Long-distance trail
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Long-distance trails (or long-distance tracks, paths, footpaths or greenways) are trails or footpaths covering large distances, typically 50 kilometers (31 miles) or more, used for rambling (that is, hiking or backpacking). Some long-distance trails are multi-use and are used for cycling or horse riding.
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[edit] Types of long-distance trails
[edit] Bicycle trails
These are used by bicyclists. Some are restricted to use by only non-motorized bikes while others are multi-use recreational (hiking, horseback riding, jogging, rollerblading or walking). Bike trails can range in length from under a mile to hundreds of miles, such as the EuroVelo routes, Australia's Munda Biddi Trail Munda Biddi or Bike Trails in North America.
[edit] Coastal trails
These follow coast lines. A good example is the South West Coast Path in England.
[edit] Coast-to-coast trails
These may be cross-country paths, or may follow roadways, or other ways, and often intersect with many other trails in the process. A good example is the Coast-to-Coast path in northern England or the American Discovery Trail which crosses the continental United States.
[edit] Mountain trails
Two good examples of mountain trails are the Appalachian Trail and the Pacific Crest Trail. The Tour du Mont Blanc, through the Alps of France, Switzerland and Italy, comprises about 170 kilometers (105 miles) of high-altitude hiking and usually takes 8-10 days.
[edit] National Trails
A network of well-maintained and well-waymarked routes across England and Wales. Examples are the Pennine Way and the South West Coast Path.
[edit] Peninsular trails
The Kerry Way in south-west Ireland circumnavigates the highest mountain range in Ireland. Along with the adjoining Dingle Way it is noted for its scenic views of the Atlantic, loughs and mountains.
[edit] Cross-country trails
Among the longest, the Trans-Canada Trail.
- Te Araroa Trail - New Zealand
- Continental Divide Trail - United States
[edit] Cross-continent trails
Among the longest is European walking route E8.
[edit] Rail trails
Rail trails are trails on old railway formations, generally rather short; an example is the Longdendale Trail.
[edit] See also
- Trail
- List of long-distance footpaths
- Walking
- Hiking
- Backpacking
- Long-distance trails in Australia
- Long-distance trails in the Republic of Ireland
- Long-distance footpaths in the United Kingdom
- Long-distance trails in the United States
- GR footpaths (long-distance trails in France, Belgium, the Netherlands and Spain)
- New Zealand tramping tracks
- European long-distance paths
- EuroVelo
