HIKING

June 24, 202

6 TRAIL Etiquettes and Safety Tips

By An Trieu

HIKING ETIQUETTES

Written or unwritten rules of the trail. 'Proper hiking etiquette helps instill respect for other trail users, and it promotes stewardship of the land.' - National Park Services

Be mindful of your surroundings

01.

Say hello! Announce yourself politely if you want to pass from behind. Step aside so others can pass if you're slow. Keep music low or turn off phones completely.

STAY ON TRAIL

02.

And help preserve the trail and the ecosystems that surround it. Turn back if trail is too muddy to save the potential damage.

KNOW RIGHT OF WAY

03.

Hikers coming uphill have the right of way and going downhill yield to those hiking uphill.

LEAVE WHAT YOU FIND

04.

Always practice Leave No Trace principles and do not break or take anything that don't belong to you. Only come home with photographs and happy memories.

DON'T DISTURB WILDLIFE

05.

Don't feed wild animals as they can become dangerous when consuming human food. Always watch from a safe distance following parks and local rules.

GO TO THE RESTROOM IN THE OUTDOORS

06.

Use a private spot at least 200 feet away from trail, camping area, and water sources. Bring a zip bag to pack out your toilet paper.

more hiking tips for beginners: