Word for a path created between two points that is easier than an official path?

[jclay007]

There is a word that describes a path made by people which is follows the easiest route between two points but where an alternative, longer path exists.

For example; a village green has a tarmac path running around the outside, however traffic through the middle of the green has eroded the grass and made a new, more convenient path.

What is the word I'm searching for?!?!

[Clanad]

Primrose or, perhaps shortcut, (also, path of least resistance, but that's a phrase).

[JMR27]

I can only think of rat run but that's usually applied to motor traffic. I think Clanad's nearest with shortcut

[red-forest.]

The scenic way ? Track ? Trail ?

[ll_billym]

Beeline means the shortest route but I don't think it necessarily means that a new path has been worn in where there was none before.

Shortcut fits the best.