Green Flag Trails – The Global Standard for Trail Assessment & Certification
Green Flag Trails (GFT) is the world’s leading system for evaluating and certifying the responsible and sustainable management of trails. Using a standardized assessment method, all relevant criteria for trail quality, environmental responsibility, safety, and visitor experience are recorded and professionally evaluated.
Trail managers can use GFT for self-assessment, continuous improvement, and official certification by accredited auditors.
Green Flag Trails Certification
Vision
Great trails all over the world.
Green Flag Trails Certification
Mission
We establish the worldwide standard for the evaluation of the responsible management of trails and empower trail managers to improve and promote them.
GFT 2.0 Relaunch 2025
The GFT assessment system was developed by the World Trails Network (WTN) for all types of trails, regardless of the activity. Initially focused solely on sustainability topics, it has since been expanded to include criteria from all existing trail assessment systems worldwide, with a strong focus on user experience. This makes GFT the world’s leading and most comprehensive trail assessment system.
Make your trail visible through the WTN and its international partner network:
Green Flag Trails Certification
GFT Certification – Key Criteria
GFT certification evaluates trails across five areas:
- Trail Management
- Trail Design and Features
- Information & Safety
- Environmental Responsibility
- Heritage & Community Impact
Green Flag Trails Certification
Who Benefits from GFT?
- Trail managers and maintenance teams
- Regional trail authorities and park agencies
- Sustainable tourism bodies and trail organizations
- Communities
Green Flag Trails Certification
Global Trail Recognition Process
GFT certification follows a clear two step process:
1: Self-Assessment
Trail organizations evaluate their trail using the GFT criteria
2: Audit-Based GFT certification
Accredited third party assessors perform an independent evaluation
Get your score and find an accredited accessor:
Green Flag Trails Certification
Accredited GFT Assessors
Become an accredited assessor, join the global network and evaluate trails worldwide.