Greenways often follow natural or existing land or water features such as ridgelines, stream valleys, rivers, canals, utility corridors, abandoned rail lines and others. Some greenways are designed for people to use for recreation and non-motorized transportation, while others are designed for wildlife, biodiversity, and scenic beauty. Greenways may be publicly or privately-owned.
Linkages vary depending on the landscape and community preferences.
Greenway benefits are many and varied, including economic, transportation, environmental, health and recreational benefits. Provide for hiking, strolling, biking, picnicking, fishing, and other recreational activities. Provide important open space resources. Provide refuge and safe migration routes for wildlife. Provide alternative transportation routes by providing bicycle and pedestrian facilities.