Our goal

This project group wants trails in all European countries to be evaluated and described in the same way. We are creating a common basis for the classification and quality of trails that all existing national and regional systems can be related to, and that trail managers can use for self-assessment and certification.

Why this matters

Almost every country uses its own system to rate its trails. A trail marked as easy in one country can be far more demanding than an easy trail across the border. For trail users this is confusing and sometimes dangerous. For trail organizations it makes it hard to compare their work, learn from each other and prove the quality of their trails to funding bodies.

The existing systems have grown over decades and will remain. What is missing is a common reference that connects them.

Why now

More people are travelling to walk, ride and cycle in other countries, and long-distance trails increasingly cross borders. Users expect the same reliable information wherever they go. At the same time, funding bodies are asking trail organizations to show measurable quality. With the Green Flag Trails 2.0 criteria, the first updated assessment training in December 2026 and the start of the digital Green Flag Trails system, the tools for a common European standard are now available.