With more people getting out into nature (especially in light of Covid-19 lockdowns being lifted), many people are discovering their County, State, and National Parks. However, for many, it is their first time venturing into these resources. For those people (and a gentle reminder to those who hike regularly but maybe forgot) here are some basic etiquette tips to help keep you and others safe and happy out in the wild.
These are not ranked, each one is important to keep in mind as you go:
Read the Signs - Parks do not have the resources to police every hiker. Do your part by reading directional signs, warning signs, and informational signs. These signs are designed to keep you safe and protect the wildlife and environment you are exploring for future generations.
Right of Way - Hikers on the way "up" have the right of way. If you are coming down, step to the side of the trail to give them enough space.
Share the Trail - Imagine the trail as a two way road with one lane in each direction. Stay to the right unless you are carefully passing someone. When in groups or couples, travel single file when others are approaching. If you are moving slower than others, step to the side, so others can proceed.
Stay on the Trail - Even if you see footprints (or other people) that go elsewhere, stay on the established and marked trails. Venturing off can get you lost and more importantly, you could be trampling on sensitive ecosystems or cultural resources.
Share at Least a Smile - When passing others on the trail, at least smile if you don't feel like saying hi or good day.
Don't Collect - Picking flowers and plants or taking stones, shells, sticks, etc. can deplete areas that are being conserved and leave an empty park for future generations.
Give Wildlife Space - It is great to enjoy the experience of seeing wild animals in their natural environment. However, view and photograph from afar to preserve their "wildness" and protect your safety. Wild animals are wild and can bite, charge, or attack you - keep your distance while observing them.
Never Feed Wild Animals - Even squirrels! Wild animals get enough nourishment from their normal diet. They do not need and should not eat your nut bar, bread, fruit, etc. It can make them sick and diminish a healthy fear of humans.
Stop to Listen - That awkward silence when you stop your conversations while hiking will be filled with the sounds of what is around you. Take time to listen to the river nearby; wind in the trees; birds chirping; crickets chirping. Often times, listening to what is around you allows you to spot wildlife you would normally pass by.
Wear Appropriate Clothes - Appropriate means you are comfortable to "exercise" and your outfit is appropriate for all audiences (families and kids are often out on the same trails). You will probably need at least a good pair of sneakers, if not sturdier hiking boots.
More tips to not be a jerk while hiking...
Keep your Music to Yourself. While many find it hard to disconnect from technology and the modern world, some come out into nature to enjoy the sounds and sights of what is in front of them. They may not share your affinity for your music or want to hear it for 5 miles of walking. Use headphones.
Share the View. When you get to that beautiful vista at the end of the trail (you know the one that is just perfect for your new Instagram profile pic), take in the sight and move on. If you are eating a picnic lunch before heading back, move to the side so fellow trail-goers can take in the view while you munch.
Almost There. On your way down, you might be tempted to encourage those on the way up to keep going. Resist the temptation to tell hikers on the way up that they are "almost there." Your perception of how far you really are from the end or top is skewed since you are now on the "easy" downhill return. If a hiker asks how much farther they have to go, try to be honest in your reply. They will appreciate the information and can accurately gauge whether they are fit or wish to continue onward.
Covid 19 Tips:
Social Distance - Most trails are not fit for social distancing when it comes to their width... i.e. they are narrower than 6 feet. Keep to the far right of the trail and step aside when those are trying to pass. Give people space. You will all get to the end of the trail.... have a little patience. If you can stretch your arm out and the other hiker stretch their arm out and you touch- you are too close.
Wear a mask! - Again most trails are not set up for social distancing when crowded. When you are passing others or in congested areas, where a mask. I know you are outside, but you are also closer than 6 feet away from your trail mates and probably breathing heavier than normal from climbing that hill.
Don't Trash Your Mask - Masks may be disposable, but that doesn't mean they should be left along a trail when you are done with them. If your mask needs to be trashed and there is no receptacle, take it with you until you find one. This goes for all trash... take it with you until you can use a trash can.
#hiking #nationalparks #explorenature #hikingtips #hikingetiquette #covid19 #sharingnature
Please share this article on your favorite social media platforms.
Copyright - Good Buddy and Mother Trucker - 2020
No comments:
Post a Comment