Refers to a small, narrow path or lane, often in a natural or residential setting. Can be used literally or figuratively.
I took a walk along the path in the forest.
If you go straight down this lane, you'll come out at the station.
小道 is a neutral term for any narrow path, whereas 裏道 specifically implies a back route away from main streets.
小道 is a narrow, minor path, the natural opposite of 大道's wide main street.
Standard kanji spelling; high-frequency in news and common usage.
Alternate kanji spelling; less common but still used.
Compound of 小 (small) and 道 (road, path). The reading こみち is a straightforward combination of the kun'yomi readings of the two kanji.