Hiking is one of the least invasive nature-based tourism activities in protected areas (PAs). When properly managed, it offers minimal environmental impact while enhancing visitor experiences. However, issues such as trampling, overtourism, and habitat degradation can threaten both sustainability and conservation goals. With the increasing popularity of PAs, particularly after the COVID-19 pandemic, assessing trail conditions and visitor impacts has become essential for effective planning and management.

This study proposes an integrated methodology to evaluate hiking trails by combining GPS tracking with analytical tools to assess both trail structure and visitor behaviour. Using Kobotoolbox freeware, an online questionnaire was implemented along the trek, generating a risk assessment matrix. The methodology was tested in Spain and Cape Verde, allowing for a comparative analysis of trail degradation, safety risks, and user interactions with the environment.

The findings highlight the importance of distinguishing between the structural network (trail conditions) and the functional network (visitor usage patterns). The results provide insights for optimising trail planning, ensuring safe visitor experiences, and reducing environmental degradation. From a management perspective, this methodology presents a scalable tool for assessing and improving trail conditions in outdoor recreational sites, supporting sustainable tourism and conservation efforts.