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Hiking culture has its own etiquette and norms, which include certain practices that other hikers will assume you know, understand, and follow. Following this etiquette will help you better share the trail.

•Hikers headed downhill yield to hikers climbing uphill. Hikers working their way uphill are focused on that effort, while those going down are better positioned to step aside for those headed up.

•Slower hikers yield to faster hikers. There is no wrong pace for a hike, but hikers taking the slow approach need to be aware of those coming up behind them to avoid creating a traffic jam on narrow trails.

•It is customary to give a simple greeting to other hikers you encounter on the trail, as long as a trail isn’t flooded with people.

•Be aware that your voice could cover a great distance and disturb wildlife and people you may not be able to see. Sound can carry a long way in forests and wild areas, especially across lakes. You don’t need to speak only in hushed, reverent whispers—speaking at normal tones and volume levels is just fine. Avoid shouting, especially around lakes or open areas where there are fewer trees to muffle the sound.

Calypso orchid (Hike 42)

For those venturing out on their first few hikes, these simple guidelines will quickly become second nature as you encounter other hikers on the trail. If for some reason you find that you’ve forgotten what you’re supposed to do, just be courteous—hikers are a friendly and forgiving bunch. You’ll get the hang of it in no time.