Hiking Etiquette

Whether you’ve been an avid hiker for years or you’ve just decided to try your first hike, knowing and understanding how to be polite on the trail is crucial to ensuring the experience is enjoyable for yourself and others. The outdoor community has some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet; they also understand the importance of demonstrating courtesy and respect to others and the environment.

Right of Way

Hikers vs. Hikers

Hikers traveling uphill always have right of way. Often times on steep stretches, you may notice them step to the side to take a quick rest or catch their breath, but remember that it is their choice. Uphill is always more difficult than down, as it can be a challenge to regain your momentum if you change or slow your speed during the ascent.

Hikers vs. Bikers

Some trails may be multi-use, and on such trails, one might encounter mountain bikers. Mountain bikers are expected to yield to hikers. However, as bikers travel at faster speeds, it is easier for hikers to step to the side of the trail. It is also more difficult for bikers to regain momentum than it is for hikers. If you notice a mountain biker approaching, under no circumstance should you fail to yield based on the expectation that they should be yielding to you.

Hikers vs. Horses

Another encounter on multi-use trails are horses, and riders upon them. Everyone is expected to yield to horses and their riders. Horses can be easily spooked and will bolt dangerously if they feel threatened. Stepping off the trail on the downhill side, ensures that your position is less threatening to the horse. Giving a wide berth and talking to the rider as they pass, may also help ease the horse.

Hikers vs Motorized Vehicles

Though a rare encounter on most back country trails, and perhaps more frequent in front country or smaller parks, a hiker might encounter an individual driving or riding a motorized vehicle. Such vehicles may include cars, trucks, ATVs, or motorbikes; and may be manned by park patrols, first responders, or in rare cases civilians. Motorized vehicles are always expected to yield to any other traveler on the trails. However for your safety, step to the side if possible. Always be sure to make eye contact or wave to the driver to confirm they are aware of your presence.

Keep Right, Pass Left

A trail is much like a road, a path for individuals to travel. As a courtesy, you are expected to stay to the right to allow others to pass. When approaching someone from behind, in an attempt to pass, make sure they are aware of your presence. You could simply say, “On your left,” though a friendlier greeting might do just as well; “Good afternoon,” “Hi, how’s it going, may I pass you.” If there are others oncoming, you should yield to them before you attempt to pass. Remember, uphill traffic has the right of way.

Greet Others in a Friendly Manner

One of my favorite qualities about the outdoors community, and the single biggest surprise many people find on their first excursion on the trails, is how everyone you meet will greet you. A simple greeting such as “Good morning,” “Hello,” or “How are you,” can go a long way towards fostering a positive experience outdoors. Interacting with others can help you obtain information about trail conditions or other issues; and in the case that you get lost, other hikers may be able to aid rescuers by informing them where they last saw you.

Speak Quietly

Speak at a low volume on the trails. If you are speaking loudly or screaming with your friends, you won’t only annoy other hikers, but you will significantly decrease the chance of seeing any wildlife. Be considerate of other hikers and preserve the experience for them as well as yourself. Refrain from having a conversation on your cellphone. If you have service, surely you can send a text.

Tech Use

In addition to refraining from conversations on your cell phone, do not play music aloud or use portable speakers. You may prefer to have a soundtrack for your hiking adventure, but others may not. If you want to enjoy tunes on the trail, put on some headphones. Be aware that you’ll be tuning out the sounds of nature, and you may miss the signs of something beautiful or something dangerous.

Rest and Camp Off Trail

Setting up a camp for the night, or just stopping for a lunch break; take your rest off the trail, as not to obstruct the path for others. Perhaps you can find a boulder to sit upon, or simply move to the edge of the trail. If you decide to leave the beaten path, be wary of your impact on sensitive vegetation.

Leave No Trace

The Seven Principles of Leave No Trace provide an easy to understand framework for anyone spending time in the outdoors. These principles can be applied anywhere from remote wilderness treks to a walk in your local park. They also apply to nearly every recreational activity. Each principle covers a specific aspect for minimizing your impact on the environment. The Seven Principles are as follows:

Plan Ahead and Prepare
Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
Dispose of Waste Properly
Leave What You Find
Minimize Campfire Impacts
Respect Wildlife
Be Considerate of Other Visitors