The trails are crowded these days, and not everyone got the memo on how to share them like adults. Whether it's earbuds cranked so loud you can't hear approaching runners, dogs leaving unexpected "gifts" in the middle of the path, or folks mysteriously running the wrong direction, trail etiquette violations are alive and well—and they're ruining everyone else's run. Learn the eight fundamental rules that separate considerate trail runners from the chaos-causers, and help keep your public trails safe, clean, and enjoyable for the entire community.

We’re about a year into this COVID mess. You’d think the no-longer-new trail runners would have learned some etiquette by now, but I’m still leaping logs. No. I’m not talking about trees. I’m talking about those steamy piles of shutyomouth that dog owners leave petrifying in the middle of public trails. We all thought you’d be back on the treadmill by now. However, if we’re going to keep sharing this space, it’s time you learned THE RULES!

8 Rules of Etiquette When Running Public Trails

BE AWARE

It's just a good rule for every setting. On the trail, being aware means paying attention to your peripheral and noticing when others approach. This might mean turning the AirPods down a little.  

MAKE AWARE

With so many newbies on the trail, many are oblivious of the others around them. So, you might want to give them a heads up before completely startling them. This could be in the form of a "good morning" or an "on your left" as they, hopefully, stay to the right. 

MAKE ROOM

This is a shared space. We can't all stroll down the center. So, stay in your hypothetical lane or, at least, step aside (to the right) when somebody wants to pass. If you're with a running buddy, don't be these couples who insist on walking shoulder-to-shoulder while hijacking the trail from everyone else. Be prepared to fall in line. 

PICK UP YOUR POOP

When we say "your," we mean your dog's. Otherwise, we have much bigger problems. If you find yourself without a bag or scooper, at least lead Fido off the running trail to do his business. 

RUN THE MARKED DIRECTION

Some trail loops clearly mark the start, end, and flow of traffic. For whatever reason, that doesn't stop people from running the opposite direction and causing unnecessary face-to-face encounters. Many don't even realize they're running the wrong way... which goes back to the earlier "be aware" rule. If all of the signs and trail markings face the opposite direction, they're not turned backwards. You are! 

DON'T TOUCH THINGS

This is for your own safety as much as others. Sure, benches are enticing and sometimes a must. However, the outdoors have the potential to be the safest place to escape sickness. Don't take unnecessary risks. 

DON'T RUN WHEN YOU'RE SICK

If you've got the crud and think there's even a chance you're contagious, STAY HOME! 

DON'T LEAVE YOUR MASK

This isn't a commentary on whether you should wear a mask or not. Some locales will require it. Other's won't. That said, leaving your mask on the trail is unacceptable. We'd rather pick up your dog's poop than picking up a used and potentially contaminated face mask. Just being real.

Sorry to be the heavy, but not all rules are made to be broken. There are other unspoken rules practiced by seasoned trail runners, but these are some basics that'll make everyone's trail running experience a little more enjoyable.