Understanding Local Perceptions of Management and Values of Long Distance Trails

Abstract

Long distance trails provide immeasurable benefits far beyond a challenging hike. Their corridors and the ecosystems within them give economic, environmental, and social benefits to human and natural communities. Local communities can enjoy economic support and ecosystem services, such as clean water and clean air. Trails may mitigate floods, storms, and drought or provide veterans a chance to ‘walk off the war’ (Small, 2009). Whether it be a rural community utilizing outdoor recreation as an income, or an individual finding peace with life, long distance trails provide something for all of us. Our population will keep growing. Our resources will not. Increased development breeds increased demands for energy, food, and infrastructure, which will continue to threaten the connected greenways that many treasure. Those living in the vicinity of a long distance trail have the most to lose if the protection, land use, or environmental integrity is degraded. Those communities and regional voices also have the most power to advocate for the trails’ protection. It is vital that trailside communities care for, understand, and become partners in the management of these significant trails and to assist in protection and promotion of these national treasures. This research project investigates local perceptions, values, attitudes, and knowledge of selected trailside communities neighboring two national, long distance trails. The paper explores 1) What local trailside communities value about long distance trails, and the negative impacts of those trails on those communities; 2) The communities' knowledge, understanding, and interest in management of the trails; and 3) How the differences in historical context influence the values and attitudes of two national trails in separate countries.