For trails to be considered “sustainable” they must meet these recreational needs while providing adequate protection to the environment while minimizing trail maintenance.
by Jeffrey Marion, Ph.D., Federal Scientist, U.S. Geological Survey
Trails act as the primary transportation network for roadless portions of protected natural areas. They
encourage the public to get out and enjoy natural settings without harming them. For trails to be considered
“sustainable” they must meet these recreational needs while providing adequate protection to the
environment while minimizing trail maintenance. Poorly designed trails require frequent maintenance and
are often susceptible to excessive erosion, muddiness, and tread widening. Poorly designed trails are also
less enjoyable and less safe to hike due to these impacts and to steep grades.
Published July 2022
Jeff Marion is a Federal Scientist with the US Geological Survey, and is based out of Virginia Tech as an Adjunct Professor. His research specialty is Recreation Ecology, in which he investigates the environmental impacts of visitor use in protected natural areas, primarily national parks. His research has focused on visitor impacts to trails and campsites and the development of sustainable “Best Management Practices.” He was a founding member of the Leave No Trace Board of Directors, chaired the committee that guided development of the Leave No Trace principles and practices, and authored the LNT Center’s official book “Leave No Trace in the Outdoors.”
Contact: [email protected]
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