The altitude is usually very low when it comes to the selection and (re)designation of existing trails for the new mountain bike trail network. There is a fight for every meter of trail.

Because in many cantons the area is so sprawling or economically tightly organized, interest groups fight over the trail crumbs that are left in what we call "nature." The pressure is increasing. But these islands are not the only space available to us. I think this is where the flight altitude comes into play. We need to adjust it and set it higher. Because then we will see what is there en masse: built-up areas. Roads. So what would happen if we converted roads into trails? Could this be a way to reduce the pressure on natural areas and make cities even greener?

Since the Enlightenment at the latest, we have been used to thinking in a reductionist way. On the one hand, the need for workers and goods to move quickly (road network), and on the other hand, fun as a pastime (playgrounds, soccer fields, trail centers, pump tracks, etc.). Our physical space is strictly divided according to its respective functions - the dichotomy of "everyday and leisure path network" in the new bicycle path law underlines these supposed opposites once again. But what if we no longer saw our commute to work and school or for running errands as a necessary evil, but as playful exercise time in the fresh air? If it were not about distinguishing between "mountain bikers vs. hikers," but resolved the issue in the question: How can we best get our citizens moving?

In reference to the "Cool Roofs" that climate researchers at Arizona State University are researching, I imagine green where there was previously grey. Trees and bushes now stand across the width of what used to be a road. Endlessly flowing trails, northshores and rock gardens wind through them with little gradient, like in Czech trail centers. Where cargo bikes or rickshaws are used, the trails are wider and gentler. We would thus solve many of the challenges of our time - 80% of all children and young people do not exercise enough according to the WHO - people are becoming isolated - concrete and asphalt are becoming heat islands - the last mile - with one stone.

I firmly believe in this utopia. The etymology of the term can refer to a fictitious, unrealizable place or – as a play on words – to a happy place. Which term ultimately comes into play is decided by the altitude from which we view future challenges.