Trails as Strategic European Infrastructure
The maintenance of trails should be given the same level of priority as roads and bicycle paths. Trails are critical public infrastructure that support health, nature, mobility, and regional development across Europe.
Unequal Funding and Political Invisibility
The European Cyclists Federation (ECF) has successfully advocated for increased EU-level funding for cycling infrastructure, resulting in a substantial expansion of cycle paths across Europe. In contrast, trails for other outdoor activities beyond cycling remain largely politically invisible and systematically underfunded.
Responsibility for trail management is fragmented across NGOs, municipalities, protected areas, and volunteer organizations. Despite their widespread use and societal value, there is no strategic EU-level framework addressing trail maintenance, restoration, or long-term resilience.
European Trails Policy Paper
Proven Benefits of Trails
Well-maintained trail networks deliver measurable value across multiple European policy priorities, including:
- Public health and well-being
- Nature conservation and ecosystem restoration
Sustainable and climate-neutral mobility - Tourism and local economies
- Rural and regional development
- Social cohesion and inclusion
Yet these benefits are not reflected in current funding structures or policy recognition.
European Trails Policy Paper
A Joint European Advocacy Effort
Together with leading European outdoor organizations – including ENOS, EUROPARC, ERA, and IMBA Europe – European Trails advocates for:
- The integration of trail management and restoration into existing EU funding instruments
- Additional, targeted funding dedicated to the long-term maintenance and climate adaptation of existing trails
This collective effort aims to secure stable, professional, and future-proof trail infrastructure across Europe.
European Trails Policy Paper
Towards a European Trails Policy
The development of the European Trails Policy Paper – Trails as Strategic European Infrastructure is led by the European Network of Outdoor Sports (ENOS).
The policy paper calls for the formal recognition of trails as essential public infrastructure and outlines concrete, feasible actions for:
- The European Union
- EU Member States
- Regional and local authorities
Its objective is to establish a coherent policy framework that ensures trails are protected, funded, and managed sustainably for current and future generations.