Nature Trails and Mixed Routes - Tourism and Trails: Cultural, Ecological and Management Issues - page 95

(i)

Nature Trails

Type 1

Original nature trail

Original nature track
developed for tourism

Type 2

Start Modified nature trail by activities Finish

Natural tracks as a
consequence of
recreational activity

(ii)

Mixed Routes

Phase 1

Defined natural geographic setting

Heritage/cultural
point/node attractions

Phase 2

Start Cultural & heritage point attractions Finish

Designed track/route

Figure 3.12 Types of nature trails and mixed routes

between ecology and cultural heritage is often blurred. The trails described
in this chapter - bicycle trails, borderland greenways, self-drive scenic
byways and rail-trails, illustrate that in some cases the natural environment
might be a mere backdrop to a more cultural heritage-oriented trail experi-
ence. In other scenarios the two dimensions of nature and culture comple-
ment each other, providing visitors with a more holistic experience.
Conceptually it is possible to redraw Figure 2.1 (especially part (ii)) here by
replacing 'zone of thematic interest' with 'defined natural geographic linear
setting' on which is superimposed 'cultural and heritage point attractions'
rather than 'developed thematic nodes' as is shown in Figure 3.12. The differ-
ence between nature trails and mixed routes is that, for the former, there may
be two clear types, while for the latter, mixed routes evolve where cultural
heritage appeal is as important as the natural setting where they are found.
Chapters 2 and 3 have made perfectly clear that there is a nearly unending
resource base upon which trails have evolved and developed. The next chapter
goes beyond the supply to explore the demand elements of trails and routes.