The contribution of footpaths to the protection and utilization of the natural environment by using the VIKOR method for their ranking

Abstract The numerous benefits, physical and mental, of hiking, trekking, mountain climbing are well documented in literature. preservation thorough maintenance hiking trails can have multiple impacts: apart from the protection natural cultural resources, also make more appealing popular lead to multifaceted development local areas. However, human trampling may be cause soil compaction erosion ultimately trail landscape degradation. For this reason, long distance should better designed minimize potential future problems constantly monitored ensure their viability. In present paper, VIKOR method was applied for ranking located Regional Unit Thessaloniki, Greece, with a view improving technical characteristics future. questionnaire included seven criteria (Start Elevation, Summit Slope, Degree Difficulty, Length, Hiking Time, Starting Point Distance City), which were rated ranked by members mountaineering clubs as importance mountaineers’ routing decisions. proposed rating approach valuable tool evaluating or sustainability existing new region.