Why Public Paths Matter More Than Ever - The Benefits of Walking

A gentle reminder that “outside” still exists… and it’s way better than doom-scrolling.

The best things in life are free: shade on a hot day, spotting a dog that looks exactly like its owner, or walking on soft grass or sand in bare feet.

Walking paths belong on that same list as they’re consistently one of the top requests for public spaces. As Clement Lau, DPPD, FAICP, points out: “Walking is one of the most accessible and beneficial forms of physical activity. It does not require a gym membership or expensive equipment, just a safe and inviting place to move.”

The Benefits of Walking

Walking reduces stress, lifts your mood, and reconnects you with the world around you. And here’s a stat worth lacing up for: research shows that just 7,000 to 8,000 steps a day, fewer than the often-touted 10,000, can lower risks of heart disease, diabetes, and early mortality, especially in older adults.

The Future or Walking Paths

Many cities are even gamifying their walking trails by adding digital extras like QR-code scavenger hunts or geolocated games that reward you for exploring or reaching certain locations. It’s the doing-dishes-with-music effect: the walk feels easier, the miles feel shorter, and you keep going because the next digital badge is just around the next bend. The apps keep things interesting by dropping in fun facts about nature, history, and culture as you go.

So, if it’s been a while, take this as your sign: step outside. Five minutes, fifty minutes, with friends, with kids, dogs, or just with your thoughts. The paths are waiting, free, and guaranteed to leave you feeling better than another scroll.

Or, as Clement Lau reminds us: “They invite us to slow down, breathe deeply, move with purpose and connect; with ourselves, with others, and with the places we call home. In uncertain times and tight budgets, walking paths are a smart investment with enduring impact. Sometimes, the most transformative journeys begin with a simple walk in the park.”

Clement Lau, DPPD, FAICP, is a park planner with over 17 years of park planning experience in Los Angeles County. He regularly contributes to NRPA’s Parks & Recreation magazine and Open Space blog.

View Clement Lau’s full article here about the benefits of walking paths: https://www.nrpa.org/blog/the-importance-of-walking-paths

Geo AR Digital Scavenger Hunts

• USA: Scout About encourages families to learn about the local wildlife and plants while collecting digital rewards on a walking trail.

• Australia: Explore the hidden story of water systems in Explore Water or join the interactive sustainability trail Smart Canning.

• New Zealand: Kapene Kākāriki and Magical Mission bring cultural stories and environmental learning into public spaces through engaging QR-code adventures.

• 140+ Cities Worldwide: Magical Park has transformed parks in the USA, New Zealand, Australia, the UK and Germany into digital playgrounds where families play, learn and explore together.

  
  

Discover more projects at: www.geoar.com/our-projects