[Talk-us] Reference numbers to use for hiking trail route relations

[stevea]

brad <bradhaack at fastmail.com> wrote
> I think I've seen old usgs topo maps, or perhaps FS maps with trails labeled as pack trails.   Not quite sure what it means, probably nothing anymore.   Perhaps the OSM person just used the info from the old map.

A "pack trail" is suitable for pack animals, such as donkeys or horses for carrying "in" supplies, building materials or hauling "out" garbage, ore waste or the like.  It is more substantial than a "single-track" trail for a bipedal human, but may or may not be suitable for an off-road vehicle like an off-road motorcycle, all-terrain-vehicle / four-runner or other high-clearance, two-axle vehicle.  It is a common phrase seen on maps of the 19th and 20th centuries, but has fallen somewhat out of favor, though is still seen and used.

SteveA