Trails make visitors’ experiences more enjoyable, but if in the wrong place or unmanaged, they can adversely impact preserve habitat.  Too many trails in a small area fragment and damage habitat and disturb wildlife.   Steep trails perpendicular to slopes or in sensitive soils can increase erosion and also damage habitat.   Trails also need to be kept clear of excess and/or hazardous vegetation.

To reduce erosion, water bars may be installed across trails, along with placement of logs or stones along trails, etc.  In rare cases, trails may be re-routed at least temporarily to allow the landscape to heal.