Quick Answer
To determine if a deer trail is still active, look for signs of recent deer activity, such as fresh tracks, scrapes, and rubs. Check for the number of tracks, as multiple tracks indicate multiple deer have used the trail recently. Observe the condition of the vegetation, as active deer trails tend to have trampled or scraped vegetation.
Identifying Active Deer Trails
When searching for active deer trails, look for tracks that are less than a day old. Deer feet are divided into four toes, with the first two toes pointing forward and the last two toes pointing backward. A fresh deer track will have a clear impression of the toes, and the edges of the track will be sharp and well-defined. Compare the tracks to the surrounding vegetation, as active trails often have trampled or scraped vegetation.
Analyzing Deer Sign
Deer leave behind a variety of signs that can indicate the presence and activity level of deer in an area. Scrapes are a common sign of deer activity, and can be identified by a shallow depression in the ground, often with a scrape or rub mark on a nearby tree. Rubs are another sign of deer activity, and can be identified by the presence of bark or leaves stripped from a tree. Look for multiple scrapes and rubs in a single area, as this can indicate that the deer are still active and frequenting the area.
Evaluating Trail Activity
To determine if a deer trail is still active, evaluate the condition of the trail itself. Look for signs of wear and tear, such as trampled vegetation and compacted soil. Check for the presence of deer sign, such as tracks, scrapes, and rubs, and evaluate the number and quality of these signs. If the trail appears to be well-used and shows signs of recent deer activity, it is likely an active deer trail. If the trail appears to be overgrown and lacks signs of recent deer activity, it may be an inactive trail.
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