We’re starting a new series – Trail Tip Tuesday! Today’s is about who has the right of way when a trail is open for hikers, bikers, and horseback riders.

You want to be mindful of other trail users, so it’s important to know when it’s your job to get out of the way. Essentially — cyclists and hikers get out of the way for horses, and cyclists also get out of the way for hikers.

Another element to consider – if you and your fellow trail user are both the same type (as in two hikers or two cyclists) and on an incline and there’s only room for one of you to pass, the rule is that whoever is going uphill has the right of way.

There are exceptions to the rules. Like if the person going uphill is out of breath (this has most definitely happened to me) and eager for a reason to take a break. If that’s the case, the uphill hiker should go ahead and step aside first. Or it could be that there’s a larger group going one direction or another, and it’s easier and better for the trail itself for the single hiker or cyclist to let the group pass.

If you are traveling in a group, say, of cyclists, and you notice a hiker has stopped and stepped out of your way, let them know how many are in your group or if you’re the last one. That way they know when to step back on the trail safely.

If you’re going to pass someone going the same direction, do so in a safe place for both of you and politely provide a verbal warning, like “on your left” or “behind you.”

Always treat the trails with respect as well as the others out there using them.