A good hike can be good for so many things. You get in a good workout. You get to see nature. You can ignore phone calls because “you must’ve been out of range.” But while most people get it when it comes to trail etiquette, some (like that jerk who blasts his music rather than wearing headphones) need a helpful reminder now and then.

One of the most common trail questions is also one of the easiest:

Who has the right of way when hiking?

The simple rule: uphill hikers have the right of way

In general, hikers heading uphill have the right of way. It’s the standard etiquette on most trails, and it’s also the rule that makes the most sense.

• Uphill hiking is harder, and stopping breaks momentum.
• Uphill hikers often have less visibility (they’re staring into the slope, not down the trail).
• Downhill hikers can usually step aside more safely and with better sightlines.

If you’re hiking uphill and you want to step aside for a quick breather, great. Just know you’re doing it by choice, not because you’re supposed to.

Yielding is not a personal attack

If someone steps aside for you, a quick “thanks” goes a long way. If you’re the one yielding, no need for the dramatic sighing and eye-rolling. Everyone’s just trying to enjoy the trail without turning it into a passive-aggressive standoff.

Other right-of-way rules worth knowing

Horses always have the right of way

If you encounter horseback riders, yield to the horse. Step off the trail when it’s safe (often the downhill side is recommended), stay calm, and speak normally so the horse knows you’re a person and not a desert monster.

Mountain bikes: usually yield to hikers, but use common sense

General etiquette is:

• Bikes yield to hikers
• Bikes yield to horses
• Hikers yield to horses

That said, every trail is different. Visibility, speed, and space matter. Make eye contact, communicate, and don’t play chicken on a narrow section because you think you’re “technically right.” Being right doesn’t heal broken bones.

Passing someone without being weird

If you need to pass, keep it simple:

• Say “hello,” “excuse me,” or “on your left.”
• Don’t silently hover behind someone like a horror movie extra.
• Don’t shout “COMING THROUGH” like you’re directing airport traffic.

Final note

Trail etiquette isn’t complicated. Be aware, be considerate, and don’t act like you own the mountain. If everyone follows a few basic rules, the trails stay fun for everyone.

Want the full etiquette breakdown? REI has a solid guide here: Trail Etiquette: Who Has the Right of Way?