Hiking Etiquette - View Video
Hiking etiquette is something I learned by watching other hikers on the trails as well as reading trail courtesy signs and posted trail rules and guides. Adhering to hiking etiquette makes hikes even more pleasant and fun. Here are a few tips to take with you on your hike. Enjoy!
- When hiking remain on the trail, don't take shortcuts, or cut switchbacks. What is a switchback? It's a trail going up a steep hill or mountain only that trail is a zig-zag. Switchbacks make the trail easier to hike instead of having to climb a hill or mountain on a straight path up.
- Hike on the right of the trail which leaves room for others to pass.
- When you are coming up behind other hikers, pass on the left. You may want to let the hikers you are coming up behind and are going to pass, know that you are coming by calling out "On your Left." You are telling the hikers you are passing and to stay to their right.
- If you're like me and need to rest for a few moments, rest off the trail so you won't hinder other hikers. I generally sit on a large rock or huge boulder if there is one around.
- If you are going downhill and there are hikers coming uphill, give the uphill hikers the right of way.
- If you're hiking in a group, hike single file.
- Don't be a loud hiker, hike quietly. Keep conversations low. If you have music or other audio you're listening to please make sure that only you can hear it.
- Speak to other hikers as you encounter them - be polite and smile.
- Don't litter - bring a trash bag and take your trash with you.
- Before you begin a hike make sure you read any trail rules and guides that are posted.
- Don't approach the wildlife.
- I have come across dogs running around during my hikes, so leave dogs at home especially if they will chase wildlife or be bothersome to other hikers.
