Building and maintaining MTB and hiking trails

Trails are a fundamental resource for tourism. Maintaining and developing MTB and hiking trails can make an important contribution to an outdoor destination. The return depends on the project and its management; it is not guaranteed simply by building a path.

Many destinations owe part of their appeal to a network that attracts mountain bikers and hikers. Even a small selection of well-designed MTB trails can give visitors a reason to come. Creating the network and continuing to look after it are both important.

“Build good trails and people will come”

Mountain bikers, hikers and trail runners often choose holidays and weekends around a particular outing. That is why the quality and upkeep of local trails matter.

People travel to the Dolomites, Valtellina, Aosta Valley, Liguria and other destinations because they want to experience particular routes. Word of mouth and shared photographs can spread interest rapidly.

Trail networks at the centre of an outdoor destination

What would the Dolomites be like without their remarkable paths? For many visitors, the trail is the reason for the holiday. Investment in a hiking network is part of a tourism project, especially where mountains offer activities beyond downhill skiing, in summer and winter alike.

Trails that respect and enhance their setting

A path winding across a mountain slope or meadow can be more than useful and enjoyable to ride. If designed thoughtfully, it can also fit the landscape beautifully.

For me, a trail is also a metaphor for life: a defined route through a place, giving direction rather than leaving people to wander at random.

Tools and considerations for construction and maintenance

Building or maintaining a trail requires specific knowledge. Among the issues to consider are:

• water collecting during rain;
• stream crossings and other critical locations;
• erosion;
• repeated bicycle and pedestrian use;
• marshy or waterlogged ground.

Both specialised machines and hand tools are used. Creating a new trail bed and clearing vegetation may involve small dedicated excavators, where the project and permissions allow it.

If you are interested in trail design, construction or maintenance, contact us for information.