Basic Trail Etiquette

Gareth    General Outdoor    

No one has written a book on trail etiquette yet, and that is probably a good thing. Hikers are an independent lot, but one thing we all share is a common respect for our surroundings (Earth). After all, it’s the only one we have. It makes me angry when I’m hiking a pristine trail and see it littered with sweet wrappers, sandwich bags and other rubbish. It’s simple enough – if you packed it in, you pack it out. It’s not just about respecting the earth, but about respecting your fellow hikers too.

If fires are allowed, burn only dead wood. We’re hikers, not loggers so leave the trees alone. Speaking of fires, it’s a good idea to make yours where others have made theirs, the less of an imprint we leave, the better. Treat campsites in the same way, there’s no need to clear away bushes when another campsite has already been done.

There’s no need to widen a path for the same reason. On narrow trails, it makes sense for a party to walk single file.

When going to the bathroom, do it far enough from the trail that it won’t bother other people. Dig a hole and cover it up. Of course, you should never go close to a water source.

When passing people on a trail, nod, smile, and say hello. You might admire their outdoor clothing style, gain some valuable information about the walk or even make a new friend.

Trail etiquette is common courtesy and common sense.

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