SALT Trail 2.0 is a feasibility project that explores how Earth Observation (SatEO) data can be used to monitor environmental impacts of nature-based tourism across large areas. As visitor numbers increase and climate change intensifies pressure on ecosystems, trail networks and recreational landscapes are experiencing growing wear and long-term degradation.

Building on SALT’s previous work in visitor monitoring, the project marks a shift from measuring how many people visit nature to understanding what that use means for the environment. By combining satellite imagery with visitor data, terrain and weather information, SALT is developing a practical digital dashboard for national parks and other recreational area managers, enabling them to monitor trail conditions, detect degradation and identify areas at risk in a structured and scalable way.
The one-year pilot will be conducted in Lofoten, Norway, in collaboration with Lofotrådet. The project has received funding from the European Space Agency (ESA) through its Business Applications and Space Solutions (BASS).
SALT Trail 2.0 aims to support national parks, municipalities and recreational area managers in balancing continued growth in nature-based tourism with the protection of sensitive ecosystems through proactive, evidence-based management.