The hiking code
Depending on where your hiking there’s a few simple dos and don’ts. These are not so much rules, but more “hiking code” and nice to knows.
- Hike within your comfort limit. Sure, its ok to challenge yourself, but know how much you can do before setting off on a hike.
- Wear suitable clothing and use the correct equipment with every hike.
- Be familiar with basic navigation. Understanding basic map and compass is necessary when hiking in poor weather, unfamiliar terrain or multi day hikes. Make sure your appropriately equipped (knowledgeable) for the challenge ahead and have some form of experience to back it up.
- Be prepared. Time of day, weather and fitness, all play a big part in choosing the right hike.
- As a curtesy, when passing other hikers stay to the right, pass on the left. Try to past someone on the left-hand side. This only works if other know the hiking code also.
- Always be friendly to others. This can be something simple as a nod of the head or a hello or even small talk.
- Think about others around you when using your phone. They might not want to appear in the photo or video. Don’t block any path’s just to get the perfect shot. In certain areas where peace and quiet is available, try not to use your phone too loud.
- Leave no trace behind. Clean up after yourself either wild camping or just a casual stroll along a trail.
- It is your responsibility to adhere to the rules and regulations of any National Park policies. Even if you do not agree with them (example – dogs on leads etc) it is always respectful to adhere to.
- Find out about the legal issues of wild camping. In Scotland it’s free to roam, but England is still a grey area. Be familiar with specific areas such as Lake District, Dartmoor and others.
- Try and be respectful to local businesses. Local businesses in the National Park areas need the support of tourism. This does not mean you have to buy from them, but a courtesy loaf of bread or a coffee in the local shop go along way.
- There is no ban on alcohol in National Parks, but please be mindful of a huge party gathering or wild camping can make a massive impact with rubbish and behaviour.