Assigned Session: FS 3.100: The impact of climate change on mountaineering and how it affects hiking trails, mountain huts and rock climbing areas and solutions for adaptions
Climate-resilient trails: Adapting lowland and low-mountain routes to a changing environment
Abstract ID: 3.8118 | Pending | Talk/Oral | TBA | TBA
Steen Kobberø-Hansen (0)
Steen Kobberø-Hansen ((0) European Hiking Federation, Prusíkova 2577, 155 00, Praha, CZ, CZ)
(0) European Hiking Federation, Prusíkova 2577, 155 00, Praha, CZ, CZ
Climate change is reshaping outdoor recreation, not only in alpine regions but also in lowland and low-mountain landscapes, where extreme weather, soil erosion, and changing biodiversity threaten hiking trails and infrastructure. While much attention is given to high-mountain mountaineering, the adaptation of forest paths, riverside trails, coastal routes, and rolling terrain networks remains underexplored. This session will present ERA’s work on building climate-resilient trails in these environments through best practices, digital trail management, and cross-border cooperation. It will showcase trail adaptation strategies in response to increased flooding, prolonged droughts, storm damage, and shifting land use patterns. The presentation will also introduce ERA’s efforts in proactive trail assessments and open-source digital trail mapping, helping trail managers plan for climate resilience before issues become critical. Attendees will gain insight into practical solutions for mitigating climate risks in diverse landscapes, including the use of climate-resistant materials, sustainable water management, and smart vegetation planning. The session will highlight the need for stronger collaboration across borders to create a European-wide approach to climate-resilient trail networks. Key takeaways: • Understand how climate change affects lowland and low-mountain trails differently from high-altitude routes. • Learn best practice solutions for trail adaptation, including materials, rerouting, and water management. • Discover ERA’s initiatives in proactive trail assessments and digital mapping for climate resilience. • Explore opportunities for cross-border collaboration in sustainable trail management.
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