Thinking of taking a hike....
If you are taking a hike you surely have researched where you want to go, how long it will take you to complete the trail, and perhaps if you should pack a lunch. However, you may or may not have researched how to behave while you are out hiking.
There are basic rules like don't litter, don't spray paint etc, but there are other things you can do to be the best hiker you can be.
Hiking and Trail Etiquette Rule One
Yield to Other Hikers
If you are heading downhill you will travel faster than uphill hikers and also have an easier time than them. Make sure you yield to the uphill hikers to make the path easier for them.
On a similar note, yield to faster hikes and let them pass you easily. Usually it's a good idea to stay on one side of the trail, but many times we wander and shift in the path without us knowing. Just keep and eye out for faster hikers approaching and make sure to let them pass easily.
Hiking and Trail Etiquette Rule Two
Take Nothing Except Pictures
There are lots of beautiful rocks, leaves, flowers, etc around the trails. It's fine to take pictures and to marvel, but just make sure to LEAVE the beautiful things where you found them.
Hiking and Trail Etiquette Rule Three
Avoid Being an Instagram Hiker
It's fine to take pictures and to enjoy the environment in your own way--just beware the trap of Instagram Hiker. Instagram Hiker is fairly easily explained, and again nothing wrong with Instagram. However if you are constantly stopping along the trail to take pictures, or taking a long time at the trail destination taking pictures you may have fallen in to the trap. Avoid taking too long at views, waterfalls, etc because other hikers will want to enjoy the view as well. Never climb on anything to take a picture, not only is this dangerous but it can also damage the trail.
Hiking and Trail Etiquette Rule Four
Sound of Silence
The trails are a place of serenity and thought. It's not a time for music, loud laughter or chatter, or phone noises. Please respect the other hikers around you and the possible campers around you and keep the sound of silence going.
Hiking and Trail Etiquette Rule Five
Foodies Beware
It's always a wise idea to bring a snack or two on the hike with you, just make sure that the snack leaves in your backpack or your belly. Never leave food items or drink along the trail. Wildlife will be drawn to the smell and can come into some tricky confrontations with the human hikers who come after you. Not only that, but often hikers bring dogs along on the trail--and no one wants to worry about their dog picking up pieces of your last meal (which might be poisonous).
It's always good to behave as though you are in someone else's home when you are out on the trail. Dozens of men and women have worked hard to make sure these trails are safe, clean, and beautiful. Dozens of hikers have planned out exciting trips and if you are an insensitive hiker you can taint their trip. Make sure your trip is fun for not only yourself!
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