Knowing the different types of trails can make it easier to plan a trip, read a trail map, and navigate while on the trail. Below are common types of hiking trails you will find exploring parks, forests, and recreation areas.
Structure
Out-and-Back
Also known as a line, out-and-back trails are the most common and simplest routes. Line trails connect two points, a trailhead and destination, then return on the same path. Destinations can be overlooks, waterfalls, mountain summits, lookout towers, historic sites, lakes, rivers, and more!
Loop
Loop trails follow a circle or oval shape, with one trailhead. Unlike out-and-back trails, hikers on loops do not return on the same path, creating more options for points of interest.
Lollipop
Lollipop routes are a mix of line and loop – Hikers start on an out-and-back from the trailhead, make the turn along a loop, and retrace their steps on the out-and-back.
Horseshoe
Horseshoes have two separate trailheads, and the path expands out in the shape of a horseshoe.
Point-to-Point
These trails start and end at different locations. Point-to-point routes are often part of multi-day or backpacking trips. Usually, some form of transportation is needed to return to the starting point.
Trail System
A system offers a combination of trail types to meet diverse recreational needs. Trail systems often have line trails, connectors, spurs, and easy loop trails. Typically, there are also multiple trailheads.
Specialized
Access
Access trails provide access to a hiking trail from a parking area, road, town, or separate trail system. Feeder trails (a type of access trail) connect neighborhoods, visitor centers, campgrounds, and other facilities to a main trail.
Connector
Connecting trails link two or more major trails. These can shorten or lengthen a hike within a trail system.
Spur/Side
These trails diverge from main or secondary trails to points of interest nearby.
Interpretive/Nature
Interpretive trails are usually on the shorter side with interpretive signs or numbers (corresponding to a pamphlet) describing interesting plants, animals, or geological features.
Rail
Also called rails-to-trails, these hiking trails are converted from inactive or abandoned railroad lines.
User
Single-Use
Single-use paths are dedicated to one user type. Footpaths are for people on foot (hikers, runners, backpackers). Bikeways are mainly used for bicyclists. Equestrian or bridle paths are for horse riders.
Multi-Use/Shared-Use
Multi-use routes allow more than one type of user at a time – for example a path that has hikers, bicyclists, and horseback riders.
Location
Frontcountry
Frontcountry trails are well marked, maintained paths that are usually easily accessible.
Backcountry
Backcountry trails are primitive paths in areas without maintained roads and limited, if any, amenities.