Gravelpaden

Gravelpaden is a term that refers to a category of pedestrian pathways primarily composed of gravel or crushed stone material. The concept originated in the mid‑20th century in several European countries, where cost-effective and drainage-friendly surfaces were needed for rural and suburban walking routes. Gravelpaden are typically narrower than conventional paved roads, often accommodating two-way foot traffic and light bicycle usage. Their construction involves compacting layers of gravel or crushed stone, sometimes topped with a protective layer such as geotextile fabric to improve stability and reduce erosion.

The name derives from the German words "gravel" (meaning a mix of stone and sand) and "Paden" (plural of walked), suggesting both the material and its function as a walking path. Gravelpaden are often found alongside hiking trails, in parks, and as part of city perimeter routes that provide scenic, low‑maintenance paths for recreation. While they may lack the smoothness of asphalt or concrete, they offer ecological benefits including better stormwater infiltration and lower heat island effects. Authorities that oversee municipal green infrastructure sometimes designate specific gravelpaden sections as multi‑use corridors, promoting walking, cycling, and ecological connectivity.