Switchback

A switchback is a zigzag section of trail that changes direction repeatedly in sharp turns to traverse steep terrain. This trail design technique allows hikers to ascend or descend steep slopes more gradually and safely by reducing the trail's grade through a series of back-and-forth turns. Switchbacks help prevent erosion, make challenging terrain more accessible to hikers of varying abilities, and reduce the physical strain of climbing steep inclines by spreading the elevation gain over a longer distance.