Risk Taking for the Camera
Natural landscapes contain inherent hazards such as cliffs, steep terrain, water crossings, and uneven or slippery surfaces. Trail management does not aim to remove all risk from these environments. Instead, the focus is on identifying hazards, communicating risks, and implementing appropriate management measures to support safe visitor experiences.
In recent years, social media has influenced how visitors interact with natural places. Photographs shared online—particularly dramatic images taken near cliff edges or exposed viewpoints—can encourage others to replicate these images, sometimes placing themselves in dangerous positions.
Land managers must recognise that the objective is not to eliminate all risk, but to ensure visitors are informed and that foreseeable hazards are appropriately managed.
Risk management in outdoor recreation typically follows a structured framework:
- Identify hazards
- Assess the likelihood and consequences of risk
- Implement control measures
- Monitor and review conditions
This hazard-based approach is widely used in trail planning and outdoor recreation management.
Managing Risk While Protecting the Experience
Contemporary trail planning adopts an “informed risk” approach. Rather than removing natural hazards, managers focus on helping visitors understand the risks they may encounter.
Best-practice management measures may include:
- Appropriate trail alignment and design
- Trail difficulty grading
- Warning and hazard signage
- Strategic barriers in high-risk areas
- Ongoing monitoring and maintenance
These measures help reduce risk while maintaining the authentic experience of visiting natural landscapes.
The Role of Social Media
Social media can unintentionally encourage risky behaviour. Visitors may attempt to recreate popular images taken from exposed locations, sometimes leaving designated trails, climbing barriers, or positioning themselves dangerously close to cliff edges.
Tragically, a number of fatal incidents globally have been linked to this behaviour. These events highlight the importance of:
- Clear hazard communication
- Targeted visitor education
- Appropriate infrastructure where necessary
However, even with these measures in place, risk cannot be completely eliminated in natural environments.
Need Guidance?
If you are responsible for planning or managing a trail network and require expert guidance on risk management, visitor safety, or trail planning, Tredwell can assist.
