Hiking Trails Research Articles

Abundance Trends of Immature Stages of Ticks at Different Distances from Hiking Trails from a Natural Park in North-Western Italy.

Hiking trails may act as hotspots at the wildlife-human interface, posing an acarological risk for people and their pets. Ticks that are maintained in the environment by wild animals may quest on people walking along the trails. Assessing the risk of tick bites for people involved in outdoor activities is a further step in mitigating the risk of tick-borne diseases. This work describes the variation of tick abundance along a gradient of distances from hiking trails, where wildlife passage is favored by higher accessibility. Hiking trails with dense vegetation on the sides were sampled for ticks along a 100 m dragging transect, located in a natural park in North-Western Italy. Additional transects were replicated at 1, 2 and 4 m away from the trail on both sides. After morphological identification, descriptive statistics and modeling were applied to determine the abundance patterns across distances. Larvae were most abundant near the trail, peaking at 1 m and dropping sharply at further distances. Nymphs showed a more gradual and consistent decrease at progressing distance from the trail. Few adults were collected, preventing the identification of a clear trend. With higher tick abundance, the immediate vicinity of hiking trails may represent a source of acarological risk for humans and pets.

Scots pine roots (Pinus sylvestris L.) as dendrogeomorphological indicators of soil erosion on a hiking trail in the Brodnica Lakeland, Poland NE

Trampling on hiking trails leads to vegetation degradation, promoting soil erosion. Erosion removes the topsoil, causing lasting changes and exposing tree roots. Yet, little is known about the environmental factors affecting soil erosion rates determined from tree root analysis. This study, exclusively utilizing microscopic preparations, examines tree root anatomical changes on a lowland trail in Brodnica Lakeland. It aims to understand the temporal and spatial variability of soil erosion rates using dendrogeomorphological records of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) roots. Up to 64 % of samples show exposure due to continuous denudation, significantly shaping the trail’s relief. Abrupt exposures and secondary growth occur in only 22 % and 14 %, respectively. The average soil erosion rate, calculated from 76 root exposures at the Bachotek site, is 1.93 ± 0.82 mm/year, ranging from 0.71 to 3.80 mm/year, with recently exposed roots exhibiting the highest average soil erosion values on the hiking trail. 45 % of root samples exhibit above-average erosion rates. Statistical analyses reveal that erosion rates (ER) are influenced by soil compaction (COM), bulk density (BULK), root orientation (ASP), and exposure length (EXP). Higher compaction and bulk density correlate with increased erosion, while roots parallel to the trail experience more erosion. Conversely, greater root exposure length leads to decreased erosion rates. These findings suggest that soil erosion on the hiking trail primarily results from gradual geomorphological processes. Wood anatomical analyses of pine roots confirm the role of trampling in initiating and accelerating these processes, altering the trail’s subsurface soil layers, and indirectly affecting soil erosion dynamics. Scots pine roots prove valuable as indicators of the temporal and spatial variability of soil erosion along the lowland trail.

Economic impact of hiking tourism on the Selo route in Mount Merbabu National Park (TNGMb): An estimation of the multiplier effect analysis

Background: Mount Merbabu is one of the famous natural tourist attractions in Central Java, and it is known for its stunning natural panorama. Climbers who explore Mount Merbabu can enjoy spectacular views of the sunrise, the sea of ​​clouds, and the rows of mountain peaks around it. Tourism activities along the Selo Hiking Trail impact the local community's social and economic aspects, both directly and indirectly. This study aims to identify the social impacts and estimate the economic impact of tourism on the community along the Selo Hiking Trail. Methods: This study uses the Multiplier Effect analysis method to evaluate the economic impact of tourism activities. This method involves measuring several economic indicators, including the Keynesian Income Multiplier, Type I Ratio Income Multiplier, and Type II Ratio Income Multiplier, to determine the effect of tourism activities on the local economy. Findings: The study results indicate that tourism activities along the Selo Hiking Trail have a significant economic impact. The Keynesian Income Multiplier value reaches 0.6, the Type I Ratio Income Multiplier is 3.3, and the Type II Ratio Income Multiplier is 3.5. This indicates that tourism activities positively affect the income of the surrounding community and encourage local economic growth. Conclusion: From the analysis results, it can be concluded that tourism on the Selo Hiking Trail has a positive economic impact through the multiplier effect. However, further research is needed to focus on culture-based tourism or Community-Based Tourism in the surrounding villages to increase the economic benefits for the surrounding community. Novelty /Originality of this article: This study introduces the Multiplier Effect analysis approach in evaluating the economic impact of tourism on Mount Merbabu, providing new insights into the economic contribution of tourism to local communities. These findings also highlight the importance of developing culture-based tourism to expand local communities' economic and social benefits.

Local economic development strategy through hiking tourism: A case study of the selo trail on Mount Merbabu

Background: The existence of the Selo Hiking Trail tourist attraction also provides job opportunities for the local community to work in various business units. Method: Using Multiplier Effect analysis, this study shows that tourism activities along the Selo Trekking Trail significantly impact the livelihoods of the local community. Economically assessed through Multiplier Effect Analysis, the Keynesian Income Multiplier was found to be 0.6, with a Type I Income Multiplier Ratio of 3.3, and a Type II Income Multiplier Ratio of 3.5, highlighting the substantial economic benefits derived from tourism along the Selo Trekking Route. Result: The study indicates that the high leakage rates, particularly in transportation and logistics costs outside the tourist destination, encourage the development of new business units such as convenience stores or minimarkets, as well as gas stations to meet the needs of tourists. Conclusion: To enhance the broader economic impact of tourism, further research and development are needed, especially in the context of culture-based rural tourism or Community-Based Tourism initiatives. This approach aims to promote sustainable economic benefits while preserving cultural heritage and increasing community participation in tourism activities. Novelty/Originality of this study: This study uses Multiplier Effect Analysis to measure the economic impact of nature tourism and provides quantitative evidence of substantial economic benefits to local communities. The study also identifies new business development opportunities to reduce economic leakage, providing a framework for community-based sustainable tourism development.

“Wild” Generosity: The Role of Trail Angels in Shaping Community on America’s Long-Distance Hiking Trails

“Wild” Generosity: The Role of Trail Angels in Shaping Community on America’s Long-Distance Hiking Trails

Hazard mapping in Sembalun-Senaru hiking trail, Mount Rinjani National Park

Hazard mapping in Sembalun-Senaru hiking trail, Mount Rinjani National Park

Morfologi Thalus Lichen di Kawasan Jalur Pendakian Bukit Mongkrang Kecamatan Tawangmangu Kabupaten Karanganyar

Lichen is an association of fungi and algae, morphologically and physiologically unified as a single entity. Lichen is categorized as plants characterized by a thallus-like form. The aim of this research was to investigate the thallus morphology of lichens along the hiking trails of Bukit Mongkrang, Tawangmangu District, Karanganyar Regency, Central Java Province. The research utilized an exploratory method involving exploration of locations to obtain necessary samples. Purposive sampling was employed to select research locations comprising three stations at varying altitudes. Subsequently, lichen morphology samples were identified. The results revealed three types of thalli: Crustose, Foliose, and Fruticose, with Foliose being the most dominant type at 335 individuals, and Crustose the least at 132 individuals. The most dominant surface morphology of lichen thalli was Maculae details in the species Polyblastidium albicans (Pers.) S.Y. Kondr, Lokos & Hur, while the least common surface detail was Cephalodia in the species Lepraria casiella R.C. Harris. Lichen reproductive structures identified included two types: sexual and asexual. Sexual reproductive structures consisted of Apothecia, Perithecia, and Pycnidia, while asexual reproductive structures included Isidia and Soredia. The most dominant sexual reproductive structure found was Apothecia in the species Lecanora glabrata (Ach.) Malme, and the least common was Pycnidia in the species Anaptychia palmulata (Michaux) Vain. Morphological differences among lichen types were influenced by variations in altitude, air temperature, humidity, and light intensity. Lichen was most abundant at elevations ranging from 1,712 to 1,844 meters above sea level.

Fostering Resilient and Sustainable Rural Development through Nature-Based Tourism, Digital Technologies, and Built Heritage Preservation: The Experience of San Giovanni Lipioni, Italy

Situated in the province of Chieti, Italy, San Giovanni Lipioni is a representative case of depopulation, mirroring the challenges numerous rural areas across Europe face. In this regard, the present paper describes the activities of a four-year research project in collaboration with a territorial promotion association and a local action group (LAG) aimed at fostering the sustainable development of the territory, focusing on nature-based tourism, digital-based communication and activation strategies, and the preservation of built heritage. A multidisciplinary approach is employed, delving into three distinct levels, as follows: (i) a comprehensive analysis of the built heritage and the tangible and intangible culture; (ii) the activation of the nature hiking trails between surrounding municipalities; and (iii) an exploration of digital communication strategies for tourism promotion and territorial reactivation.

Study of The Distribution of Amorphophallus beccarii Engl in The Hiking Trail of Mount Singgalang Nature Park

Amorphophallus beccarii is one of the endemic plant of Sumatra, which has the characteristic of compound flowers, and emits a pungent odour that can attract insects such as flies and beetles to pollinate. Amorphophallu beccarii is found growing around the hiking trail of Mount Singgalang Nature Tourism Park, in connection with Mount Singgalang has been used as a Nature Tourism Park, it is feared that it will cause disruption of Amorphophallus beccarii habitat, in addition to the many human activities that carry out climbing activities, its interesting morphological shape is also the reason for the reduced population of Amorphophallus beccarii because it is collected as an ornamental plant. In conservation efforts, research has been carried out on Amorphophallus beccarii Engl Distribution Study in the Mount Singgalang Nature Tourism Park Hiking Trail. This research was conducted in February-March 2024. The research method used was stratified random sampling where sampling was carried out at an altitude of 1000-2000 mdpl along the hiking trail. Data were processed using the morisita index. The results showed that the distribution pattern of Amorphophallus beccarii on the Mount Singgalang hiking trail was clustered.

Factors determining changes in the network of marked hiking trails in the Sudetes

Hiking trails are a basic type of tourist infrastructure, which, on the one hand, make areas available for tourist traffic, and on the other hand, can contribute to the protection of the natural environment (if they are well designed and maintained). Owing to the variety of performed functions, their designation is determined by several factors: natural, technical, economic, social. Networks of trails change constantly. The aim of this article is to determine exactly what factors influence transformations within the hiking trail networks and what is their significance. To this end, three study areas in the Sudetes were analysed: one on the Polish side of the Sudetes–the Table (Stołowe) Mountains, and two on the Czech side–the rock town near the village of Sloup v Čechách and the central part of Zlatohorská vrchovina. An analysis of changes in the shape of the networks over time was carried out, as well as surveys of institutions that were responsible for or influenced these transformations. These areas are characterised by a significant level of changes in the trail network. Among the factors influencing these changes, the tourist attractiveness of the area, the resilience of the environment, the intensity of tourism traffic, the environmental transformations associated with it, the history of tourism development and land ownership changes should be considered the most important. At each stage of forming networks, the key factor should be tourists’ needs, including the desire to escape the urbanised environment. For this reason, trails should avoid roads with artificial (hard) surfaces and heavy automobile traffic.

Fitness tests as predictors of physical exertion on graded hiking trails

Lack of information regarding the level of fitness required to complete a hiking trail may create perceived and real health risks for inexperienced hikers. In this study, the link between current fitness levels of potential hikers and actual exertion on hiking trails is investigated. In particular, we investigated whether simple, pre-hike fitness tests (Step-up and Cooper tests) could be used to predict physical exertion on two graded hiking trails (Trail 1: graded easy; Trail 2: graded moderate). Fifty participants completed the pre-hike fitness tests and the two hiking trails. Correlations between relevant sets of variables were calculated, together with the associated p-value. Analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) models followed by model selection were used to investigate if the exertion levels on the two trails, as characterised by the minimum heart rate (HR), mean HR and maximum HR at the end of the trail, could be predicted by the pre-hike fitness tests. A statistical model was created that predicts the mean HR and maximum HR of hikers undertaking an easy and a moderate hike; the Step-up test best predicted mean and maximum HR on Trial 1, and maximum HR on Trail 2, while the combination of Step-up and Cooper tests best predicted mean HR on Trail 2. Management implicationsPark managers are continuously looking to implement new and novel techniques that will increase customer enjoyment, while simultaneously minimise customer risk. By using an accurate predictive model such as the one proposed, managers can improve users' experiences. Satisfied customers are more likely to return to these facilities and positive reviews may increase facility usage.

Potential Regeneration and Spatial Distribution model of Saurauia pendula Blume in Mount Slamet, Central Java

Saurauia pendula Blume is a species of genus Saurauia and belong to Actinidiaceae family. Saurauia pendula spread over on several highlands or mountains in Java Island. Mount Slamet is the second highest mountain on Java with naturally good vegetations. The existence of several threats such as forest fires, destruction, deforestation and forest degradation has caused the condition of these plant species to begin to require attention. This study aims to determine the population of S. pendula, its potential regeneration and spatial distribution model in Mount Slamet area. The study was conducted on four (north, south, west and east) slopes in 2019-2020. Research on population conditions was carried out by following hiking trails and making new paths around the center of suitable habitat. Coordinate data is taken to make spatial analysis using Maximum Entropy (MaxEnt). The results showed that the number of S. pendula was found on the north, west and south slopes at an altitude of 1010-2024 masl. This species has a significant association with Saurauia microphylla de Vriese., Glochidion obscurum (Roxb. ex Willd.) Blume and Castanopsis argentea. The number of mature plants is 106 individuals, which have important role in the distribution of this plant. Analysis of the spatial distribution model shows that S. pendula is estimated to be widely distributed on the western slopes of Mount Slamet.

Social and cultural impacts of the Selo hiking trail in Mount Merbabu National Park: a case study on community interaction and sustainable tourism development

Background: Mount Merbabu is one of the natural attractions in Central Java that attracts local and foreign tourists with the Selo Trail as the most popular climbing route for tourists. The number of tourist visits on the Selo Hiking Trail has increased significantly every year. Tourism activities on the Selo Hiking Trail have a social and economic impact on the surrounding community, both directly and indirectly. Methods: This study aims to analyze the social and cultural impacts of climbing tourism activities on the Selo Climbing Trail, Mount Merbabu National Park (TNGMb), Central Java. The analysis method used is descriptive qualitative analysis with a Likert scale. Results: The results showed that tourism development in the Selo Hiking Trail had a significant impact on the level of community cooperation, social values, and livelihoods. The level of cooperation between communities increased, which was reflected in the formation of joint businesses and community activities. The social and cultural values of the community have changed, including the style of language and dress. In addition, there has been an increase in the number of livelihood types and community incomes. However, crime and violence around the tourism area are considered low. Findings: This study concludes that hiking tourism activities on the Selo Hiking Trail have a significant positive impact on the social and economy of the local community, while maintaining the sustainability and wisdom of local culture needs to be a concern in sustainable tourism management.

The developmental role of tourism in rural areas

Rural areas in the Republic of Serbia occupy about 85% of the territory, where about 55% of the total population lives, while in the Republic of Srpska rural areas occupy about 95% of the territory and about 83% of its population lives in them. Rural tourism is a common name for various activities and forms of tourism that occur outside cities, ie urban areas and those areas where mass tourism has developed. It is conditioned by the tourist attractions that are located in these rural areas. The importance of rural tourism is reflected, above all, in the very important interaction of agricultural production, traditional agri-food products, presentation of traditions, traditional gastronomy and tourist services, and the use of already existing resources. Considering that the statistics of rural development capacity in Serbia and Republic of Srpska are based on estimates, it is assumed that a significant part of overnight stays, which are realized in spa and mountain areas, can also be treated as realized overnight stays in the field of rural tourist offer. Observing the general state of rural development in the Republic of Serbia and the Republic of Srpska, it can be noticed that there are a number of limiting factors that condition the unenviable position of the rural tourist product on the tourist market. Some of them are as follows: low level of achieved quality of services provided, insufficient knowledge of new approaches to rural economy development in both competitive domestic and foreign tourism markets, lack of adequate institutional framework to ensure the coordinating role of the state and greater involvement of local authorities. in integrated rural development, poorly developed infrastructure, inadequate diversification of activities, dominance of sectoral policies. Respecting the census of agriculture and the statistical definition of agricultural holdings, the importance of a rural tourist household, ie a household located in a rural area and engaged in tourism, or as a more appropriate name for a tourist family farm must be mentioned. In addition to tourism in rural tourist households, in rural areas we encounter many special forms of tourism. Tourism in rural areas equally includes the activities of tourists (multi-day visitors) and excursionists (one-day visitors). Rural tourist households are generally considered to be basic rural tourism. However, for the development of rural tourism, not only rural tourist households are sufficient, but also other facilities on the rural tourist household itself and in the rural area. Other catering infrastructure is also needed: rooms and canopies for serving food, rooms for wine tasting, brandy, fruit and vegetable products, arranged approaches to the rural tourist household and parking lot, arranged tourist attractions (real, tourist available), restaurants, defined wine and brandy roads, marked bicycle and hiking trails, pilgrimage routes, receptive tourist agencies, ie designed and organized rural tourist destinations are needed, with all possible feasible contents of the tourist rural product. The quality of the rural tourist offer is affirmed as an important factor only in the new age, after it has been in the background for a long time, ie in the shadow of quantitative values. For each destination or company, it is important to be competitive in order to successfully sell their products on the market, and enable loyal tourists. In order for the quality to achieve its true level of development, certain specific circumstances should be determined, and that, along with modern technological development, is a very intensified competitive competition, especially pronounced on the global market.

Factors influencing hikers’ litter behavior in national park in China

The implementation of the litter behavior initiative aims to mitigate the generation of litter by hikers within the hiking trails of China’s national park. The present study employed the extended norm activation model (NAM) to examine the determinants of hikers’ intention to engage in litter behavior within the context of Wuyishan national park. This analysis incorporated three supplementary explanatory variables, namely environmental knowledge, connectedness to nature, and pro-environmental behavior in everyday life. Additionally, three control variables were included, namely gender, age, and education. A survey was conducted by researchers at Wuyishan national park, with a sample size of 466 hikers. The data obtained from the survey was analyzed using the statistical technique known as structural equation modeling. The findings indicate that the NAM effectively captured hikers’ litter behavior in national parks. Factors such as hikers’ awareness of consequences, ascription of responsibility, personal norm, environmental knowledge, connectedness to nature, and pro-environmental behavior in everyday life were found to significantly influence hikers’ intention to engage in litter behavior. The influence of age on hikers’ intention was shown to be significant and positive, suggesting that older hikers exhibited a greater willingness to engage in litter behavior compared to younger hikers. In conclusion, the study provided practical recommendations for improving the management of hiker trash and promoting sustainable development inside national parks.

Blockchain-Enabled Maximum Evacuation System Using Hybrid Voting in Zero Trust Hiking Trail and Mountainous Terrain

Blockchain-Enabled Maximum Evacuation System Using Hybrid Voting in Zero Trust Hiking Trail and Mountainous Terrain

Trail degradation caused by mountain biking and hiking: A multi-dimensional analysis

Growing demands for on-trail activities have aroused challenges of how to balance outdoor recreation and protected area conservation. Unfortunately, most previous studies have focused on only one or two degradation features, so inconsistent views (i.e., no consensus on impacts induced by hiking and mountain biking) were obtained. This study investigated a mountain biking trail, a hiking trail, and an unmanaged trail in a Hong Kong country park for 1.5 years. Five dimensions of trail degradation, namely Trail Morphometry, Soil Texture, Soil Compaction, Erosion Feature, and Recovery Feature, were identified by Explanatory Factor Analysis. Significant correlations were found between hiking and all five dimensions, while mountain biking was significantly associated only with Trail Morphometry, Erosion Feature, and Recovery Feature. Trail grade and landform grade significantly affected Trail Morphometry, Soil Texture, and Erosion Feature, but trail slope alignment was a null predictor. Hiking caused more severe trail degradation than mountain biking, even after controlling for topography. These findings supplement the existing literature by providing a comprehensive understanding of the multitude of adverse impacts caused by hiking and mountain biking. This study provides a valuable reference for sustainable trail management in protected areas that receive both hikers and mountain bikers.

Ecotourism Hazard Mapping in Torean Trail, Mount Rinjani National Park, North Lombok District

Mount Rinjani is a mountain located in Mount Rinjani National Park and is popular as a hiking tourist destination. The Torean Trail is one of 6 hiking trails on Mount Rinjani that has potential ecotourism hazards, namely physical hazards, biological hazards, and human activity hazards. The purpose of the study was to identify and assess potential hazards in hiking activities on the Torean trail based on physical, biological and human activity aspects. The type of data collected is data on potential physical, biological and human activity hazards that may pose a risk, the incidence of accidents, and the location where the hazards are found. Data were collected through literature study, field observations, and interviews. There are 3 kinds of hazards found in the Toreab Trail, namely physical hazards, biological hazards, and human hazards. These hazards can threaten tourists when hiking through the Torean Trail.

Pteridophytes Diversity and Distribution Along The Elevational Gradient of Mount Penanggungan's Hiking Trail, East Java, Indonesia

Pteridophytes (ferns) are a fundamental element of tropical rainforests, which provide excellent microhabitats for their development. In addition, the sensitivity of pteridophytes to shifts in microclimate and anthropogenic disturbances makes them excellent environmental bioindicators. The purpose of this study was to determine the diversity and distribution of pteridophytes along the elevational gradient of two well-known hiking trails of Mount Penanggungan, East Java, Indonesia. Using a 10x10 m2 plot and transect line, we examined the composition, species diversity using Shannon-Wiener diversity index (H'), relative abundance, and distribution pattern using Morisita index of dispersion (Id) of ferns along an elevational gradient (700–1500 m above sea level) on the hiking trails of Mount Penanggungan, i.e., Tamiajeng and Kunjorowesi. As many as 14 species from 7 families living in both terrestrial and arboreal types were identified. Species composition along the elevation gradient revealed a pattern of predominating species. The Shannon-Wiener diversity index (H') indicated a moderate level of diversity, where many pteridophytes species are found on the altitude gradient between (700-900 m dpl), and the Morisita index of dispersion (Id) indicated a clustered distribution pattern for most of the species. This pattern of diversity and distribution can be explained by changes in biotic and abiotic factors.

Abnormal gait pattern in downhill hiking is related to muscular deficits of the knee flexors and extensors in active patients with total knee arthroplasty

BackgroundTo assess the in-field walking mechanics during downhill hiking of patients with total knee arthroplasty five to 14 months after surgery and an age-matched healthy control group and relate them to the knee flexor and extensor muscle strength. MethodsParticipants walked on a predetermined hiking trail at a self-selected, comfortable pace wearing an inertial sensor system for recording the whole-body 3D kinematics. Sagittal plane hip, knee, and ankle joint angles were evaluated over the gait cycle at level walking and two different negative slopes. The concentric and eccentric lower extremity muscle strength of the knee flexors and extensors isokinetically at 50 and 120°/s were measured. FindingsLess knee flexion angles during stance have been measured in patients in the operated limb compared to healthy controls in all conditions (level walking, moderate downhill, steep downhill). The differences increased with steepness. Muscle strength was lower in patients for both muscle groups and all measured conditions. The functional hamstrings to quadriceps ratio at 120°/sec correlated with knee angle during level and downhill walking at the moderate slope in patients, showing higher ratios with lower peak knee flexion angles. InterpretationThe study shows that even if rehabilitation has been completed successfully and complication-free, five to 14 months after surgery, the muscular condition was still insufficient to display a normal gait pattern during downhill hiking. The muscle balance between quadriceps and hamstring muscles seems related to the persistence of a stiff knee gait pattern after knee arthroplasty. LoE: III.