The canton of Aargau usually flies under the radar when it comes to good trail areas. Yet the Mittelland canton has a lot to offer. And like everywhere else in Switzerland, mountain biking is a popular leisure activity.

The canton now wants to find out more and has launched an online survey. Anyone who has ridden a mountain bike in Aargau at least once can take part. The main topics are the bikers' preferences, i.e. what kind of trails they prefer to ride on or, as the Department of Construction, Transport and Environment puts it: "where, when and how often they ride their bikes in the Aargau forest - be it on a mountain bike, a gravel bike or another type of bike."

In order to reach as many people as possible, bike stores and clubs will be informed, according to the canton of Aargau. In addition, signs with a QR code will be placed at neuralgic locations in the forest, which will lead to the survey.

Bad news for trail bikers

The canton also wants to know whether cyclists comply with the applicable laws and whether they are aware of them at all. Anyone who answers the question about the legal situation immediately receives clarification: the two-meter rule applies in the canton of Aargau. All paths that are narrower may only be used if they are signposted as cycle routes or bike paths. The survey will probably also provide an indication of how many people adhere to this rule.

The results of the survey will be incorporated into the potential analysis, which should be available in fall 2024. This will form the basis for cantonal and communal leisure bike networks, according to the canton's website. Project manager Maurus Landolt explains: "Our aim is to guide people who cycle in the forest on forest roads, forest paths and trails along nature-friendly and attractive routes. In doing so, we will of course take into account the interests of all users of our forests."