Ski run, 2100 m, Oberalppass, Switzerland
 

More recent and steadily increasing anthropogenic disturbances come from alpine tourism and leisure activities.
The bulldozing of large areas for ski runs, has probably the most severe impact. In the European Alps about 20,000 ha of subalpine and alpine land have been prepared in this way, sometimes leading to complete destruction of vegetation and soil and alterations of the microclimate.

Hikers can also have a strong impact. Alpine areas are more susceptible to trampling than most other environments. If soil surface is exposed, processes such as frost heave and soil creep can lead to further erosion.
Recovery of disturbed vegetation is very slow. Even a very infrequently used path may be visible for decades.