Trail Etiquette/Rules

Trail etiquette a priority allows everyone to enjoy the outdoors and have a good time while being safe and courteous. Also remember everyone is out there for the same reasons, to enjoy nature and to enjoy what they are doing.

When travelling multi-use trails, you may encounter many different forms of trail use, such as hikers, bikers, ATVers, horseback riders, etc. Therefore, the user must adjust to different regulations (who passes first, who slows down, who gets the right of way).

If trail users conduct themselves in an appropriate manner, respect the environment and the other users, the trail experience will only get better. Keep safety and etiquette in mind when you are participating in trail use, this way trails will stay in good condition and the privilege will remain accessible for everyone.

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Using trails, whether hiking, biking, or horseback riding, comes with a set of unwritten (and sometimes written) rules designed to ensure safety, preserve the natural environment, and promote a positive experience for all users. These rules are often summarized by the Leave No Trace Principles and general trail etiquette.

Here's a breakdown of the key rules for using trails:

I. The Seven Leave No Trace Principles (Foundational Rules):

These principles are the bedrock of responsible outdoor recreation and apply to all trail users.

1. Plan Ahead and Prepare:

   • Know the regulations and special concerns for the area you're visiting (e.g., permits, closures, group size limits).

   • Check weather conditions and trail conditions (avoid muddy trails if possible).

   • Pack appropriate gear, water, food, and layers for potential changes.

   • Consider avoiding high-use times to minimize impact.

   • Repackage food to minimize waste.

   • Use maps and navigation tools to stay on marked trails.

2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces:

   • Stay on marked trails. Do not create new paths or cut switchbacks. Going off-trail damages vegetation and contributes to erosion.

   • Walk single file in the middle of the trail, even if it's wet or muddy (walking around mud widens the trail).

   • If camping, use existing campsites and pitch tents on durable surfaces like rock, gravel, or compacted soil, at least 200 feet from water sources.

3. Dispose of Waste Properly:

   • Pack it in, pack it out. This means all trash, including food scraps, fruit peels, and toilet paper.

   • Deposit solid human waste in "catholes" dug 6-8 inches deep, at least 200 feet from water, trails, and campsites. Cover and disguise it. Pack out toilet paper and hygiene products.

   • Carry water 200 feet away from streams or lakes to wash yourself or dishes, using minimal biodegradable soap. Scatter strained dishwater.

4. Leave What You Find:

   • Leave rocks, plants, historical artifacts, and other natural objects as you find them.

   • Do not build structures, cairns (rock piles unless they serve as trail markers), or dig trenches.

   • Take only pictures and leave only footprints.

5. Minimize Campfire Impacts:

   • Where fires are permitted, use established fire rings, fire pans, or mound fires.

   • Keep fires small. Use only dead and downed wood that can be broken by hand.

   • Burn all wood and coals to ash, then completely extinguish the fire and scatter cool ashes.

   • Do not burn trash or food, as this attracts wildlife and produces toxic fumes.

   • Consider alternative light sources like headlamps or lanterns.

6. Respect Wildlife:

   • Observe wildlife from a distance. Do not follow, approach, or feed animals. Feeding wildlife harms their health and alters natural behaviors.

   • Protect wildlife and your food by storing rations and trash securely.

   • Control pets at all times (see pet rules below).

   • Avoid wildlife during sensitive times (mating, nesting, raising young, winter).

7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors:

   • Be courteous and friendly. A simple "hello" or nod goes a long way.

   • Keep noise levels down. Let nature's sounds prevail. Avoid loud voices, music, or phone calls.

   • Step to the side of the trail when taking breaks to allow others to pass.

   • Travel in small groups when possible.

II. Right-of-Way and Passing Etiquette:

These rules help ensure smooth and safe interactions on shared trails. While local variations may exist, general guidelines are:

• Yielding Hierarchy:

  • Equestrians (horses/pack animals) have the right-of-way over all other users. If you encounter horses, slowly and calmly step off to the downhill side of the trail, announce your presence, and follow any instructions from the rider. Avoid sudden movements or loud noises.

  • Bicyclists yield to hikers and equestrians. If you're on a bike, slow down significantly, stop if necessary, and communicate your intentions clearly.

  • Hikers going uphill generally have the right-of-way over downhill hikers. The uphill hiker often has less visibility and more momentum to maintain. However, an uphill hiker may choose to yield to catch their breath.

  • Slower users should yield to faster users. If someone is approaching from behind and wants to pass, step aside.

• Passing:

  • Communicate your presence. When approaching from behind, a friendly "On your left!" or "Passing on your left!" is common.

  • Pass safely and slowly. Do not startle other users.

  • If you are being passed, acknowledge the passer and allow them room.

III. Specific Considerations:

• Pets:

  • Keep dogs on a leash unless explicitly designated as an off-leash area.

  • Always pack out pet waste. Do not leave bagged waste on the trail.

  • Ensure your dog is well-behaved and under control to avoid disturbing wildlife or other users.

• Muddy Trails:

  • Avoid using trails that are excessively muddy. This causes significant damage, widening the trail and contributing to erosion.

  • If you encounter a muddy spot, walk through the middle of the mud rather than around it, to avoid widening the trail.

• Trail Closures:

  • Respect all trail and area closures. These are in place for safety, maintenance, or environmental protection.

• Emergencies:

  • Be prepared for emergencies by carrying a first-aid kit, knowing basic first aid, and informing someone of your itinerary.

  • Know how to call for help if needed (though cell service may be limited).

By following these rules, you contribute to the enjoyment and preservation of trails for everyone, today and in the future. Always check specific regulations for the trail or park you are visiting, as rules can vary.

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Basic Trail Etiquette (courtesy of USFS)

• Be aware of other trail users.

• Stay to the right of the trail (except when passing).

• Slow down at corners.

• Always clean up after yourselves.

• Obey all the trail rules.

• Give a clear warning signal when passing: call out passing on your left.

• Always look ahead and behind when passing.

• Travel at reasonable speed.

• Keep pets on a leash.

• Move off the trail when letting others pass.

• Yield to other trail-users when entering and crossing trail.

• Do not disturb wildlife.

• Stay on the trail (respect the environment, do not venture off the trails).

• Do not litter.

• Do not drink or contaminate water sources (wash 100 feet away from any nearby water source).

• Use provided toilet facilities (if you are unable to find a facility, dig a hole 6 inches deep at least 200 feet from any open water).

• Do not make fires (use picnic areas and grills if provided).

• Respect wildlife. Your surroundings are home to many plants and animals: you are the visitor.

• Obey all posted signs. These indicate special restrictions that apply to the trail you are on.

General Trail Etiquette by Activities

Hikers, Walkers, Backpackers

• Move off the trail whenever possible for other trail users.

• When meeting someone riding a horse, step off the trail and speak calmly.

Mountain Bikers, Bikers

• Know your ability, equipment and the area.

• Move off the trail for less mobile users.

• Do not ride under conditions where you leave evidence of passing, i.e. after rain or snow.

• Stay on the trail.

• Do not ride through streams.

• Make presence known at corners or blind spots.

• Control your bicycle.

• Always yield trail.

Equestrians

• Practice minimum impact techniques.

• Observe speed limits.

• Always clean up after your horse.

• Avoid campsites used by other trail users.

• Keep horses in campsite only long enough to unpack or pack them.

• Stock tied to trees ruins trees and turf: do so only for a short time. Use tie lines.

• Never tie horses within 200 feet of lakes, streams or springs.

Motorized

• Approach pedestrians slowly, pull over and turn off your engine.

• When passing someone, follow at a safe distance until you reach a safe place to pass: pass slowly.

• Minimize noise with proper care and operation of your vehicle.

• Respect trail closures.

• Stay on the trail.

• Do not ride on areas that are either wet, have loose soil, steep slopes, meadows or swamps.

• When camping, ride directly to and from your campsite or turn off your vehicle and push it.