When bushwalking on muddy trails, it might feel natural to avoid the mess by stepping off the path and walking around the mud. However, this common instinct can actually do far more harm than good.
The most environmentally responsible choice is to stay on the trail — even if it means getting your boots dirty. That’s what the boots are made for!
Hiking trails are designed to concentrate foot traffic in a narrow corridor to minimise impact on the surrounding environment. When bushwalking step off-trail to avoid mud, they often trample fragile vegetation and compact the soil.
This damages plant life, disrupts animal habitats, and can lead to long-term soil erosion. Over time, repeated detours around muddy patches cause trails to widen unnecessarily, a process known as “trail braiding,” which leads to even more ecological harm.
Muddy sections of trails are usually temporary and manageable. With proper footwear — such as waterproof hiking boots and gaiters—most hikers can easily walk through mud without discomfort. Walking through the mud also helps maintain the trail’s original boundaries, preserving the integrity of the landscape and minimizing human impact.
In addition, by staying on the trail, you help reduce the need for trail maintenance and repairs. Park and forest management teams often spend significant time and resources rehabilitating damaged areas, and every responsible step helps lessen that burden.
So next time you encounter a muddy patch, remember: the dirt on your boots is a small price to pay for protecting the natural world. Stick to the trail—it’s the best way to leave no trace and ensure that others can enjoy the beauty of wild places for years to come.