A switchback is a trail that follows a zig zag pattern so you do not have to go straight up. It is used on sections hiking trails that are steep.
Here are some examples with pictures:
Angels Landing hike at Zion National Park
Kaibab Trail in March at Grand Canyon South Rim
Steep switchbacks called Walters Wiggles ascend the Angels Landing Trail of Zion National Park in Utah
Beacon Rock Trail, Columbia River Gorge, Washington
switchback footpath on the Capri Island in Italy
Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah Queens Garden Navajo Loop steep hike
Switchback Trail Leading Into Santa Elena Canyon in Big Bend National Park
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