Which characteristic defines nature trails compared to multi-user trails?

The defining characteristic of nature trails is that they follow the surrounding topography with varied grades. This aspect is crucial because nature trails are typically designed to enhance the natural experience, allowing users to engage with the landscape in a way that embraces the intrinsic features of the environment. They weave through diverse terrains, showcasing natural elements such as hills, valleys, streams, and other geographical features, which provides users with an immersive experience in nature.

In contrast, multi-user trails, which accommodate a broader range of activities and user abilities, often incorporate flatter and more uniform surfaces to ensure accessibility and safety for various types of users, including cyclists, joggers, and walkers. The variability in grade and surface on nature trails is intentional to promote interaction with the natural landscape, making this characteristic particularly defining.