The Influence of Forest Trail Usage Behavior and Spatial Characteristics on Forest Trail Satisfaction and Behavioral Intention

Purpose: More and more people are seeking forests to escape the complexities of urban competition and soothe their weary minds by walking along forest trails. This study aimed to provide basic data for providing better opportunities for forest trail users by identifying the spatial characteristics and usage patterns of forest trails, as well as their satisfaction and behavioral intentions. Method: Data for this study were collected from March to April 2025. The self-administered questionnaire was administered by respondents, who were asked to check their responses. A total of 300 questionnaires were collected, but 35 were excluded due to statistical limitations. A total of 265 valid questionnaires were used for analysis. The analysis was conducted using the statistical programs SPSS 28.0 and Amos 28.0, including frequency analysis, factor analysis, correlation analysis, initial probability analysis (IPA), and path analysis. Results: Forest trail spatial characteristics had a positive effect on satisfaction with forest trail use, while forest trail usage behavior had no effect on satisfaction with forest trail use. forest trail usage satisfaction had a positive effect on behavioral intention, while forest trail spatial characteristics had a positive effect on behavioral intention. forest trail usage behavior did not appear to influence behavioral intention. Conclusion: As significant differences were found among forest trail users' usage behavior, spatial characteristics, forest trail satisfaction, and behavioral intentions, it is expected that policy measures can be suggested to meet the expectations of forest trail users in terms of creating future forest trails and operating them appropriately.