Читать книгу Urban Trails: Sacramento - John Soares - Страница 16

Enhance your wilderness experience and those of other park users by practicing basic rules of trail etiquette. The one underlying rule: be courteous and always use common sense.

Observe the right of way. In some parks hikers share the path with cyclists and equestrians. Hikers are more mobile and should move off the trail to let cyclists and equestrians pass.

Move aside for horses. When you meet people on horseback, step off the trail to the downhill side whenever possible. If you must go to the uphill side, crouch down so you do not tower above the horses. Speak to the riders in a calm and normal voice. If you brought your dog, keep it under firm control at your side.

Stay on the trail. Do not shortcut trail switchbacks or create new trails, both of which cause erosion and can require expensive and time-consuming repairs.

Young mallards in William Land Park (Trail 3)

Follow the rules. Each park has specific rules for what is and isn’t allowed. Make sure you read the rules, which are usually posted prominently at trailheads and often at various points in the park. Typical rules govern which types of users can use which trails.

Keep your dog under control. Many of us love to bring the pooch when we hike. Make sure dogs are allowed and that you follow all rules, including leash rules. Even if dogs are allowed off-leash, you should always have a leash with you in case you need to keep your dog at your side or away from other dogs, animals, or people. Be considerate of others who may not want to interact with your dog. Finally, bring poop bags to collect your dog’s droppings and make sure you dispose of them properly.

Avoid disturbing wildlife. Observe animals and birds from a distance. This not only increases your safety, it also allows critters to engage in normal behavior and not have to react to your presence.

Take only photographs. Leave all natural and human features exactly as you found them.

Mind the noise. Neither the critters nor your fellow hikers want to hear your music, your shouts, or your loud voice. Keep your noise production way down and speak at a normal conversational volume.

Many of these guidelines were established by the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics. Visit https://lnt.org to learn more about best practices in the outdoors to minimize your effect on the environment and other trail users.