All kinds of travelers head to the backcountry to seek solitude, enjoy beautiful spaces, and immerse themselves in their favorite activities. While many of us choose to venture out in our trusted overland rigs, many head out on foot, horseback, or via motorcycle. And even if you don’t identify as an “overlander,” plenty of hikers and bikers are venturing out into the backcountry with their vehicle to access more remote trailheads. We want to make sure everyone is doing their part to be a good steward of wild spaces, and that includes honoring rules about right-of-way and safe travel. Here’s how you share the trail on your next backcountry adventure to keep everyone safe.
As a general rule, everyone yields to equestrians. Obviously, horses can spook, and while bikes and trucks can do unexpected things, they don’t literally have a mind of their own. So when you come upon horseback riders, be sure to stop, move to the side as much as possible, and give them plenty of room to pass by before starting on your way. Horse riders will often give verbal or hand cues as well to let you know if it’s safe to pass slowly or if they need additional space to maneuver around you safely.
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Then amongst other trail users, cyclists yield to hikers (unless it makes more sense for the hiker to step aside) and everyone yields to equestrians. It’s much easier to step off the trail than it is to maneuver a horse or bike, but it’s important to ride with the awareness that the trail may be in use by others and a hiker will get more injured by a cyclist riding into them than a cyclist being somehow hiked over. Typically, uphill hikers yield to those hiking downhill. Let’s be honest, if you’re hiking up, you probably don’t mind a quick break. In all of the situations, communication is key, and try to keep an open dialogue with other backcountry travelers when possible.
For those not in a motorized vehicle, be aware of wildlife that can potentially attack and follow proper protocol based on your region. For those in motorized vehicles, be aware of your speed and wildlife that may jump into the road or trail. Remember we aren’t just sharing the trail with fellow humans, but everyone who lives, hunts, and recreates outside regardless of species.
If you’re traveling in a motorized vehicle in an area that includes hikers, cyclists, and horseback riders, be sure to give everyone plenty of space and slow down. Even if you aren’t on a road that’s popular with other forms of backcountry travel, you’ll likely pass trailheads, or multiuse trails may cross your route. Travel at speeds that will allow you to stop or maneuver appropriately, plus you don’t want to dust out those traveling the same route. And if you are lucky enough to have a cooler of cold beverages, stopping on a hot day to offer a hiker or cyclist a cold soda can not only make their day, but change their relationship with overlanders forever.
While much of this may seem like common sense, a reminder of best practices is always helpful to keep everyone safe. Trail etiquette requires everyone, and in motorized vehicles, it can be easy to forget we are all on the same journey to find natural beauty, peace of mind, and a feeling of adventure in exploring new areas or revisiting roads and trails that change through the passing of time.
Overlanding is one of many ways we enjoy the outdoors, and Overland Expos have hundreds of brands to help us do it. Whether you’re car camping in your Subaru for a weekend of hiking and kayaking, bouldering in a lifted Jeep, or riding your bike down the Colorado Trail, our exhibitors and educators have products and classes to help you do it. Learn knot tying and backcountry first aid, or check out the latest camp kitchen gear and shelters. Our next Overland Expo takes place in Loveland, Colorado ,from August 22-24. Click the link below to learn more about Overland Expo Mountain West!
