There are few experiences as relaxing and peaceful as heading out on the trails and enjoying the serenity of the great outdoors. I have noticed an increase in the number of hikers in recent years, a result, I’m sure, of the increased awareness of the benefits of spending time outside. With new hikers hitting the trails every day, it’s time to take a step back and discuss some of the basic hiking etiquette rules.
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There is no denying the fact that we are blessed here in Canada and the United States with a large number of BEAUTIFUL trails at our disposal. From National, Provincial and State Parks to conservation areas and nature preserves, there really is something for everyone! Many hikers, including beginners and those with more experience, have accepted hiking-related challenges this year.
One of the big challenges that I have seen discussed in a number of hiking and outdoor travel groups is the 52-hike challenge, encouraging hikers to get out and visit a hiking trail every week of the year.
While there is no denying the simplicity of a hiking trip (that’s one reason why so many people are drawn to it), there are still some rules and guidelines to consider. If you’ve discovered this post while seeking information as a new hiker, this is the most basic information you need to be aware of before heading out on the trails. Familiarize yourself with these basic hiking etiquette rules and you will avoid many mistakes that new hikers often make! Are you an experienced hiker that stumbled upon this post? Consider this an important reminder!
Table of Contents
8 Basic Hiking Etiquette Rules that Every Hiker Should Know:
#1 – Leave No Trace
It’s arguably the best-known rule of outdoor travel, and yet many still need a reminder. The basic idea is that when you leave a trail, you should leave behind no sign that you were ever there allowing for the hikers who come after you to enjoy the full experience. This means that any and all garbage and supplies that enter the trail with you must also leave with you when you’re done. If it wasn’t there when you arrived, it shouldn’t be there when you’re done. Taking this a step further, if you do see litter along the trail, pick it up and leave the trail a little better than you found it!
Another part of the Leave No Trace rule that is often overlooked is that you need to leave anything natural that you discover throughout your hike where you found it. Did you see a beautiful flower or an incredible artifact? Great, feel free to take pictures, but PLEASE leave it unharmed and undisturbed so that the next hiker can enjoy it too! Following the most basic hiking etiquette rules means not taking any souvenirs.
#2 – Stay On the Trail (If Using Marked Trails)
Continuing on the discussion of Leave No Trace, always stick to the existing trails. If you are hiking on a set of trails, don’t stray from them unless absolutely necessary. You may not realize it but stepping off the trails can cause damage to the ecosystem that you are currently exploring by damaging or even killing native plant and animal species. If the trails are too flooded or muddy, wait to take your hike on a different day when the trails will be accessible once again. Walking around mud patches and puddles that cover the trail will contribute to erosion, causing long-term damage to your favourite trails.
#3 – Be Mindful When ‘Doing Your Business’
If you’re going on a longer hike, there may come a time when you need to use the washroom. On most trails, you’re not going to come upon an outhouse along the way, so you need to be prepared to ‘do your business’ while causing the smallest impact possible. It is recommended that you move a minimum of 200 feet off the trail (approximately 40 average adult paces) and maintain the same distance from any water sources. When moving off the trail, watch your footing carefully and try to disturb the area as little as possible. Be aware of any sensitive vegetation so that you can avoid trampling it.
When you are finished, be sure to pack up ALL waste to remove from the trail with you. While it is true that toilet paper will eventually decompose, it is not a naturally occurring form of waste and should not be left to impact the ecosystem. That simple sheet of paper includes many different chemicals that can have a negative effect.
Finally, be aware of your surroundings. Make sure that you are out of sight of any other hikers that are enjoying the trails at the time. The best way to do this is to find a private spot behind a tree or rock.
#4 – Know Your Right of Way (And Yield to It)
Depending on the trail that you are travelling, you may find yourself encountering other hikers, mountain bikers or even horseback riders. In order to ensure that everyone can enjoy their experience (and do so safely), you need to understand the right of way guidelines and do your best to adhere to them. This will allow you to pass one another safely and both continue on your day. There is a hierarchy on the trails, and it exists to protect everyone involved!
If you encounter a horseback rider while hiking, it is your responsibility to move out of their way and allow them the right of way. Why? Horses can be easily startled and spooked, and a spooked horse can create a dangerous situation. For this reason, you should always announce your arrival calmly from a distance if you are coming up behind a rider. If possible, step off to the downhill side as it is seen as less intimidating to the horse.
If you encounter a mountain biker while you are hiking, it is the biker’s responsibility to yield. The idea is that bikers are able to maneuver easier and therefore they can stop or move out of the way easier than a hiker or horseback rider.
Finally, there are right of way considerations for hikers encountering other hikers. If you are a solo hiker or a small group, be prepared to yield to larger groups. It’s easier for you to move out of the way for a dozen other hikers than it would be for all of them to move for you. If you are on a hill, those travelling downhill should yield to hikers going uphill. It takes more energy to hike uphill and your visibility is limited to a shorter distance in front of you while hikers travelling downhill have clear visibility. Finally, much like on a road, if you come up behind a hiker you should pass on the left. Be sure to announce your arrival if you are coming up behind another hiker so that you don’t startle anyone.
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#5 – Be Friendly and Amicable
No hiker is more entitled to the trails than any other. This is important to remember when you are out and about on your outdoor adventures. Basic hiking etiquette rules state that when yielding to another hiker, you need to make an effort to allow appropriate room for them to pass. Don’t simply stop in the middle of the trail and expect them to find a way around you. Take the time to step off to the side, moving any gear out of their way and restraining dogs if you are hiking with any. If you are hiking in a group, move into hiking single file when passing others or being passed.
Adding to this, you can approach or interact with your fellow hikers in a friendly and amicable manner. You don’t need to bark at someone to announce yourself if you are coming up behind them with the intent to pass. Instead, announce yourself in a pleasant tone. If you do encounter other hikers, greet them in a kind way. This doesn’t mean you have to stop and engage in conversation with them for the next 15 minutes, but even a smile and a nod of the head can have a significant impact on their day!
#6 – Minimize Noise Pollution
Another way that you can show respect to other hikers is to minimize your noise pollution when you are out in the trails. Remember, everyone is out here to enjoy the great outdoors. While there is nothing wrong with talking among your group when you’re hiking, try to keep volume levels down to a respectable level. Don’t shout on the trails unless it is absolutely necessary during an emergency situation.
Another form of noise pollution to consider is your use of modern technology. No one is heading out on the trails in hopes of hearing your music blaring or the constant noises created by your smartphone. If you aren’t comfortable shutting these devices off and storing them away (or silencing them if you are using your phone to take photographs), consider investing in a high-quality pair of Bluetooth headphones for your next hike.
Not only can high noise levels be jarring or upsetting for other hikers, but you can also frighten local wildlife. This may send them into hiding, reducing the chance of any sightings. If everyone were to disregard this rule, it could even have a longer-term impact on the ecosystem. Take the opportunity to take in all the peaceful, relaxing sounds of the great outdoors instead.
#7 – Don’t Feed the Wildlife
We have talked a lot about avoiding any disruption to the natural ecosystem on your favourite hike but have yet to discuss one of the most important points. When you’re out on the trails, never feed the local wildlife. This isn’t about whether the foods you brought along are safe for their consumption or not, it’s bigger than that. Feeding the local wildlife can have a long-term effect on their natural behaviours, exposing them to predators and other dangers while interfering with their natural ability to forage for food. For this reason, basic hiking etiquette rules state not to feed ANY food to the local wildlife, regardless of what it may be.
This includes not only avoiding actively feeding the wildlife but also being responsible with your own food rations. Store your food in your pack carefully to avoid leaving any behind. If you do stop for a snack, all food and waste should be promptly stored away securely afterwards.
#8 – Be A Responsible Dog Owner
We’re about to discuss some of my personal pet peeves. It is important to note that all of our hiking is done with our dogs, so I am not anti-hiking with dogs. I am, however, anti irresponsible dog owners on the trails! That being said, not all trails are dog-friendly. Always check before heading out.
If you are hiking on a trail with set leash laws, follow them. These laws are in place for a number of reasons including protecting your dog, other dogs that you encounter, the natural wildlife in the area and other hikers on the trail. NO ONE is above the rules, you are no better than any other hiker out on the trail at that time. Hikers that are nervous around dogs or that are hiking with a skittish or reactive dog will often be careful to select a trail with leash laws to avoid situations caused by encountering a loose dog. If you are unable to keep your dog on a leash, find a trail where that is permitted.
Further to this, keep in mind that not all hikers are dog lovers. There are many people who love the great outdoors but may be afraid of your dog, regardless of their size. Allowing your dog to run up to them or jump on them can cause distress and ruin their experience. When you are passing other hikers, always keep your dog close and under control. Assume that everyone you meet is afraid of dogs at first and react accordingly. If someone wants to approach your dog, they have the opportunity to ask you.
On a similar note, not all dogs are dog-friendly. It doesn’t matter how ‘friendly’ or ‘well-behaved’ you believe that your dog may be. We have 2 amazing dogs that love each other very much, one of which adores playing with other dogs regularly. However, in both cases, a strange dog running up to us on a trail would likely lead to a dangerous situation. We have one dog that is afraid of other dogs on the first meeting and, therefore, is dog reactive. The other is incredibly protective of me. Rather than seeing a new friend running her way, she would see a strange dog running in my direction and instantly jump into protective mode. These are perfect examples of why you need to keep your dog on a leash in order to keep YOUR dog safe as well!
Finally, ALWAYS travel with dog poop bags on hand. It is your responsibility to clean up after your dog. After you have used a bag, be prepared to carry that out with you. Going back to the Leave No Trace rule, no one else wants to see your dog’s poop bags sitting decoratively on the side of the trail.
What basic hiking etiquette rules do you feel are often overlooked? Share them in the comments below as a reminder to other hikers and a source of information to those that are new to the world of hiking!
These are great reminders as I start preparingmy Spring and Summer hikes. Thank you for sharing your insights!!
I am getting so antsy for the warmer season – there are a number of hikes I can’t wait to do, but they are further away and we head that direction camping in order to do them lol
If I am ever brave enough I’m going to take your post into consideration!
There are many shorter, simpler hikes that are more beginner friendly!
Oh my gosh every hiker needs to read this! These are such good etiquette rules!!
Thank you! I know that some of them are super common sense, but others like right of way can easily be forgotten or overlooked if you’ve been hiking for a while!
I wish I could go hiking someday! Thanks for sharing your insights and love your energy and attitude towards nature. Very helpful post.
I’m sure there are some trails not too far from you. Every area is different as far as scenery, etc., but each offers it’s own beauty!
It’s been a while since I last hiked in a tropical forest. These are great tips, thank you for sharing ?
—Athena Christy
https://athenachristy.wordpress.com
It’s been a while since I was in a tropical forest, although that’s a hike I’d love to do again soon! I’ve been doing a lot of mine in the hardwood forests and evergreens here in Canada as of late
These are great to know, especially for us new hikers!
Welcome to the world of hiking! I LOVE getting out on the trails!
This is such a great read and reminder! What all hikers need to be aware of. Can’t wait for spring time.
I love my peaceful winter hikes, don’t get me wrong, but I can’t wait for the warmer weather when my husband and I venture our further with our dogs!
You are incredibly fortunate to have so many beautiful hiking spots in your part of the world. There are so few in Manchester! I’m really Keen however to get into hiking – these are such wonderful tips xxxx
I really am, there are trails all over here in Canada – you have your choice of multiple anywhere you go.
I’ve never been hiking so I never would have thought about any of these points tbh. If I didn’t see this and didn’t see any signs then I would have tried to feed the animals tbh.
A lot of people do, and they aren’t meaning to cause any issues, they just don’t know better!
This is a great post with very good information for all. Thanks for sharing
I love this, I’m not really hiker but I’m a big advocate of knowing the etiquette for your activities. I especially love the noise pollution part. Nothing ruins a peaceful outdoor experience like a loud person who can’t respect an appreciation for quiet.
I will never understand the people who go out of their way to spend time outdoors on a hiking trail but then play their music so loud that they can’t enjoy the sounds of nature and scare off any wildlife they may have seen along the way.
Great reminders! Thank you. I love a good hike.
I really want to take a hike long enough to sleep on. Also, horseback riding hiking trails sounds freaking awesome!
It’s relatively common around here to see horses on our trails. I love that we’re all able to share and respect the same space.
This is super helpful! A lot seems to be based in common sense, but that’s often not quite as ubiquitous as the term implies. It’s about being considerate of others and of the ecosystem. Some really great tips on the list that I was not aware of. Thank you!
It’s always sad to realize that we have to state that which seems obvious to many of us. Unfortunately, there are many out there that just don’t ‘get it’.
What a fantastic reminder for all hikers. Hiking is a definitely a favorite of mine. It’s my way of meditation and I love being nature and watching wildlife. Which I find it weird, when some hikers put on loud music on speakers during hikes. Like, “I came out here to listen to nature. How about listening to David Guetta’s bass beats on your headphones, thanks.”
Yes! If I want to listen to loud music, I have plenty of opportunity to enjoy it at home!
These are great reminders for hikers or anyone enjoying the countryside. I live in an area where people often camp overnight. Some leave the following morning and you would have known they’d been there. Others leave bottles and food wrappers. It makes us annoyed.
I can’t understand how someone can claim to enjoy the great outdoors, and yet not respect it. That has always confused me.
I agree. These are the rules for hiking. Thank you for sharing.
I’m hoping to do more hiking in southern Italy this coming Spring and Summer. These reminders will definitely come in handy, especially because I hope to do longer and more expert level hikes! This will help me be respectful to the environment and the other experienced hikers! 🙂
That’s a beautiful area to go hiking!
Great tips for hiking etiquette. You’d think being amicable would be a no brainer for people but surprisingly no! Cleaning up after your dog is big by us. We see people letting this go all the time. The natural thought is well we’re outside in the woods who cares but you need to take care of this. Most fo the trails by me on Long Island (NY) are filled with horseback riders as well. We learned early on as kids not to spook a horse.
It’s so sad to me to see all the dog owners that fail to take responsibility. Unfortunately, many non-dog people end up judging all of us by those bad apples. We go nowhere without our dogs… as a result, you can find doggie bags in my purse, in both our coat pockets, in the center console of the jeep, etc. I’d rather be over prepared!
These are all such great rules! Every hiker should definitely read this post. I love to hike as well. It is definitely one of my favorite hobbies!
There’s something so relaxing and peaceful about it!
I’m excited to do some hiking this summer! We live close to the Rockies and it is absolutely beautiful there. Your tip about keeping the noise pollution low is such a good one!! We are there to enjoy nature-not listen to loud music lol.
The Rockies make a stunning place to go hiking! We’ve been talking about making a trip out there at some point so that we can hike some trails in the area.
I love going for long walks and hikes. I did not realize there is an etiquette. Thanks for writing it down and i agree with you on all point that nature needs to be respected and passed on to next generation. Your writing is clear and to the point and i love your pics.
Thank you! I think it’s important to have some basic rules and etiquette guidelines to ensure that everyone has the best experience. Although much of it is rooted in common sense, I think.
These are really important things for hikers to keep in mind. It’s a shame that people leave rubbish behind on the trails and don’t respect the environment.
It always upsets me SO much to see litter on the trails. We try to keep space in our packs to pick up litter along the way when we can.
These are all so important – being considerate to other people and to nature is all that’s required to be a responsible hiker. It astonishes me quite a bit when people litter at a pristine, beautiful natural location or make noise – last summer we came across a group of hikers in Switzerland who were playing loud music (one guy had a giant speaker strapped to his back!!) and spoiling the tranquillity for everyone else on the trail.
I will NEVER understand why people feel the need to blare music while on the trail. It genuinely baffles me… I would rather go embrace the peace and tranquillity of the outdoors while I’m there.
Thanks for the heads up, if I ever want to try to go hiking, I’ll come on here to remind myself of the rules. I am pinning this too.
Thank you!
Revealing tips from you on the do’s and dont’s of hiking. Although I am yet to do hiking, it would be very useful when I get going. Thanks for the great insights.
It’s a great activity and incredibly beginner-friendly!
I believe those 2 tips about don’t feed the wildlife and keep noise pollution down are the best. All too much I see families with they children misbehaving on my hikes. I know children will be children but they should be on better behavior.
I truly believe that people THINK they are doing a good thing when feeding wildlife. Unfortunately, it’s the exact opposite… For that reason, I think if more people were aware of the truth, it would quickly change their minds.
This was a very good post! I am familiar with runners etiquette and am aware of some of the things you mentioned but some of them I didn’t consider. Yet they are the same rules for sand dunes at the beaches, which is where I live.
I also do a lot of trail running (or I used to) and never thought about the problems that could arise by going off the path to get around mud. However, they hold races regardless of whether there is a lot of mud or not so I suppose they are expecting all the runners to ver off the path at one time or another.
I was also wondering if you were going to mention dogs. I so miss the times when dogs could run freely outdoors when hiking in nature but I do understand the reason for rules. I miss when I lived in a part of California where the mountains and trails were in my backyard and I could hike for miles and miles on the fireroads and not run into a single hiker. Then my dogs could run free. However, that was back in the 80s. Times have changed.
Times definitely have changed, and there are risks today that weren’t common back then. For example, there are reports in my area of meat packs with rat poison in them being found in local parks, set for the coyotes. By keeping my pups on a leash, I can control what they find/eat but I couldn’t if they ran off and discovered it without me.
Leave no trace is a big one! It always drives me nuts when we go hiking and we see trash people have left behind. I try to bring a bag with so we can pick up things as we are out walking.
We do the same thing, we keep some extra room in our pack just to carry out litter that we find along the way.
I knew about all of these except the right of way one. But it makes perfect sense too and I am glad to say that I learned something. I always hope I never make any major missteps when out hiking, and this post really reminded me of the basics.
Most of the basics really are common sense, however, it can be so easy to forget about them from time to time! That’s why a reminder is always a good thing 🙂
This is such a good guide! I wish more hikers took notice of the ‘right of way’ and took their rubbish home with them. The amount of litter I’ve seen on my local trail is awful. 🙁
It always upsets me SO much to see litter on the beautiful trails we frequent. My husband and I often bring a bag with us to pick up garbage as we go. I’d rather leave the trail a little better than how I found it when possible.