JACKSON, Wyo. — Summer is in full swing in Jackson Hole. For many, that means exploring the vast networks of trail systems by foot, bike or horse. Bridger-Teton National Forest (BTNF) advises following these tips for sharing the trails this summer.

Many trails are multi-use, shared with hikers, bikers, horseback riders and off-highway vehicles. BTNF says a basic rule to follow is, “Wheels yield to heels,” meaning bicyclists or motorized vehicles yield to all other users while hikers yield to horseback riders.

Hikers, walkers and backpackers

  • Move off the trail whenever possible for other trail users.
  • Hikers going uphill have the right of way. On occasion, an uphill hiker might let others come downhill while they take a breather, but remember, that’s the uphill hiker’s call.
  • When hiking in a group, hike single-file, never taking up more than half the trail, and stay on the trail itself. Over time, off-trail use can badly erode switchbacks and destroy drainage diversions.
  • When a group meets a single hiker, it’s generally preferable for the single hiker to yield and step safely to the side.
  • When meeting someone riding a horse, step off the trail to the downhill side and speak calmly. That allows the horse to recognize a human.
  • Dogs can potentially frighten horses. Be sure to keep dogs quiet, close and still when sharing a trail with horseback riders.
  • Keep dogs on the trail and be sure to clean up after them. Do not let them disturb wildlife.
  • Avoid spreading seeds. Noxious weeds threaten ecosystems. Stay on the trail and check socks for hitchhikers when back to the trailhead.

Mountain bikers and cyclists

  • Bicyclists must yield to other non-motorized trail users, unless the trail is clearly signed for bike-only travel. Bicyclists traveling downhill yield to bikes headed uphill unless the trail is clearly signed for one-way or downhill-only traffic.
  • Move aside for less mobile users, including hikers and horseback riders.
  • Stay on the trail.
  • Do not ride through streams.
  • Make presence known at corners or blind spots.
  • Keep bicycles under control.
  • Call out the number of bikers following when passing another group.
  • Bikes should never pass a horse from behind. Call out to pass, so the rider can turn the horse around to face the bike. When a horse is coming, bikers should stop, move to the downhill side of the trail and say “hello.”  If the animal appears anxious, bikers should consider taking off backpacks or helmets and dismounting bikes.

Equestrians

  • Practice minimum impact techniques.
  • Always clean up after the horse.
  • Keep horses in campsites only long enough to unpack or pack them.
  • Stock tied to trees ruins trees and turf. Do so only for a short time, and use tie lines.
  • Never tie horses within 200 feet of lakes, streams or springs.

ATVs, motor vehicles, electric bicycles, off-highway vehicles

  • Approach pedestrians slowly, pull over and turn the engine off.
  • When passing someone, follow at a safe distance until reaching a safe place to pass, and pass slowly.
  • Do not ride on areas that are wet or have loose soil, steep slopes, meadows or swamps.
  • Motorized vehicle riders should stop their vehicle, turn off the engine and let horseback riders pass. Additionally, motorized users should allow the horses to move a considerable distance down the trail before starting the engine back up.

During hunting season

  • Hikers should wear at least one article of hunter orange viewable from all directions such as a hat, jacket or vest. Cover backpacks with orange.
  • Horseback riders should wear a hunter orange vest and helmet cover. Use a hunter orange vest or rump sheet on horses.
  • Dogs should wear a vest, leash, coat, shirt or bandana of hunter orange or another visible color.

Remember, everyone is out there for the same reason: to get outside and enjoy nature.