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Proper etiquette on the trails is important. Here are 7 tips for trail etiquette.
1. Always Greet Each Other
It may seem basic but there are lots of people out there who just walk past and don’t even acknowledge you. It’s kind of creepy to be honest. I know sometimes we get into a zone and kind of forget where we are, but for the most part, be sure you say hi to passing people or at least give a head nod. It’s always appreciated.
2. People going uphill have the right of way
The reason for this is because they are exerting more energy getting uphill and it’s courtesy to give berth to them. Sometimes you’ll come across someone coming uphill who wants to take advantage of that time to take a breather and that’s ok. Just be sure to offer to let them go first.
3. Leave No Trace
This is a big one. Make sure you always clean up after yourself and leave no trace. That includes the pieces of fruit that you dropped and the trash from your lunch. Remember, this land is just for us to visit and we should be respectful and leave it the way we left it! That brings me to my next one.
4. Stay on the Trail
The trails have already been created to cause as little damage to the plants and wildlife as possible. Please stay on the trails as much as possible to avoid creating new paths that shouldn’t be there. Included in this tip is to also leave the wildlife and plants alone. Just because you see some pretty flowers doesn’t mean that you need to pluck them. Just because you see a cute baby deer, doesn’t mean you should go off trail following it. Not only is it bad for the trails, but it’s bad for the animals as well!
5. Move Aside for Large Groups
Occasionally you’ll see a family or large group coming your way. Be sure to move aside for them. It’s much easier for a single person or a couple to find a spot to the side than it is for a large group. And be sure to greet them as they’re passing!
6. Pass on Left
If there’s someone in front of you who’s moving slower than you, be sure to pass them on the left and greet them at the same time so that they know you’re there.
7. Hiker Midnight
Have you ever gone camping and the group next to you feels like they need to party all night long? Well, on trail we have something known as hiker midnight. It’s not an actual, exact time but it’s right around 9pm. Please stop all loud noises and “partying” before this time. When you’ve been hiking all day and just want to sleep, it’s difficult when those around you are still going.
And that’s it, those are my tips. I know there are more, but to me, these are the important ones. What would you add to the list?
