The present research evaluated the potential of Jequitibá Hiking Trail for the visitor sensitization and awareness through Environmental Interpretation. Several methodologies were used like biophysical characterization, evaluation of environmental interpretation aspects and Interpretative Points Attractiveness Index (IPAI) of the trail. The Jequitibá Hiking Trail was characterized as light, concerning the level of difficulty, with a short route, with appropriated design for pedestrians, and the impacts of public use were considered insignificant or managed. Through IPAI, it was possible to conclude that it's a highly attractive trail, endowed with several interpretative resources. Despite having consensual points of interpretation, which emphasize ecological and biological contents at the expense of the historical and cultural contents, thematic scripts for interpretation are lacking. Although not reaching all Tilden´s assumptions for Environmental Interpretation, Jequitiba Hiking Trail can be seen with character and potential for interpretation, however, the stressed aspects should be worked in order to fully implement and develop Environmental Interpretation.
Interpretative trails; Conservation Units; Interpretative Points Attractiveness Index; Environmental Interpretation
