A nature trail (sometimes nature walk, educational path, educational trail, or interpretive trail) is a specially developed hiking trail or footpath that runs through the countryside, along which there are marked stations or stops next to points of natural, technological or cultural interest. These may convey information about, for example, flora and fauna, soil science, geology, mining, ecology or cultural history. Longer trails that link more widely spaced natural phenomena or structures together may be referred to as themed trails or paths.
In order to give a clearer explanation of the objects located at each station, interpretive signs or other exhibits are usually erected, in keeping with the purpose of the trail. These may include: information boards, photographs and pictures, maps or plans, display cases and models, slides, sound or multimedia devices, facilities to enable experimentation and so on. The routes are regularly maintained.
