Hiking Etiquette

The outdoors belongs to all of us, and every hiker plays a role in protecting the trails and the experiences they offer. Whether you’re new to hiking or have logged countless miles, brushing up on trail etiquette helps keep nature wild, safe, and enjoyable for everyone. These simple tips aren’t just about rules—they’re about building a respectful, kind, and thriving outdoor community.

Uphill Hikers Have the Right of Way
When you’re hiking uphill, your body is working harder against gravity, using more oxygen and energy to maintain forward motion. Stopping mid-climb breaks that momentum and forces your muscles and heart to work even harder to restart—kind of like slamming the brakes on a bike and trying to pedal again on a hill. Giving uphill hikers the right of way isn’t just courtesy, it’s science-backed kindness: it helps them conserve energy and maintain their rhythm.

Pack It In, Pack It Out (Yes, Even Apple Cores and Toilet Paper)
It might feel harmless to toss an apple core or bury toilet paper, but the truth is they don’t just “disappear.” Food scraps, even natural ones, can attract wildlife, change their eating habits, and spread non-native seeds into fragile ecosystems where they don’t belong. Toilet paper can take years to decompose, leaches chemicals into soil, and creates an unsightly mess for the next hiker. The simple solution? Bring a small zip bag or reusable container to stash trash (line it with another bag if you want to keep it extra clean). Think of it as leaving the trail exactly as you found it—for the plants, animals, and the people who come after you.

Keep Pets Leashed
Even the best-behaved dogs can trigger trouble on the trail—most wildlife encounters and attacks start when animals feel threatened or chased by an off-leash pet. Beyond safety, many trails and parks have specific rules about dogs (and some don’t allow them at all), so it’s important to check before you go. A leash protects your pup, the wildlife, and fellow hikers, while making sure everyone can enjoy the trail responsibly.

Be Trail Aware
Sticking to marked paths keeps ecosystems healthy and prevents erosion—but awareness doesn’t stop there. If you pause for a photo, take a break, or chat with friends, step to the side so others can pass easily. Being mindful of space keeps the trail flowing smoothly and shows courtesy to everyone sharing it, from solo hikers to big groups.

Respect Wildlife
Wild animals aren’t photo props—they’re powerful, unpredictable, and deserve space. Some of the most underestimated creatures, like deer, bison, elk, and moose, are actually responsible for many injuries because they seem harmless until they feel threatened. Respecting wildlife means keeping your distance, never feeding animals, and knowing how to respond if you cross paths. Here are a few you might encounter across the U.S.:

• Squirrels & Chipmunks – Don’t feed them; human food harms their health.

• Skunks – Give plenty of space; back away calmly to avoid a spray.

• Deer & Elk – Keep your distance; never approach during rutting or calving season.

• Bison – Stay at least 25 yards away; they can run three times faster than you.

• Moose – Never get close; they’re aggressive when stressed and can charge.

• Black Bears – Make noise as you hike; if encountered, stay calm, back away slowly.

• Brown/Grizzly Bears – Carry bear spray; don’t run—back away, and stand your ground if charged.

• Cougars (Mountain Lions) – Make yourself look big, stay loud, and never turn your back.

Giving wildlife the respect they deserve keeps both you and them safe—so admire from a distance, and let the wild stay wild.

Be Kind
The outdoor community thrives on simple acts of kindness—a smile, a friendly hello, or a quick step aside can turn a passing moment into something memorable. Many people head to the trail to find peace, recharge, or feel connected, and a positive encounter can encourage them to keep coming back. By creating a welcoming space for others, you’re helping grow a culture where everyone feels inspired to explore and care for the outdoors.

Hitting the trail is about more than reaching the summit—it’s about how we treat the land, the wildlife, and each other along the way. By following these trail etiquette basics, you help preserve the places we love so they remain welcoming for future generations. Let’s keep showing up for nature and for one another—because small actions add up to big impact.