Australia's trail networks are shared spaces where runners, hikers, mountain bikers, horse riders, and dog walkers all have the right to enjoy nature. As trail running grows in popularity, it's increasingly important that we conduct ourselves in ways that preserve access, protect the environment, and ensure positive experiences for everyone.
Good trail etiquette isn't just about following rules—it's about being a thoughtful member of a community that shares a love for the outdoors. By demonstrating respect and consideration, we help ensure trails remain open and welcoming for all users.
Yielding Right of Way
Understanding who yields to whom prevents awkward trail encounters and keeps everyone safe. The general hierarchy in Australia follows these principles:
- Everyone yields to horses: Horses can be unpredictable when startled. Stop well before reaching them, speak calmly so the horse knows you're human (not a predator), and wait for the rider to indicate it's safe to pass.
- Runners yield to hikers: As the faster party, we're better equipped to stop and restart. Hikers carrying heavy packs or navigating technical terrain have less manoeuvrability.
- Downhill yields to uphill: Runners or hikers coming uphill are working harder and have more limited visibility. Maintaining their rhythm on a climb is also important for efficiency.
- Bikes and runners negotiate: This depends on the trail. On dedicated MTB trails, runners should yield. On shared multi-use trails, whoever can more easily step aside should do so.
That said, etiquette is about courtesy, not rigid rules. If yielding is easier for you regardless of who technically has right of way, do so with a smile.
Passing Safely
How you approach and pass other trail users matters enormously for their experience and safety.
Verbal Communication
Always announce your presence before passing. A friendly "Coming through on your left" gives people time to prepare and indicates which side you'll pass on. Avoid startling people from behind—being suddenly overtaken by a panting runner can be genuinely frightening.
When approaching from behind, slow your pace and call out while you're still several metres back. Wait for acknowledgment before passing. A simple "Thanks!" as you go by maintains positive relationships between different trail user groups.
Many hikers wear earphones or hearing aids that affect their ability to hear approaching runners. If someone doesn't respond to your verbal call, try a gentle tap on the shoulder or step into their peripheral vision before passing.
Passing Space
Give other users as much space as possible when passing. On narrow single-track, this might mean slowing to walking pace until there's room to pass safely. Never force someone off the trail or brush past uncomfortably close.
Group Running Etiquette
Running in groups is wonderful for motivation and safety, but requires extra consideration for other trail users.
- Run single file on single track: Don't spread across the trail, forcing others to navigate around your group
- Keep conversation volumes reasonable: Loud groups can disturb wildlife and other users seeking peaceful nature experiences
- Regroup at junctions, not on narrow sections: Stopping en masse on single track blocks the trail for everyone
- Communicate as a group: When passing, let approaching users know how many are in your group ("Six more behind me")
Environmental Responsibility
As trail users, we have a responsibility to protect the environments we enjoy. Leave No Trace principles apply to trail runners just as much as campers and hikers.
Stay on Established Trails
Trail braiding—where multiple parallel paths develop because users cut corners or avoid muddy sections—causes significant environmental damage. It widens the trail's footprint, increases erosion, and destroys vegetation. Run through the mud if necessary; it washes off, but the damage from new paths doesn't.
Similarly, resist the temptation to create shortcuts on switchbacks. These trails are designed with switchbacks to manage grades and erosion. Cutting corners accelerates deterioration and can destabilise slopes.
- Stay on designated trails at all times
- Pack out everything you bring in—including gel wrappers
- Dispose of human waste properly (dig a cat hole 200m from water sources)
- Respect wildlife—observe from distance, never feed animals
- Be considerate of other visitors
Rubbish and Waste
Pack out everything you bring onto the trail. Gel wrappers, empty flasks, and discarded tape all constitute litter. Use your vest pockets to store waste until you reach a bin. Many runners carry a small plastic bag specifically for rubbish.
If you see rubbish left by others, pick it up if you can safely carry it out. We all benefit when trails are kept pristine, and taking responsibility for more than just our own mess makes a meaningful difference.
Wildlife Considerations
Australian trails take us through habitats that countless species call home. Being a good guest in their environment protects both wildlife and ourselves.
Maintaining Distance
Observe wildlife from a distance without approaching, pursuing, or trying to attract their attention. Running toward animals for photos or closer viewing stresses them and can provoke defensive behaviours. Keep moving and enjoy brief glimpses as you pass.
Sensitive Times and Areas
Some areas may have seasonal closures to protect breeding wildlife. Respect these closures even if enforcement is limited. Dawn and dusk—prime running times—are also peak activity periods for many Australian animals. Be especially aware and prepared for wildlife encounters during these times.
Dogs on Trail
If running with a dog, keep them on leash in areas where required. Even well-trained dogs can chase wildlife, damage vegetation off-trail, and frighten other trail users. Always clean up after your dog—carrying waste bags is non-negotiable.
Trail Preservation
Running during or immediately after heavy rain causes disproportionate trail damage. Wet soil is easily eroded and compacted, and footprints can create ruts that worsen with each subsequent rain event. If trails are saturated, consider a road run instead and return when conditions improve.
Similarly, stay off trails when fire or land management agencies have closed them for maintenance, repair, or safety reasons. These closures exist for good reasons, even when they're inconvenient for our training plans.
Race Day Etiquette
Trail races bring large numbers of runners through areas that normally see light use. Extra consideration is warranted:
- Follow race rules: They exist to protect trails and maintain relationships with land managers
- Be patient with non-racing trail users: They have as much right to be there as you do, even on race day
- Respect private property: Just because a course crosses private land doesn't give you licence to leave the marked route
- Thank volunteers and marshals: They make the event possible
- Report any environmental damage you observe: Race directors need to know to address problems and maintain access for future events
Trail access is a privilege, not a right. Negative interactions between runners and other users, or environmental damage from our activities, can result in trail closures or restrictions. Every runner is an ambassador for the sport.
Building Community
Beyond avoiding negative behaviours, actively positive interactions strengthen the trail community. Simple gestures make a difference:
- Greet other trail users with a smile and hello
- Offer assistance to anyone who seems lost or in difficulty
- Share information about trail conditions with those heading the opposite direction
- Participate in trail maintenance days organised by local running or bushwalking clubs
- Report trail damage or hazards to relevant land managers
The trail running community in Australia is generally welcoming and supportive. By modelling excellent etiquette, we reinforce these positive norms and ensure our trails remain places where everyone feels welcome.
Trail etiquette ultimately comes down to awareness and consideration. Pay attention to your surroundings, think about how your actions affect others and the environment, and err on the side of courtesy. These simple principles ensure that our trails remain special places for generations of runners to come.