Hiking Etiquette
Step aside… for climbing hikers. It’s polite to give the person burning more calories the right of way. If the ascending hikers want to stop for a rest break, they can wave you ahead.
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Stay on the trail… be mindful and stay on the trail to avoid damaging the surrounding environment and leave the area just as you found it — including rock cairns. Don’t add or take away from those strategically placed piles of rocks, leave them be.
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Say hello to other hikers… It’s not just about being friendly; it’s about safety. The person you chat with for two minutes could be the vital link that directs rescuers to your location after you break your leg and do not return on schedule. The only exception to stopping is the rare event when you encounter another person who makes you feel unsafe. Keep moving in those situations, pull out a cell phone if you have one, or pretend you are with a group if you are hiking alone.
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Pets… if allowed, hike on dog-friendly trails and keep your furry friend on a leash if there are signs that only permit leashed dogs. Always keep your dog under control and within a line of sight. When another hiker approaches, leash your pup and step to the side. Be polite and let them know if your dog is friendly or if they are not. Always clean up after your dogs and keep them on the trail. Do not let them bother the wildlife or trample on flora and fauna, and don’t leave your poop bags lying around for others to pick up (even if you intend to pick it up on the way out).
Leave No Trace… always carry in and carry out your trash, recyclables and food waste, and make sure you are following Leave No Trace principles when it comes to human waste. But carrying out trash shouldn’t just be limited to your own. If you find other trash on the trail that others left behind, pack that out too. Leave it better than you found it!
https://americanhiking.org/resources/leave-no-trace/
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Additional reading:
https://bearfoottheory.com/trail-etiquette-hiking-rules/
https://americanhiking.org/resources/hiking-etiquette/
