Governing access to outdoor recreation: Nordic coastal trails under pressure

Coastal outdoor recreation is expanding across the urban–coastal interface in Scandinavia, driven by the growth of coastal cities, strong friluftsliv traditions, and investments in blue–green infrastructure that make shorelines more accessible for everyday nature-based activities. Rising interest in health, well-being, and environmental connection further positions coastal trails as key spaces for recreation and outdoor learning. This study examines the governance of three trails – the North Coast of Zealand (Denmark), Moutmarka (Norway), and Kulla (Sweden) – through qualitative case studies combining policy reviews, field observations, and stakeholder interviews. Framed by the outdoor recreation paradox and analyzed through mosaic governance, the findings reveal shared tensions but divergent responses. Denmark faces erosion and contested access; Norway grapples with privatization and fragmented authority; Sweden uses trust-based coordination and certified trails to manage visitation. Across cases, access equity, multi-level coordination, and civil society engagement are pivotal, underscoring the need for flexible, scalable governance.