1. Prepare Yourself
Be sure you're ready both physically and mentally before you go hiking. Know your limitations and be realistic about your ability to cope with unforeseen circumstances such as an injury. Take a map with you in case the trail you're on is damaged or you encounter unexpected differences in the terrain. Carry a backpack with enough food and water to keep you supplied for the duration of your hike and make someone aware of your route and expected return time. Take a hiking partner with you, if possible.
2. Be Neighborly
Stay on marked trails when you hike to avoid damaging plant life. Walk in single file on trails and remember that people walking uphill always have the right of way. Allow these hikers room to pass when necessary. Leave plenty of space between yourself and other hikers unless you need to pass them. Don't disturb other hikers by being too loud. Keep in mind that most people enjoy peace and quiet in the outdoors and be respectful of that.
3. Leave the Trail in Good Shape
Carry out trash that you accumulate on your hike and collect any garbage left behind by other, less conscientious hikers. You should bury any solid body waste at least 6 inches deep, well away from the trail. Either burn your used tissue or carry it out as trash. Contact your local park service for regulations regarding fires.
4. Show the Locals Some Respect
When you hike in an area that contains wildlife, give the animals plenty of space. You can watch them from a distance, but you should never approach or feed wild animals. Also, your dog may be better left at home if he likes to chase other animals or if he intimidates people by barking at them or approaching them aggressively. Even if your dog is well mannered, you should keep him on a leash when you hike.
5. Clean up Properly
You can wash yourself and any dishes or clothes you bring on your hike by transporting water from a natural source, such as a lake or a river that's at least 200 feet away and doing your washing there. Use as little soap as possible to get the job done and always use a biodegradable type. Spread the used water over the ground once you clean it up a little by straining any food particles out of it.
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