The width of unmanaged footpaths was found to increase with the wetness roughness and steepness of the path surface, but decrease with the roughness of adjacent ground. Walkers took the most convenient route in terms of surface or direction, and this affected the subsequent development of the path. On one new path there was evidence of a continuing expansion on curves, but relatively stable use of straight sections. There was a greater tendency for walkers to leave the path coming downhill. This study has relevance to the liability of vegetation to be trampled, and to the design and maintenance of footpaths.