Let’s Talk Trail Etiquette

In this time where more and more people are realizing the value of getting outdoors for mental health, for exercise or to enjoy the beauty of it all, trail usage is up and so is litter, loud music and dog waste. There are things we can all do to make sure that we are being the best versions of ourselves out on the trails.

• Do you know who has the RIGHT OF WAY on the trail? I’ll tell you that the trail runner that came barreling down the trail full speed either didn’t know or more likely knew, but didn’t do what they should have done. Let’s have a little test to see how we do.
  1. I am a downhill runner on the trail when I meet a hiker coming up. Who has the right of way?
  2. I am on a horse as I approach a group of college kids enjoying their hike. Who has the right of way?
  3. I am a mountain biker riding up the trail towards a family of hikers. Who has the right of way?
  4. I am a mountain biker riding uphill as another mountain biker is coming downhill. Who has the right of way?

Let’s see how you did. Here is the answer key.

1. 1. Those going downhill should yield to those going uphill.
   2. The horse has the right of way. In Utah, bikers and hikers yield to horses.
   3. Bikers yield to hikers and to horses.
   4. Downhill bikers yield to uphill bikers. Have you ever had to stop and then restart on a hill? Yep, that’s why.

• STAY ON THE TRAIL. Have you ever been on a hike and it was a beautifully maintained trail that was easy to follow and was surrounded by wonderful plants, grasses, mountains or desert flowers? Compare that to a trail where everyone walked wherever they want creating a host of braided trails throughout the area. This breeds confusion, damages vegetation, and creates an eye sore. By staying on trails we are helping protect the area from overuse, protecting individuals from getting lost and maintaining the beauty of the area.

• PETS. 
  • Keep your pets out of watershed areas. It is against the law and you will be fined.
  • Some trails offer off-leash days. For example, in Millcreek Canyon, UT, on odd numbered day dogs can be off leash. Keep them on leash the other days. I also like to call my dog to heel as we pass other hikers when she is off leash in case the other person is frightened by dogs.
  • Recognize that some dog owners (like myself) have our dogs on an e-collar which is more effective in controlling them than a traditional leash. Many big or strong dogs have this option because a leash just doesn’t cut it. Rest assured that it is often more effective.
  • Respect the rules for your area and only take your dog on trails that are dog approved.
  • There have been many heated discussions about picking up your dogs waste. Make sure that you do. Pack plastic bags, pick it up and CARRY IT WITH YOU. Some want to leave the waste on the side of the trial to grab on the way back. All too often, those little baggies get forgotten on the way out. If you don’t like carrying your dog’s waste, get your dog a dog backpack and have them carry it themselves. This is a great alternative and I assure you, your dog doesn’t mind.

• Litter. Just say no to litter. It is a sure fire way to ruin our beautiful outdoor playground not to mention affect wildlife. Take it in, take it out. Better yet, pack a garbage bag and pick up litter as you hike. “Leave it better than you found it” should be the motto.

• NEVER GO TO THE BATHROOM IN A SLOT CANYON. Be sure to carry what is called a Rest 1 and a Rest 2 bag. The Rest 1 bag is for when you really need to pee and cannot hold it. Rest 2 bag is if things get a little worse. You simply go on the bag and then pull it all together and the bag holds the waste. Yes. You do need to carry it out..unless you can get someone else to do the dirty work for you. If you must go to the bathroom on a trail, be sure to be 100 yards away from any water source. Be sure to bury your waste 6 inches deep.
  
• MUSIC. I don’t mind if you listen to music, just don’t make me listen to your music. Bring headphones and everyone will be happy.
• PLAY THROUGH. If another group approaches from behind and they are faster than you or a smaller number of people, it is best to let them pass on the trail or “play through” if you are in a slot canyon. This reduces bottle necking on trails and makes everyone’s hike more pleasant. Also, don’t be shy to ask to pass as sometimes it is difficult to hear someone coming up from behind.
• CAIRNS. You know the ones, the little rock towers that you once in a while see on the trail. Don’t build more and definitely don’t knock them down. These are way markers letting hikers know which direction to go.
• OBEY ALL POSTED SIGNS. No explanation needed.

• DON’T TAKE ANYTHING WITH YOU. Rocks, sticks, that little lizard. Leave it where you found it. Everyone will be happier this way.

That about wraps it up. If I missed anything, put it in the comments below.

Happy Hiking!!