Desire paths Desire paths can be paths created as a consequence of erosion caused by human or animal foot-fall or traffic. The paths usually represent the shortest or most easily navigated routes between origins and destinations. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Desire_path
In the manmade landscape, a desire path is humorous. It indicates the failure of a landscape architect. It’s harmless erosion of grass.
In a natural setting, the trail itself is an impact on the landscape, and cutting of switch backs can really do a lot of damage when the water has its way. Trails are constructed with drainage considerations, but shortcuts are not.
Goats and deer make the same paths in the wild. Streams gotta start somewhere.