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Published on: November 23, 2019
A new method for planning long-distance trails using wilderness quality mapping and trajectory data: A case study of
Yunmiao Chen1, Yue Cao2, Zhangqian Ye1
1Department of Landscape Architecture, School of Architecture, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China.
Abstract:
Long-distance trails serve as essential infrastructure linking humans and nature. Currently, most trail planning relies on suitability analysis, which assesses areas rather than routes and often results in discontinuous trails. Using the Taihang Mountain National Forest Trail - Beijing Section (TMNFT-BS) as a case study, this study proposes an integrated framework for trail planning. Based on hiking trajectory data, we use landscapes and wilderness continuum map for screening conditions to locate a trail. The resulting TMNFT-BS trail is approximately 179.8 km in length and: (1) follows only existing routes, minimizing ecological impacts and costs; (2) is continuous and accessible; and (3) traverses areas with the highest average wilderness quality while linking diverse landscapes, providing a rewarding hiking experience. This study introduces a novel approach to the longest path problem in general graphs and presents a trail-planning methodology applicable in China and beyond.
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