The University of Vermont's Independent Voice Since 1883

The Vermont Cynic
The University of Vermont's Independent Voice Since 1883

The Vermont Cynic
The University of Vermont's Independent Voice Since 1883

The Vermont Cynic
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Winter Desire Paths

Campus desire paths reveal the stories and interconnections of UVM students
Emily Kobus, Co-Photo Editor • February 1, 2024
Emily Kobus
Desire paths are paths created by pedestrians near a designated walkway, but are slightly altered in their direction for convenience.

While traditional sidewalks may tempt the average college student wary of stepping into snow, muddy trails across campus, mimicking the original desire paths, prevail. 

These paths reveal the deep human desire for efficiency in travel and this desire is not hindered by an icy Vermont winter. From the deepest corners of Redstone campus to the vast Central Green, students continue to defy the walkways prescribed to them by the University.

In continuation of the last comprehensive guide of UVM’s desire paths, I spent a day roaming across campus with my camera, boots and a puffer jacket documenting these walkways of resistance.

A narrowing path splitting off toward Grossman School of Business and Innovation Hall
(Emily Kobus)
Various bike trails intertwine across the greens
(Emily Kobus)
A worn and winding walkway by Morrill Hall leading to and from a crosswalk
(Emily Kobus)
Two almost identical paths lead toward the entrance of Central Campus Residence Hall
(Emily Kobus)
A stretch of grass is revealed under the snow on the way to Williams Hall
(Emily Kobus)
A wooded walkway around the corner of Coolidge Hall leading toward a CATS Bus stop
(Emily Kobus)
In the winter overutilized and muddy paths can grow icy over time
(Emily Kobus)
A sunken path leads to the entrance of University Heights North, parallel to the building itself
(Emily Kobus)
Desire paths showcase a subconscious human agreeance on where to step
(Emily Kobus)

 

 

 

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About the Contributor
Emily Kobus
Emily Kobus, Co-Photo Editor
(She/her)  Emily Kobus is a sophomore public communication major, concentrating in community media and journalism and minoring in political science. She began her work at the Cynic as a staff photographer before taking on the role of photo editor. In her free time, Emily enjoys writing, café hopping and exploring the outdoors. Email [email protected] to get in contact with Emily.