Trail Etiquette

So, you are ready to hit the trails. But did you know we have certain “rules” that everyone follows. Some are unspoken in ways while others you will see on signs and printed materials. Knowing and understanding these will make your time on the trail better and allow you to be a good steward of the trail. Please follow them all. This is not picking which ones you like or want to do. If you want to spend time in nature, not only respect nature but also respect the others that are enjoying nature at the same time.

Etiquette 101

Know the right of way

• downhill yields to uphill
• bikes yield to hikers / walkers / runners
• everyone yields to stock animals and wildlife
• stay to the right except when passing
• hike single-file, never taking up more than half the trail
• if you stop, step off the trail to not block others

Make yourself known

• say ‘hello’
• give a head nod or a smile
• call out when passing on the left

Be mindful of trail conditions

• Don’t use if it’s too wet and muddy
• if you come upon a puddle, go through it not around it

Stay on the trail

• don’t go off the trail
• no bushwhacking
• do not cut switchbacks
• going off trail hurts the ecosystem

Obey posted signs

• any sign posted with instructions on what to do or not to do must be followed
• do not go around signs or barricades keeping you out or off certain sections of a trail

Do not disturb wildlife

• keep your distance; use the thumb rule
• do not feed any wildlife
• remember we are in their home

Take time to listen

• respect nature and others by keeping noise to a minimum
• leave your Bluetooth speakers at home – no one wants to hear what you are listening to – we only want to hear the natures song around us

Be aware of your surroundings

• watch for predators (wildlife and human)

Don’t be a litter bug

• pack it in and pack it out

Don’t make fires

• know current fire restrictions and rules
• always follow Smokey rules for fire safety
• only use existing fire rings or picnic areas

Leave what you find

• only souvenirs should be pictures and memories
• never take any artifact to nature resources you find while exploring nature

Bathroom breaks while in nature

• use provided facilities when possible
• if you must potty in nature then dig a hole, cover it up, and leave no toilet paper behind

Fido has the same rules

• keep on a leash at all times
• keep under control
• pick up their poo

Trail etiquette is everyone’s responsibility.

Remember to respect each other on the trials.

🥾 What do you wish people where ‘better’ at on the trails?

Want to learn more about being out on the trail?  That’s where I come in. Let me help you understand the ins and outs of getting out on the trail in nature. I want to take all the knowledge and experiences I have had and share them with you so you can hit the trail with more confidence. Ready for whatever comes around the next turn. I would be honored to be your Trail Coach. We can go anywhere from city parks to state parks to national parks to blm land to national forests and everywhere in between. If there is some amazing nature to be seen, we can do it together one adventure at a time.

Get my Trail Checklist now to make sure you are prepared to head outdoors. This list is a great starting point and has my top items for both hiking and trail running.

Follow me on Instagram at @fabandfitwithrj for more education, motivation, and inspiration.

Until the next trail…

Coach RJ

Photo Credit:

Photo by Yaroslav Shuraev: https://www.pexels.com/photo/a-couple-in-the-forest-8968486/