Trail Etiquette: The Unwritten Rules of Hiking

Every trail has unwritten rules. Knowing them makes the experience better for everyone. Here are the essentials.

Uphill Hikers Have Right of Way

When two hikers meet on a narrow trail, the person going uphill has the right of way. They are working harder and breaking their rhythm to step aside costs them more energy. The downhill hiker should step to the side and wait.

Leave No Trace

The seven Leave No Trace principles boil down to this: leave the trail exactly as you found it. Pack out all trash including food scraps. Stay on marked trails. Do not pick flowers or disturb wildlife. If you need a bathroom break, dig a hole at least six inches deep and two hundred feet from water.

Music and Noise

No bluetooth speakers on the trail. Ever. People come to nature for quiet. Use earbuds if you need music, or better yet, listen to the birds. Keep conversations at a reasonable volume, especially near other hikers.

Dogs on the Trail

Keep your dog on a leash unless the trail specifically allows off-leash dogs. Not everyone is comfortable around dogs, and even friendly dogs can disrupt wildlife. Pick up after your dog. Leaving bags of dog waste on the trail for later pickup is not acceptable.

Passing Other Hikers

When overtaking slower hikers, announce yourself with a friendly hello or on your left. Do not just appear silently behind someone. On busy trails, step aside periodically to let faster hikers pass.