We love watching some of the content that comes out of the The “Life-Sized City” series (available on You tube.) They always find a way of making urban life just a little bit better, whether it’s exploring ways of making transport options what they should be, or regaling the use of bicycles in town.
They regularly visit off-the-beaten-path locations to make new friends in hidden or secluded locales. One element of their vision of living is the concept of a desire path. Often referred to as a desire line in transportation planning and also known by various other names, they all have the same net result.
A desire line is simply an unplanned, small trail created as a consequence of mechanical erosion caused by human or animal traffic. The path usually represents the shortest or the most easily navigated route between an origin and destination, and the width and severity of its surface erosion are often indicators of the traffic level it receives. You’ll know one when you see one.
While funny to laugh at once you know the name, desire lines can contribute to erosion and can incur damage to natural areas, especially if they are not properly managed.
How lazy can you get? In this instance, The granite steps were constructed in 2007 on the slope between Ferry Lane and Tottenham Hale Station entrance.
People then cut across to and from the bus stop – creating a “desire path” (or “desire line”) in the grass. Three years later the desire line was a mud triangle. One thing is for sure . . . now that you’ve seen this “phenomenon”, you won’t be able to un-see it again. Read more here.
What once were vices are now habits. Put on your big person pants (and shoes) and walk in another desire line. First, head to Mountain Warehouse to set yourself straight. They ship online, too. You’ll want to be ready for anything. Mountain Warehouse are the best. Click here to find your gear.