Long-distance trail
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Long-distance trails (or long-distance tracks, paths, footpaths or greenways) are trails or footpaths covering large distances, typically 50 km 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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Types of long-distance trails
Coastal trails
These follow coast lines. A good example is the South West Coast Path in England.
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.
Mountain trails
Two good examples of mountain trails are the Appalachian Trail and the Pacific Crest Trail. The Haute Route, through the Alps of France, Switzerland and Italy, comprises about 170 km of high altitude hiking and usually takes 8-10 days.
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.
Cross-country trails
Among the longest, the Trans-Canada Trail.
- Te Araroa Trail - New Zealand
Cross-continent trails
Among the longest is the European walking route E8.
Rail trails
Rail trails are trails on old railway beds, generally rather short; an example is the Longdendale Trail.
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