Connecting Europe through hiking and outdoor sports

The E-PATHS project (12 E-PATHS – 1 EUROPE) is an EU-funded initiative under ERASMUS-SPORT-2025, focused on strengthening and promoting the European long-distance hiking trails (E-paths). With 65,000 km of trails across 28 countries, E-paths serve as a bridge between cultures, people, and nature.

Project duration: 2026 – 2028
Project budget: €400,000 (ERASMUS Lump Sum Grant)
Coordinator: European Ramblers Association (ERA)
Partners: 10 organizations from 8 European countries

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Project objectives

Enhancing the visibility of the 12 E-paths at the European, national, and local levels
Developing digital tools – including an interactive GIS-based platform for hikers
Expanding the E-path network in North Macedonia, Albania, and Montenegro
Improving trail infrastructure – marking and equipping 200 km of trails
Creating a sustainable management model for E-paths at all levels
Fostering inclusivity – ensuring E-paths are accessible to people of all abilities
Strengthening European collaboration – launching the E-PATHNER stakeholder network

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Project timeline

April 2026 – Kickoff meeting (North Macedonia)
2026 – 2027 – Research, digital platform development, trail improvements
2027 – 2028 – Awareness campaigns, capacity-building workshops, final toolkit
October 2028 – Final promotional event (Romania)

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ERA’s role in the project

Project coordinator – Ensuring smooth project implementation
Lead partner in visibility & dissemination (WP5) – Managing the digital campaign and website
Promoting E-paths – Organizing hiking events and an awareness campaign
Developing the E-PATHS visibility strategy to ensure long-term impact

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Key deliverables

Interactive digital platform – A central hub for E-paths, GIS mapping, and trail planning
E-volunteer learning platform – Training for trail marking and maintenance
200 km of newly marked & equipped trails in Serbia, Portugal, Montenegro, Albania, and North Macedonia
New routes in 3 countries – Expanding E-paths in North Macedonia, Albania, and Montenegro
Toolkit for sustainable trail management – Best practices for local stakeholders
E-PATHS visibility strategy – Long-term promotion plan

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