Path and road in tarot
A path is a life in miniature, and the road or way is an image shared by many traditions. In Smith's deck the most important paths lead into the distance: from the pool of the Moon between two towers to the hills, and from the stream of Temperance up to a crown of light on the horizon. Figures in the minor cards walk away down roads or towards distant towns. In readings a path shows that the situation leads somewhere. Ask where it starts, whether it is clear, and who is walking it.
Cards that show path and road
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Temperance
Temperance: The path to the mountains
A narrow path winds from the edge of the pool across green hills towards distant blue peaks and a rayed light. Waite says a crown can be seen vaguely in it. The path suggests that patience leads somewhere: a long road with a destination.
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The Moon
The Moon: The winding path
A pale path rises from the edge of the pool, between the dog and the wolf, and curls away towards the hills. Waite called it 'the issue into the unknown'. It is narrow and uneven but continuous: there is a way through.
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Five of Cups
Five of Cups: The bridge
A pale stone bridge with arches crosses the river on the right. It offers a way across: towards home, recovery or the next stage, available whenever the figure turns to it.
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Ace of Pentacles
Ace of Pentacles: The path
A yellow path leads from the foreground through the arch. It suggests that the coin is the start of a road, not the end of one: what is given still has to be walked with.