The big problem here is that in a shade enviroment like woods, no plants will be able to tolerate and recover from a lot of foot traffic. Once the plants die you will have mud paths.

Limestone screening or stone dust paths will look natural, not need frequent top ups and will prevent mud. Mulch or wood chip paths will not need to be replaced yearly, they may need topping up every third year.

I have mulch paths through my woodland garden and a stone dust path through the prairie. Both look natural but the mulched one does need more maintenance.