Thank you for replying to my thread since it took a long time to write this much. Trail sticker are always an issue and it is very frustrating to get them through but this is not the point here. The rejection criteria are just false from my point of view. So at least bot abuse is not an entirely wrong conclusion.
There is also a clarification thread in which you can read that supporting sites are wanted even from niantic. I will cite: “It can be difficult to prove the actual location of these markers, such as those under tree cover or not visible on street view. Submitters should make good use of the supporting text and photos when nominating and include when possible links to official sites in support of the nomination. Reviewers should also use clues such as trail and park maps to help.”