A systematic hazard-profiling framework for mountain pedestrian trails in multifunctional protected landscapes
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47197/retos.v82.119295Keywords:
Hiking safety, mountain trails, outdoor recreation, risk assessment, risk profilingAbstract
Introduction: Hiking is an accessible form of outdoor recreation, but growing trail use increases exposure to environmental and infrastructure hazards in protected landscapes with overlapping recreational and traditional uses.
Objective: This study developed and applied a systematic framework for profiling hazards on mountain pedestrian trails.
Methodology: A systematic observational cross-sectional assessment covered 14 official short-route trails in the Peneda-Gerês region, northern Portugal. Three independent assessors recorded observable hazards, which an independent expert panel reviewed. Hazards were classified and rated for probability and consequence to obtain a semi-quantitative risk value.
Results: Among 160 hazards, material hazards predominated (84.4%), particularly motorized-vehicle conflicts and signage deficiencies. Geomorphological hazards were less frequent (13.8%) but had higher risk values than material hazards (8.59 vs. 3.91; p < 0.001). Water-related features accounted for all hazards with catastrophic potential. Accumulated risk increased with trail length, elevation gain, and duration; trail configuration showed no significant differences.
Discussion: The findings revealed frequent modifiable operational hazards alongside less frequent natural hazards with greater potential severity.
Conclusions: The framework supports transferable prioritization of inspection, communication, maintenance, and targeted mitigation in protected mountain landscapes.
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