008 |website=bikeradar.com |publisher=[[Future Publishing Ltd]]. |access-date=21 December 2009 |archive-date=25 September 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100925082050/http://www.bikeradar.com/news/article/euros-for-eurovelo-18549 |url-status=live }}</ref>

Off-road cycling can cause [[soil erosion]] and [[habitat destruction]] if not carried out on established trails. This is true when trails are wet, though overall, cycling may not have more of an impact as other trail users.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Bjorkman |first=Alan |title=Off-road Bicycle and Hiking Trail User Interactions: A Report to the Wisconsin Natural Resources Board |date=1996 |publisher=[[Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources]], Bureau of Research |location=Wisconsin}}</ref>

==== Cross-country skiing ====
[[Image:Ski trails.jpg|thumb|alt=Photograph of a groomed, snow-covered cross-country ski trail |Prepared ski trails for [[cross-country skiing]]]]
{{main|Cross-country skiing trail}} 
In cross-country skiing, a trail is also called a track or piste.<ref>{{cite dictionary|entry=piste|dictionary=New Oxford American Dictionary}}</ref> Recreational cross-country skiing is also called touring, especially in Europe. Some skiers stay out for extended periods using [[tents]] and equipment similar to bushwalkers and hikers, whereas others take shorter trips from ski resorts on maintained trails. In some countries, organizations maintain a network of huts for use by cross-country skiers in wintertime. For example, the [[Norwegian Mountain Touring Association]] maintains over 400 huts stretching across hundreds of kilometres of trails hikers use in the summer and skiers use in the winter.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://english.dnt.no|title=The Norwegian Trekking Association|access-date=8 February 2021|archive-date=4 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204101251/https://english.dnt.no/|url-status=live}}</ref>

==== Equestrian ====
{{see also|Bridle path|trail riding}}
[[File:Loantaka Brook Reservation bikeway horse path and stream and reflections.jpg|thumb|left|A combination horse and hiking trail in a suburb of New York City]]

Horse riding and other [[Equestrianism|equestrian]] uses of trails continue to be a popular activity for many trail users.<ref name="BNT">The Bicentennial National Trail, Welcome to One of the World's Great Natural Adventures</ref> Horses can usually negotiate much the same grades as hikers, but not always, although they can more easily clear obstacles in the path such as logs.<ref name="john.chapman.name">{{Cite web|url=http://www.john.chapman.name/bicent.html|title=Bushwalking – Bicentennial National Trail|website=www.john.chapman.name|access-date=6 June 2020|archive-date=3 August 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160803005437/http://www.john.chapman.name/bicent.html|url-status=live}}</ref>

The [[Bicentennial National Trail]] (BNT) in Australia is one of the longest marked multi-use trail in the world, stretching {{convert|5330|km|mi|0|abbr=on}} from [[Cooktown, Queensland]], through [[New South Wales]] to [[Healesville, Victoria]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bicentennialnationaltrail.com.au/discover-the-bnt/#menu_bnt|title=Bicentennial National Trail|access-date=12 January 2021|archive-date=14 January 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210114072752/https://www.bicentennialnationaltrail.com.au/discover-the-bnt/#menu_bnt|url-status=live}}</ref> This trail runs the length of the rugged [[Great Dividing Range]] through [[national park]]s, private property and alongside of [[wilderness area]]s. One of the objectives was to develop a trail that linked up the [[brumby]] tracks,<ref name="BNT" /> [[Muster (livestock)|mustering]] and [[stock route]]s along the Great Dividing Range, thus providing an opportunity to legally ride the routes of [[Stockman (Australia)|stockmen]] and [[drover (Australian)|drover]]s who once travelled these areas with [[packhorse|pack horse]]s. This Trail provides access to some of the wildest, most remote country in the world.<ref name="BNT" /> The Bicentennial National Trail is suitable for self-reliant horse riders, fit walkers and mountain bike riders.<ref name="john.chapman.name" />

Within the United States National Trail Classification System,<ref>{{cite journal|title=National Trail Classification System, FSM 2350, and FSH 2309.18|journal=Federal Register|date=3 July 2006|volume=71|number=127|pages=38021–38052|url=http://www.epa.gov/fedrgstr/EPA-IMPACT/2006/July/Day-03/i5967.htm|access-date=6 March 2008|archive-date=7 August 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090807143609/http://www.epa.gov/fedrgstr/EPA-IMPACT/2006/July/Day-03/i5967.htm|url-status=live}}</ref> equestrian trails include simple day-use bridle paths and others built to accommodate long strings of pack animals on journeys lasting many days.  Trail design parameters for these uses include trail base width and material, trail clear width, trail clear height, access to water suitable for stock (not human) use, and trail routing.

==== Pedestrian ====
{{See also|Footpath|Sidewalk|Trail running}}
[[File:An urban footpath.JPG|thumb|An urban footpath in [[Ipswich]], Suffolk, United Kingdom, which prohibits cycling]]

A footpath is a type of [[thoroughfare]] that is intended for use only by [[pedestrians]] either within an urban area or through the countryside. An urban footpath is usually called an alley or lane and often paved (see also: [[sidewalk]] and [[Sidewalk|pavement]]). Other public [[Right of way (transit)|rights of way]], such as [[bridleways]], [[Byway (United Kingdom)|byways]], towpaths, and [[Green lane (road)|green lanes]] are also used by pedestrians.

In England and Wales, there are rights of way on which pedestrians have a legally protected right to travel. [[National parks]], [[nature preserves]], [[conservation area]]s and other protected [[wilderness]] areas may have trails that are restricted to pedestrians.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.nps.gov/vafo/planyourvisit/hikingtrails.htm |title=Trails |website=nps.gov |access-date=13 June 2015 |archive-date=25 April 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200425190024/https://www.nps.gov/vafo/planyourvisit/hikingtrails.htm |url-status=live }}</ref>

Footpaths can be connected to form a [[long-distance trail]] or way, which can be used by both day hikers and [[Backpacking (wilderness)|backpackers]]. Some trails are over {{convert|1000|mi}} long.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.era-ewv-ferp.org/e-paths/ |title="E Paths: The Best Way to Get to Know Europe", European Ramblers Association |access-date=7 February 2021 |archive-date=26 November 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071126123940/http://www.ramblers.org.uk/info/paths/index.html |url-status=live }}</ref>

In the US and Canada, where [[urban sprawl]] has reached rural communities, developers and local leaders are currently striving to make their communities more conducive to non-motorized transportation through the use of less traditional trails. The [[Robert Wood Johnson Foundation]] in the US has established the [[Active Living by Design]] program to improve the [[Quality of life|livability]] of communities in part through developing trails,<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.humpal.org/program-areas/active-living-primer |title=Active Living By Design – HumPAL |website=humpal.org |access-date=13 June 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150213091625/http://humpal.org/program-areas/active-living-primer |archive-date=13 February 2015 |url-status=dead }}</ref> The [[Upper Valley Trails Alliance]] in [[Vermont]] has done similar work on traditional trails, while the [[Somerville Community Path]] in [[Somerville, Massachusetts]], and related paths, are examples of urban initiatives. In St. John's, Newfoundland, Canada the "Grand Concourse", is an integrated walkway system that has over {{cvt|160|km}} of walkways, which link every major park, river, pond and green space in six municipalities.<ref name=GrandConcourse />

==== Motor ====
[[File:Off road trail.jpg|thumb|left|alt= |An off-road trail leading into a forest.]] [[File:Orv-damage.jpg|thumb|alt= Photograph of deep ruts left by a vehicle that left a posted trail |Damage that occurred when vehicles left the posted trail at Anza-Borrego Desert State Park.]]
{{main|Off-roading}} {{see also|Jeep trail}}

A motorized trail is a trail intended for off-road vehicles, potentially including 4×4 cars, dirt bikes, and all-terrain vehicles (ATV), although trails may restrict the nature of vehicles that are permitted to operate upon them.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Jr..Watts |first1=Clifton E. |last2=Fisher |first2=Cherie LeBlanc |title=Proceedings of the 2009 Northeastern Recreation Research Symposium |url=https://research.fs.usda.gov/treesearch/35609 |website=Gen. Tech. Rep. NRS-P-66. Newtown Square, PA: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Northern Research Station. 276 p. [Online only]. |access-date=14 February 2025 |pages=214-222 |language=en |date=2010}}</ref>

Many motorized trails are maintained on federal land within the United States.<ref>{{Cite web |date=28 December 2015 |title=Motorized Recreational Use |url=https://www.doi.gov/ocl/motorized-recreational-use |access-date=27 December 2023 |website=U.S. Department of the Interior |language=en}}</ref> The [[Recreational Trails Program]] defined as part of the [[Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act]] of 1991 mandates that states must use a minimum of 30 percent of these funds for motorized trail uses.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Appointment of Fiscal Yea (FY) 2008 Recreational Trail Program Funds |url=https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/legsregs/directives/notices/n4510655.cfm |url-status=live |access-date=7 February 2021 |website=[[Federal Highway Administration]] |archive-date=18 October 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201018150314/https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/legsregs/directives/notices/n4510655.cfm }}</ref>

Some members of the US government<ref name="fed">{{Cite web |url=http://www.fs.fed.us/recreation/programs/ohv/ |title=USDA Forest Service – Caring for the land and serving people. |website=fs.fed.us |access-date=13 June 2015 |archive-date=10 June 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190610122834/https://www.fs.fed.us/recreation/programs/ohv/ |url-status=live }}</ref> and environmental organizations, including the [[Sierra Club]] and [[The Wilderness Society (United States)|The Wilderness Society]].<ref name="sierra1">{{Cite web|url=http://www.sierraclub.org/policy/conservation/offroad.asp|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061201153933/http://www.sierraclub.org/policy/conservation/offroad.asp|url-status=dead|title= Sierra Club Conservation Policies Off-Road Use of Motorized Vehicles|archive-date=1 December 2006|access-date=6 June 2020 |website=[[Sierra Club]]}}</ref><ref name="wilderness010">{{Cite web|url=http://www.wilderness.org/OurIssues/ORV/index.cfm?TopLevel=Home|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061214145958/http://www.wilderness.org/OurIssues/ORV/index.cfm?TopLevel=Home|url-status=dead|title=Off-Road Vehicles and Public Lands: A National Problem|archive-date=14 December 2006|access-date=6 June 2020 |website=[[The Wilderness Society (United States)|The Wilderness Society]]}}</ref> have criticized off-road vehicle use on [[public land]]. They have noted several consequences of illegal ORV use such as pollution, trail damage, [[erosion]], [[land degradation]], possible [[extinction|species extinction]],<ref name="CPC">{{Cite web |url=http://centerforplantconservation.org/Collection/CPC_ViewProfile.asp?CPCNum=3407 |title=National Collection of Imperiled Plants – Pholisma sonorae |last=Rice |first=Kathleen C. |publisher=[[Center for Plant Conservation]] |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121104114734/http://www.centerforplantconservation.org/collection/cpc_viewprofile.asp?CPCNum=3407 |archive-date=4 November 2012 |access-date=8 June 2012}}</ref> and habitat destruction<ref name="lvrj">{{Cite web |url=http://www.lvrj.com/news/13702907.html |title=Officials seek to protect desert reptile |website=[[Las Vegas Review-Journal]] |access-date=13 June 2015 |archive-date=7 February 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120207131413/http://www.lvrj.com/news/13702907.html |url-status=live }}</ref> which can leave hiking trails impassable. ORV proponents argue legal use taking place under planned access along with the multiple environmental and trail conservation efforts by ORV groups will mitigate these issues. Groups such as the BlueRibbon Coalition advocate Treadlightly, which is the responsible use of public lands used for off-road activities.
[[Image:Seymour Logging Road.JPG|thumb|right|alt=A photogrpoh of a steep logging road climbing through a forest |A [[British Columbia Ministry of Forests]] [[forest service road]] in steep terrain at the Lower Seymour Conservation Reserve near [[North Vancouver (district municipality)|North Vancouver]], British Columbia, Canada]]
[[Noise pollution]] is also a concern,<ref name="wilderness">{{Cite web |url=http://wilderness.org/content/addressing-ecological-effects-road-vehicles |title={{title case|addressing ecological effects of road vehicles}} |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081128011908/http://wilderness.org/content/addressing-ecological-effects-road-vehicles |archive-date=28 November 2008 |access-date=28 July 2014|website=wilderness.org}}</ref> and several studies conducted by [[Montana State University - Bozeman|Montana State University]], [[California State University]], the [[University of Florida]] and others have cited possible negative behavioral changes in wildlife as the result of some ORV use.<ref name="wildland">{{cite web|url=http://www.wildlandscpr.org/node/258|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101225234104/http://www.wildlandscpr.org/node/258 |archive-date=25 December 2010|title=The Impacts of Off-Road Vehicle Noise on Wildlife|website=Wildlands CPR}}</ref> Several US states such as Washington have laws to reduce noise generated by off-road and non-highway vehicles.<ref>{{cite web|quote=State law requires off-road and other non-highway vehicles to use specified noise-muffling devices (RCW 46.09.120(1) (e) maximum limits and test procedures). State agencies and local governments may adopt regulations governing the operation of non-highway vehicles on property, streets, or highways within their jurisdiction, provided they are not less stringent than state law (RCW 46.09.180 regulation by local political subdivisions|url=http://www.ecy.wa.gov/pubs/0401007.pdf|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120207124440/http://www.ecy.wa.gov/pubs/0401007.pdf |archive-date=7 February 2012|title=Frequently Asked Questions about Noise Pollution – for Local Government|publisher=Washington State Department of Ecology}}</ref>

==== Water ====
[[Water trail]]s, also referred to as blueways or paddling trails, are marked routes on [[navigable waterway]]s such as [[rivers]], [[lakes]], [[canals]] and coastlines for people using small non-motorized [[boats]] such as [[kayaks]], [[canoes]], [[rafts]], or [[rowboats]]. Some trails may be suitable for [[Tubing (recreation)#Water|float tubing]] or developed in concert with motorized use. They include: signs and route markers; maps; facilities for parking, boat ramps or docks, and places to camp and picnic. There are also state programs and other promotion for water trails in the United States.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.americantrails.org/resources/water/ |title=Water and boating trails resources projects promotion |website=americantrails.org |access-date=13 June 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150106015038/http://www.americantrails.org/resources/water/ |archive-date=6 January 2015 |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.americantrails.org/resources/water/National-Water-Trails-overview.html |title=overview of the National Water Trails System |website=americantrails.org |access-date=13 June 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150522000542/http://www.americantrails.org/resources/water/National-Water-Trails-overview.html |archive-date=22 May 2015 |url-status=dead }}</ref> The [[American Canoe Association]] has compiled a database of water trails in the United States.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.americancanoe.org/site/c.lvIZIkNZJuE/b.4343521/k.939D/ACA_Water_Trails.htm |title=The ACA's Water Trails Database website |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100614064431/http://www.americancanoe.org/site/c.lvIZIkNZJuE/b.4343521/k.939D/ACA_Water_Trails.htm |archive-date=14 June 2010 |access-date=11 April 2014}}</ref> The [[National Park Service]] Rivers, Trails, and Conservation Assistance Program has compiled a list of water trail resources, success stories, and statewide contacts for water trails.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.nps.gov/ncrc/portals/rivers/projpg/watertrails.htm |title=National Center For Recreation & Conservation – Rivers |website=nps.gov |access-date=13 June 2015 |archive-date=2 May 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150502193422/http://www.nps.gov/ncrc/portals/rivers/projpg/watertrails.htm |url-status=live }}</ref>

=== Shared-use ===
{{See also|Shared use path|Trail riding}}
[[Image:Taiwan 2009 JinGuaShi Historic Gold Mine Trail Leading to Mining Sites FRD 8756.jpg|thumb|left|alt=Photograph of an abandoned mining trail in Taiwan lined with shrubs and trees |An abandoned mining trail in the [[Jinguashi]] mining area in Taiwan]]Shared use may be achieved by sharing a trail easement, but maintaining segregated and sometimes also separated trail treads within it.  This is common with [[rail trails]]. Shared use may also refer to alternate day arrangements, whereby two uses are segregated by being permitted every other day. This is increasingly common on [[long-distance trails]] shared by equestrians and mountain bike users; these two user communities have similar trail requirements but may experience difficult encounters with each other on the trail.

The [[Trans Canada Trail]] can be used by cyclists, hikers, horseback riders, and walkers, as well as [[cross country skiers|cross-country skiers]], [[snowmobile]]rs and [[snowshoe]]rs in winter.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://tctrail.ca |title=Explore and learn more about the Trans Canada Trail, one of Canada's truly great endeavours |website=tctrail.ca |access-date=13 June 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150623190419/http://tctrail.ca/ |archive-date=23 June 2015 |url-status=dead }}</ref>

In the United States, the [[East Coast Greenway]]{{emdash}}{{convert|3000|mi|km|0|abbr=on}} from Key West to the Canadian border<ref>{{Cite web |title=About the East Coast Greenway |url=https://www.greenway.org/about/the-east-coast-greenway |url-status=live |access-date=7 February 2021 |website=[[East Coast Greenway]] |archive-date=26 January 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210126161056/https://www.greenway.org/about/the-east-coast-greenway }}</ref>{{emdash}} and the 11 September National Memorial Trail, a {{convert|1300|mi|km|0|abbr=on}} triangular loop connecting the three 9/11 memorial sites, are two long-distance multi-use paths for cyclists, runners, walkers, even equestrians.<ref>{{Cite web |title=9/11 Trail |url=https://www.911trail.org/ |url-status=live |access-date=7 February 2021 |website=9/11 Trail |archive-date=26 January 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210126140935/https://www.911trail.org/ }}</ref>

In Belgium [[RAVeL network|RAVeL]], French for ''réseau autonome de voies lentes''<ref>{{Cite web |title=The RAVeL |url=https://ravel.wallonie.be/en/home.html |url-status=live |access-date=7 February 2021 |website=ravel.wallonie.be |archive-date=31 October 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201031180842/https://ravel.wallonie.be/en/home.html }}</ref> (''autonomous network of slow ways''), is a [[Wallonia|Walloon]] initiative aimed at creating a network of route itineraries reserved for pedestrians, cyclists, horse riders and people with reduced mobility. The {{cvt|1,350|km}} network makes use of towpaths on river banks and disused railway or [[vicinal tramway]] lines ( narrow-gauge tramways).<ref>{{Cite web |title='RAVel' Network |url=https://walloniabelgiumtourism.co.uk/en-gb/3/i-love/cycling-holidays/ravel-network |url-status=live |access-date=7 February 2021 |website=Wallonia Belgium Tourism |archive-date=21 October 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201021043139/https://walloniabelgiumtourism.co.uk/en-gb/3/i-love/cycling-holidays/ravel-network }}</ref> Old railway lines have been leased by the Walloon Government for 99 years using [[emphyteutic lease]] contracts.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Le RAVel |url=http://www.sentiers.be/spip.php?article221 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120331131143/http://www.sentiers.be/spip.php?article221 |archive-date=31 March 2012 |access-date=7 February 2021 |website=sentiers.be}}</ref> Where necessary, new paths are created to link parts of the network.

In [[England and Wales]] a bridleway is a trail intended for use by equestrians,<ref>s 329, Highways Act 1980 and s 192, Road Traffic Act 1988.</ref><ref>''A Dictionary of Law Enforcement''. Oxford University Press, 2007.</ref> but walkers also have a [[Right of way (transit)|right of way]], and Section 30 of the [[Countryside Act 1968]], permits the riding of bicycles (but not motor-cycles) on public bridleways, though the act says it "shall not create any obligation to facilitate the use of the bridleway by cyclists". Thus the right to cycle exists even though it may be difficult to exercise on occasion, especially in winter. Cyclists using a bridleway must give way to other users on foot or horseback.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Where can I cycle off-road? |url=https://www.cyclinguk.org/article/cycling-guide/where-can-i-cycle-off-road |url-status=live |access-date=7 February 2021 |website=cyclinguk.org |archive-date=27 October 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201027075258/https://www.cyclinguk.org/article/cycling-guide/where-can-i-cycle-off-road }}</ref>

The [[Seawall (Vancouver)|seawall]] in [[Stanley Park]], [[Vancouver, British Columbia]], Canada is popular for walking, running, cycling, and [[inline skating]]. There are two paths, one for skaters and cyclists and the other for pedestrians. The lane for cyclists and skaters goes one-way in a counterclockwise loop.<ref>Griffin, Kevin; Terri Clark (4 February 2005). "Grand Old Man of the Seawall". Vancouver Sun.</ref>

[[Foreshoreway]] (also [[oceanway]]) is a term used in [[Australian English|Australia]] for a type of [[Greenway (landscape)|greenway]] that provides a public [[Right of way (transit)|right-of-way]] along the edge of the sea open to both walkers and cyclists.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.goldcoast.qld.gov.au/thegoldcoast/foreshoreways-158.html |title="Coastal Pathways", City off the Gold Coast |access-date=7 February 2021 |archive-date=4 February 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204165925/https://www.goldcoast.qld.gov.au/thegoldcoast/foreshoreways-158.html |url-status=live }}</ref>

==== Forest road ====
[[File:Mudway at Kambalakonda Ecopark Visakhapatnam.JPG|thumb|alt=Photograph of a walkway through a forest |Trail in Kambalakonda Ecopark near [[Visakhapatnam]]]]
A [[forest road]] is a type of rudimentary access road, built mainly for the [[forest industry]]. In some cases they are used for [[backcountry]] recreation access.

There is open access to most [[Forestry Commission]] roads and land in Great Britain for walkers, cyclists and horse riders and, since the Countryside Bill of 1968, it has become the largest provider of outdoor recreation in Britain.<ref name="largestOutdoor">{{Cite web |url=http://www.forestry.gov.uk/forestry/INFD-76ZL3L |title=The Forestry Commission |publisher=[[Forestry Commission]] |access-date=9 June 2012 |archive-date=30 October 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131030153556/http://www.forestry.gov.uk/forestry/infd-76zl3l |url-status=live }}</ref> The commission works with associations involved in [[Ramblers|rambling]], cycling, mountain biking and [[horse riding]] to promote the use of its land for recreation. The trails open to the public are not just forest roads. A notable example of the commission's promotion of outdoor activity is the [[7stanes]] project in Scotland, where seven purpose built areas of mountain bike trails have been laid, including facilities for disabled cyclists.<ref name="disabledBikers">{{Cite news |last=Michael Lloyd |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/scotland/4280277.stm |title=Trails open up to disabled bikers |date=19 February 2005 |work=[[BBC News]] |access-date=14 June 2012 |archive-date=8 February 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210208132549/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/scotland/4280277.stm |url-status=live }}</ref>

==== Holloway ====
A Holloway (also hollow way) is a [[Sunken lane|sunken path or lane]], i.e., a road or track that is significantly lower than the land on either side, not formed by the (recent) engineering of a road cutting but possibly of much greater age. Various mechanisms have been proposed for how holloways may have been formed, including erosion by water or traffic; the digging of embankments to assist with the herding of livestock; and the digging of double banks to mark the boundaries of estates. These mechanisms are all possible and could apply in different cases.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Macfarlane, Robert |title=Holloway |date=2013 |publisher=[[Faber and Faber]] |location=London}}</ref>

==== Rail ====
{{See|List of rail trails}}

[[File:Parkland Walk Islington.jpg|thumb|alt= A Photograph of the Parkland Walk rail trail in London |[[Parkland Walk]] rail trail, [[Islington]], London, England]] 
[[Rail trails]] or paths are shared-use paths that take advantage of abandoned railway corridors. They can be used for walking, cycling and horseback riding. They exist throughout the world. RailTrails Australia describes them as:<blockquote>Following the route of the railways, they cut through hills, under roads, over embankments and across gullies and creeks. Apart from being great places to walk, cycle or horse ride, rail trails are linear conservation corridors protecting native plants and animals. They often link remnant vegetation in farming areas and contain valuable flora and fauna habitat. Wineries and other attractions are near many trails as well as B&B's and other great places to stay.<ref>{{Cite web |title=What are rail trails? |url=http://www.railtrails.org.au/what-are-rail-trails/introduction |url-status=live |access-date=February 7, 2021 |website=railtrails.org |archive-date=November 27, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201127023455/https://www.railtrails.org.au/what-are-rail-trails/introduction }}</ref></blockquote>
Most trails have a gravel or dirt surface suitable for walking, mountain bikes and horses. In the USA the {{cvt|42|mi}} [[Cheshire Rail Trail]], in [[New Hampshire]], can be used by hikers, horseback riders, snowmobilers, cross-country skiers, cyclists, and even [[dog sled|dogsledders]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Cheshire Recreational Rail Trail |url=https://www.nhstateparks.org/visit/recreational-rail-trails/cheshire-recreational-rail-trail |url-status=live |access-date=7 February 2021 |website=nhstateparks.org |archive-date=1 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201101011019/https://www.nhstateparks.org/visit/recreational-rail-trails/cheshire-recreational-rail-trail }}</ref>
In Canada, following the abandonment of the [[Prince Edward Island Railway]] in 1989, the government of [[Prince Edward Island]] purchased the right-of-way to the entire railway system. The [[Confederation Trail]] was developed as a tip-to-tip walking/cycling gravel rail trail which doubles as a monitored and groomed snowmobile trail during the winter months, operated by the PEI Snowmobile Association. A considerable part of the [[Trans Canada trail]] is repurposed defunct rail lines donated to provincial governments by the [[Canadian Pacific]] and [[Canadian National]] railways rebuilt as walking trails. Much of the Trans Canada Trail development emulated the successful [[Rails-to-Trails]] initiative in the United States. The Trail is multi-use and depending on the section may allow hikers, bicyclists, horseback riders, cross-country skiers and snowmobilers.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://thegreattrail.ca/ |title="The Great Trail" |access-date=8 February 2021 |archive-date=14 October 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181014003916/https://thegreattrail.ca/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

==== Towpath ====
[[File:Canal swains lock 20040911 121236 2.jpg|left|thumb|alt= Photograph of a dirt towpath beside a canal with a lock with a house in the background |Swain's Lock on the C & O Canal in [[Maryland]], US]]
A [[towpath]] is a road or path on the bank of a river, canal, or other inland waterway. The original purpose of a towpath was to allow a horse, or a team of human pullers, to tow a boat, often a [[barge]]. They can be [[Road surface|paved]] or unpaved and are popular with cyclists and walkers; some are suitable for equestrians. Equestrians have legal access to all towpaths in Scotland, and there is a campaign for similar rights in England and Wales.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Lobbying |url=https://www.bhs.org.uk/our-work/access/lobbying |url-status=live |access-date=7 February 2021 |website=[[British Horse Society]] |archive-date=20 October 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201020022734/https://www.bhs.org.uk/our-work/access/lobbying }}</ref> In snowy winters in the USA they are popular with cross-country skiers and snowmobile users.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Snowmobiling in the Illinois & Michigan Canal |url=https://traveltips.usatoday.com/snowmobiling-illinois-michigan-canal-100389.html |url-status=live |access-date=7 February 2021 |website=[[USA Today]] |archive-date=23 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170823162214/http://traveltips.usatoday.com/snowmobiling-illinois-michigan-canal-100389.html }}</ref>

Most canals were owned by private companies in Britain, and the towpaths were deemed to be private, for the benefit of legitimate users of the canal. The nationalisation of the canal system in 1948 did not result in the towpaths becoming public rights of way, and subsequent legislation, such as the Transport Act of 1968, which defined the government's obligations to the maintenance of the inland waterways for which it was now responsible, did not include any commitment to maintain towpaths for use by anyone.<ref name="ReferenceA">Screen, Andy. "Leisure Facilities on the Towpath". Inland Waterways Association. Retrieved 3 February 2012.</ref> Ten years later [[British Waterways]] started to relax the rule that a permit was required to give access to a towpath, and began to encourage leisure usage by walkers, anglers and in some areas, cyclists.<ref>Cumberlidge, Jane (2009). ''Inland Waterways of Great Britain'' (8th ed.). Imray Laurie Norie and Wilson.[[David & Charles]] {{ISBN|978-1-84623-010-3}} p.37</ref> The [[British Waterways Act 1995]] still did not enshrine any right of public access, although it did encourage recreational access of all kinds to the network,<ref name="ReferenceA" /> although the steady development of the leisure use of the canals and the decline of commercial traffic had resulted in a general acceptance that towpaths are open to everyone, and not just boat users.<ref>Cumberlidge, Jane. p.37.</ref> The concept of free access to towpaths is enshrined in the legislation which transferred responsibility for the English and Welsh canals from British Waterways to the [[Canal & River Trust]] in 2012.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.defra.gov.uk/news/2011/09/12/waterways-charity-2/ |title=Government confirms commitment to create new charity to protect Britain's waterways |publisher=DEFRA |access-date=3 February 2012 |archive-date=12 March 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120312193952/http://www.defra.gov.uk/news/2011/09/12/waterways-charity-2/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

Not all towpaths are suitable for use by cyclists, but where they are, and the canal is owned by British Waterways, a permit is required. There is no charge for a permit, but it acts as an opportunity to inform cyclists about safe and unsafe areas to cycle. Some areas including London are exempt from this policy, but are covered instead by the London Towpath Code of Conduct and cyclists must have a bell, which they ring twice when approaching pedestrians. Parts of some towpaths have been incorporated into the National Cycle Network, and in most cases this has resulted in the surface being improved.<ref>Cumberlidge, p.11.</ref>

In France it is possible to cycle, [[rollerblade]], and hike along the banks of the [[Canal du Midi]]. A paved stretch of {{cvt|50|km}} from [[Toulouse]] to [[Avignonet-Lauragais]] and another {{cvt|12|km}} between [[Béziers]] and [[Portiragnes]] are particularly suited to cycling and rollerblading. It is possible to cycle or walk the entire [[Canal des Deux Mers]] from [[Sète]] to [[Bordeaux]].<ref>Jean-Yves Grégoire, On foot, on bicycle, the Canal du Midi and the lateral canal (in French). Rando-Éditions, {{ISBN|978-2-84182-314-7}}</ref> Other French canals provide walkers "with many excellent routes, as they are always accompanied by a towpath, which makes a pleasant off-road track, and have the added virtues of flatness, shade and an abundance of villages along the way", though walking a canal can be monotonous, so that "a long trip beside a canal is better done by bicycle".<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://walkinginfrance.info/canals/ |title=Canals |last=Keith |website=walkinginfrance.info |access-date=13 June 2015 |archive-date=17 June 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150617180643/http://walkinginfrance.info/canals |url-status=live }}</ref>
[[File:Walnut Creek Urban Trail Austin Texas.jpg|thumb|alt=Photograph of a concrete urban trail running alongside a road|Part of the Northern Walnut Creek Trail, an urban trail in Austin, Texas, United States]]

=== Urban ===
{{See|Greenway (landscape)|Linear park}}

An urban trail is a citywide network of non-motorized, multi-use pathways that are used by bicyclists, walkers and runners for transportation and recreation.<ref>{{Cite web |title=What is an urban trail? |url=https://www.americantrails.org/images/documents/EcosUrbanTrails08.pdf |url-status=live |access-date=7 February 2021 |website=americantrails.org |archive-date=14 October 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191014143423/https://www.americantrails.org/images/documents/EcosUrbanTrails08.pdf }}</ref> Urban trails have a variety of surfaces, and some designated for two-way traffic. 

==== Alley ====
[[File:FanTanAlley.jpg|thumb|alt=Photograph of an alley with a man walking through it|View into Fan Tan Alley, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada]]
Urban pedestrian footpaths are sometimes called [[alleys]] or lanes and in older cities and towns in Europe and are often what is left of a medieval street network or rights-of-way or ancient footpaths. Similar paths also exist in some older North American towns and cities, like [[Charleston, South Carolina]], [[New Castle, Delaware]], and [[Pittsburgh]], Pennsylvania. Such urban trails or footpaths are narrow, usually paved and often between the walls of buildings. This type is usually short and straight, and on steep ground can consist partially or entirely of steps. Some are named. Because of geography [[stairs|steps]] are a common form of footpath in hilly cities and towns. This includes Pittsburgh (see [[Steps of Pittsburgh]]), [[Cincinnati]] (see [[Steps of Cincinnati]]), [[Seattle]],<ref>{{Cite web |title=Seattle Stairway Walks |url=http://www.seattlestairwalks.com/ |url-status=live |access-date=7 February 2021 |website=seattlestairwalks.com |archive-date=1 November 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191101202223/http://www.seattlestairwalks.com/ }}</ref> and San Francisco<ref>{{Cite web |title=Stairways of San Francisco |url=http://www.sisterbetty.org/stairways/ |url-status=live |access-date=7 February 2021 |website=sisterbetty.org |archive-date=26 April 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200426001201/http://www.sisterbetty.org/stairways/ }}</ref> in the United States, as well as Hong Kong,<ref>{{Cite news |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2016-07-15/two-architects-explore-the-microeconomy-of-hong-kong-s-alleyways |title=Linda Poon, "The Roots of Hong Kong's Identity Are in Its Back Alleys",July 15, 2016, Bloomberg.com |website=[[Bloomberg News]] |date=15 July 2016 |access-date=7 February 2021 |archive-date=7 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201107234934/https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2016-07-15/two-architects-explore-the-microeconomy-of-hong-kong-s-alleyways |url-status=live }}</ref> [[Quebec City]], Quebec, Canada,<ref>{{Cite web |title=Quebec: a poor man's Europe |url=http://www.ndsu.edu/pubweb/~rcollins/travel/Quebec.html |url-status=live |access-date=7 February 2021 |website=ndsu.edu |archive-date=7 March 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200307161102/https://www.ndsu.edu/pubweb/~rcollins/travel/Quebec.html }}</ref> and [[Rome]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=5 Interesting Steps to Rome |url=http://italiannotes.com/5-steps-to-rome/ |url-status=live |access-date=7 February 2021 |website=italiannotes.com |date=29 June 2011 |archive-date=15 April 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200415022147/https://italiannotes.com/5-steps-to-rome/ }}</ref> [[Stairway]] trails are found in a number of hilly American cities. This includes the Stairway Trails in [[Bernal Heights, San Francisco, California|Bernal Heights]], East San Francisco.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Stair Maps |url=https://www.communitywalk.com/san_francisco/ca/san_francisco_stairs/map/399832 |url-status=live |access-date=7 February 2021 |website=communitywalk.com |archive-date=12 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201112020146/https://www.communitywalk.com/san_francisco/ca/san_francisco_stairs/map/399832 }}</ref>