Summer trail season is here! Hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders are hitting the trails for a season of adventure. Of course, as enjoyable as enjoying your favorite trails can be, summer can be a busy time out there, especially on weekends and holidays. That’s why now is a great time to brush up on summer trail etiquette. Some “rules of etiquette” are unwritten. Think of these as common courtesies. Other rules are written. These rules may be posted by local or state authorities near trailheads. Either way, it’s best to hit the trails feeling informed. Courtesy can go a long way when it comes to enjoying popular outdoor destinations. Yield to Others with the Right of Way On narrower trails, it’s important to know who has the “right of way” when you cross paths with other outdoor enthusiasts. During the summer, when trails are busier, the right of way can be even more important. It’s courteous, and it can help keep everyone moving. Who has the right of way and when? Generally, hikers and bikers on mixed-use trails have the right of way when going uphill. The idea behind this is that hikers and bikers going downhill can resume their pace more easily than those going uphill. However, this isn’t a hard and fast rule. If you’re headed uphill, see a downhill hiker or biker approaching, and want to be courteous and let them pass, simply stepping to the side can serve as clear communication they’re free to pass through. On a trail with horses? Horses and pack animals always get right of way. Obey the Signage From trail closures to trail warnings, it’s not uncommon to see signage posted around trailheads or along popular trails. Before heading out on the trail, always read any signs at the start of the trail. They’re posted for a reason. If a trail says it’s closed, you’ll have to change your plans. Signage can warn about possible trail hazards. Summer hazards can differ from other seasons due to changing conditions. You may be in an area affected by increased snow and ice melt. As a result, there may be increased erosion or rock falls near the trail to be aware of. There also may be wildlife concerns to note. Depending on your location, you may need to be aware of the presence of certain insects, snakes, bears, and other animals to make sure you know what to do in case of an encounter. Respect Muddy Trails For outdoor adventures, the forecast is tough to predict. That’s why packing your rain jacket is always a good idea. When it does rain or you’re in an area with summer snow melt, it’s crucial to pay close attention to current trail conditions. One of the quickest ways trails can end up damaged or widened comes down to their use in or after wet conditions. If a trail appears too muddy and you’re leaving footprints, it might be time to turn around. It’s never fun to turn around mid-hike, but it’s respectful to the trail and future hikers—yourself included. That said, simply use your best judgment. If you come across a puddle and it appears shallow and not overly muddy (that is, your feet or wheels won’t sink too deep into the mud), you might be able to continue on through the puddle—not around. Take your time and do what you can to avoid damaging the trail. >> Get Ready for Summer Trail Season
