Outdoor Travel Rules for Hiking
Rule 1: Downhill yields to uphill
This means those descending should yield to those ascending. Generally, climbing uphill is more tiring, while descending requires stability. By yielding, downhill hikers can also maintain better balance.
Rule 2: Heavier loads yield to lighter loads, slower hikers yield to faster ones
On narrow mountain trails, those carrying heavy loads or moving slowly should proactively make way. While yielding, they can also take a short rest and adjust their pace.
Rule 3: Yield the trail when resting
On the trail, newcomers often stop in place while resting, blocking the path and affecting the progress of hikers in both directions.
Rule 4: Minimize conversation on steep descents
During descents, after hours of activity, team members become more familiar and may engage in more conversation. However, talking can distract attention, increasing the risk of slipping or falling on steep sections.
Rule 5: Increase rest frequency, shorten rest duration
For many novice hikers, fatigue is common during the first outing, and they may want to rest for long periods to recover energy. This is not advisable. Long rests, especially sitting, allow the body to cool down, making it harder to resume hiking and requiring more energy to regain momentum.
The following are additional guidelines
Rule 6: Don’t admire the view while hiking, and don’t hike while admiring the view (suggested by Fan of Steamed Scallops)
Most hikers carry cameras, or at least use their phones to take photos. Taking photos provides a moment to rest and adjust while enjoying the scenery—a win-win. Even if you’re not taking pictures, pause to admire the view for safety and to regulate your pace.
Rule 7: Never run downhill (suggested by Old Seal)
Descending puts significant strain on the knees—about six times your body weight on flat ground. Running increases this impact far beyond six times. Additionally, many trails have loose rocks, increasing the risk of losing balance and falling. Moreover, by the time you’re descending, your energy is often depleted, and running makes it harder to stop, potentially leading to accidents.
Rule 8: Slow down and yield on narrow, dangerous sections (suggested by Old Fox of the Western Regions)
On rugged mountain trails or dilapidated sections of the Great Wall, slow down and yield to others on narrow or hazardous paths to avoid congestion or collisions that could cause accidents.
Rule 9: Use your backpack straps wisely to free your hands
Many novice hikers don’t use backpacks properly, or their waist and chest straps aren’t tightened—some women even skip the chest strap entirely. Properly adjusting the shoulder, chest, and waist straps distributes the load better, making heavy packs feel less burdensome. Avoid carrying anything else in your hands besides trekking poles to stay prepared for emergencies.
Rule 10: Use trekking poles and knee pads when possible
As everyone knows, trekking poles save energy, especially on gentle slopes, muddy, or snowy terrain. Always use two poles and secure the wrist straps. When not in use on flat ground or roads, either stow them or point the tips forward to avoid injuring those behind. Knee pads with spring support are recommended—choose based on your needs, whether from premium brands or domestic alternatives.
Rule 11: Maintain safe spacing while hiking (suggested by Sky of Metasequoia)
Keep a 3–5 meter gap between hikers to prevent injuries from falling rocks or trips, especially when using trekking poles. This distance also protects the person behind from being hit by branches whipped back by the hiker ahead.
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