Trail Etiquette & Leave No Trace

Group Hiking Handout

1. Trail Etiquette Basics

• Yielding Rules — Uphill hikers have the right of way; step aside safely when descending.
• Stay on the Trail — Avoid shortcuts and do not cut switchbacks; this prevents erosion.
• Keep Right, Pass Left — Announce politely when passing: “On your left.”
• Group Pace — Stay together at junctions; no one hikes alone.
• Noise Etiquette — Keep voices and music low; avoid speakers.
• Dog Etiquette — Leashes required on most WA trails; pack out dog waste.

2. Leave No Trace: The 7 Principles

i. Plan Ahead & Prepare

Check weather, trail conditions, and WTA updates.

Carry the 10 essentials and know your limits.

ii. Travel on Durable Surfaces

Stay on established trails, even when muddy.

Avoid stepping on vegetation or widening the trail.

iii. Dispose of Waste Properly

Pack out all trash, including tissues, fruit peels, and wrappers.

Use trailhead restrooms; if not available, follow cathole guidelines.

iv. Leave What You Find

Do not pick flowers, stack rocks, or carve into trees.

v. Minimize Campfire Impact

For day hikes, use stoves instead of fires when needed.

vi. Respect Wildlife

Observe from a distance; never feed animals.

vii. Be Considerate of Others

Share viewpoints, yield appropriately, and maintain a respectful trail presence.

3. Washington‑Specific Notes

• High‑traffic trails like Mailbox Peak are erosion‑sensitive—stay on trail.
• Weather changes quickly; pack layers and be prepared.
• Wildlife encounters are rare but possible—stay in groups and keep food secured.

5. Some references 

1. Hiking-101-1
2. hiking-101-part-3-hiking-safely-and-politely
3. Ten Essentials

4. Quick Group Reminder

Before we begin, please remember to follow trail etiquette: uphill hikers have right of way, we stay on the trail, and we keep noise low. We follow the Leave No Trace principles—plan ahead, stay on durable surfaces, pack out all waste, leave what you find, respect wildlife, and be considerate of others. Let’s enjoy the trail while protecting it for everyone who comes after us.

 -end-