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What is proper trail etiquette?
Who has the right of way?
It can be and is confusing. Tempers can flare. Safety is by far the most important thing to have in the back of your mind while out on the trails, but it can be hard to know what the safest course of action to take is when coming across another trail user. Here we've laid out exactly what you should do when encountering any type of trail user so you can hike, bike, or ride confidently.
Hiker/Hiker Etiquette
When you cross paths with another hiker, it's typical for the hiker going downhill to step aside for the one going uphill. Those going uphill have gravity against them and have typically worked up a momentum to help keep them going, so it makes the most sense to allow them to continue with that momentum. If passing, hikers should make sure to call out to alert the other hiker first, and pass on the left just as one would if driving a car. Hiking as part of a group? Out of courtesy to other hikers, stay in a single file line. As a solo hiker, yield to allow larger groups to pass.
Hiker/Mountain Biker Etiquette
Mountain bikers should yield to hikers, meaning that if one comes across a hiker going the opposite direction, they should pull to the side to let them walk past. If they're going the same direction, bikers should use the same protocol to pass as another hiker would--announce themselves before passing and stay to the left. Of course, it's also good practice to slow while passing.
Hiker/Equestrian Etiquette
Equestrians hold the right-of-way against hikers, meaning hikers should yield to allow equestrians to go by. Be sure to avoid loud noises or sudden movements, as these can startle the horses. The responsibility of the rider is to inform the hiker if there's anything they should do to ensure the passing goes smoothly; clear communication is key in this situation. The USDA also recommends speaking calmly to the rider or even to the horse, as this allows the horse to recognize you as a human rather than a wild animal.
Biker/Biker Etiquette
Trail etiquette is especially important in this situation as bikers are the fastest-moving trail users. Luckily, that etiquette is pretty simple--those heading downhill should yield to those heading uphill. As with any interaction on the trail, you should always watch your speed.
Biker/Equestrian Etiquette
Mountain bikers should always yield to equestrians. The rider may ask them to dismount from their bikes; this is to avoid startling the horse and is a request that should always be honored. Bikers should always wait until the horse has completely passed before resuming their ride, as the Washington Trail Association warns.
Equestrian/Equestrian Etiquette
When encountering another equestrian, the rider moving uphill has the right-of-way. Of course, being the largest trail users, this kind of interaction can also be the trickiest. Always try to find an area that provides a wide berth for you to yield to the uphill-moving equestrian. If necessary, the riders can communicate with each other to figure out the best way to pass without any issues.
Dogs on Trails
As a hiker with a dog, trail etiquette is paramount, especially on a trail that allows equestrians. Of course, there are the basics; dogs should be kept on leashes and their owners should be picking up after them. But it's just as important to note that hikers with dogs should yield to all other trail users. Owners should keep their dogs close when passing, especially when passing children, horses, or other dogs. Be sure to communicate with equestrians to ensure that they can keep their horse comfortable.
Always communicate with other trail users to ensure that what you're doing is what makes the most sense for each situation. While the above guidelines are standard and will prove useful to you, always use common sense and prioritize safety.
The number one rule is to BE NICE!
Everyone is going through their own thing-- have sympathy and grace when others might be less so.