Trail Etiquette
Trail etiquette should be a major part of any trail users experience.
Trail etiquette can be described as the polite way to use trails. When traveling multi-use trails, you may encounter many different forms of trail use, such as hikers, bikers, horse back riders, snowmobilers, etc. Therefore the user must adjust to different regulations.
Basically, you must follow the same rules as on the road: stay on the right, pass on the left, don’t have your group hog the width of the trail and call out or ring your bell before passing so those ahead have fair warning.
Trail User’s Guide to Environmental Awareness
- Do not litter. What you carried in, you can carry out. And if you have room, pick up what others have carelessly left behind.
- Do not smoke while using the trail – or use designated areas. Be careful to butt out, completely. You don’t want to be responsible for a forest fire.
Simply Put:
- Give the right-of-way to smaller and slower users.
- Stay right when approaching oncoming users.
- Stay on the trail surface.
- Obey signs.
- Do not climb fences or take shortcuts.
- Respect the privacy of landowners bordering the trails.
- Leave wildlife and plants for others to enjoy.
- Take only memories – leave only footprints!
A Trail User’s Guide to Public Awareness
- Be friendly towards other trail users. Stop, speak, answer questions: whatever it takes to present a good image of all trail users.
- Consider the weather and type of trail you are trekking and make sure to wear the appropriate attire.
- Confine alcohol use to your camp area (if alcohol and drugs are not completely prohibited).
- Respect private property. Get permission from landowners to use their land. Leave gates as you find them and don’t bother livestock. Never cut fences.
- It is recommended that all equestrian and motorized trail users carry third party liability insurance.
- Any equestrian or motorized vehicle user under the age of 16 should be accompanied by an adult.
Connect With Us
The next issue of SaskTrails Explorer is coming in early June, and we’re excited to start sharing a few previews of what’s inside. In the upcoming issue, readers will discover stories from across Saskatchewan that highlight the people, places and partnerships helping trails grow and thrive. All Sask Trails members receive the magazine directly by email, so now is a great time to become a member and make sure you don’t miss it. Stay tuned for story highlights in the weeks ahead.