In this episode of the I Don’t Know Running Podcast, Lewis and Mitch dive into the unspoken (and sometimes ignored) rules of trail running. From yielding to uphill runners and bikers, to respecting horses, hikers, and even wildlife, we unpack what it means to be a good steward of the trails.
We also share stories of surprising encounters, muddy mistakes, headphone mishaps, and why respecting closures is so important for preserving the spaces we love. Whether you’re a seasoned ultrarunner or just hitting the dirt for the first time, these trail etiquette tips will help you stay safe, show respect, and keep the running community strong.
👉 Topics we cover:
Yielding: who goes first (uphill runners, hikers, equestrian, bikers)
Passing safely and avoiding surprises on singletrack
Headphone and dog etiquette on the trails
Protecting trails from erosion and respecting closures
Practicing Leave No Trace and giving back to the trail community
📢 Share in the comments: What trail etiquette rules drive you crazy—or which ones do you wish more people followed?
Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share to support the show. You can also connect with us on Facebook, Spotify, and Patreon to keep the conversation going.
Check out our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/IDKR
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