When walking on a trail/footpath, stay to the right. When walking on a road shared with cars and bikes (e.g., Mount Pleasant Cemetery, Toronto) stay to the left, even if it’s not busy.
It’s often a good idea to hold your poles still when encountering dogs. Some are afraid of swinging arms with poles, and they may react badly.
When going up or down a staircase with Nordic walking poles, put both poles in one hand and hold the railing with your other hand (or hover your hand over it if you’re moving fast). In the event of a stumble, your railing hand will stabilize you or you’ll have a hand free to grab the railing.
When walkers who are going uphill meet walkers coming downhill on a narrow trail, those climbing uphill have the right of way. Walkers coming downhill should stop and step aside to allow for passing.
When passing other walkers travelling the same direction on a narrow trail, call out, “Passing on your left please,” or something similar. Walkers being passed should step as far to the side as possible.
Never swing the tips of your poles up in the air behind you (for example, if you’re crossing a road to re-enter a trail). They may be a hazard to the person walking behind you. Instead, keep your poles vertical until you can resume your Nordic walking technique.
Be friendly and courteous to other walkers! Smiles, “good mornings” and light chitchat as you pass others help to brighten everyone’s day.
Respect the peace and quiet of nature and the privacy of people living along any trail. If you’re a big group, it’s early morning, and/or you’re a naturally loud talker, keep your voice low.
Leave nature in its place. Flowers, plants, pinecones, rocks and sticks all provide habitats and/or nourishment for wildlife.
Leave no trace of your visit. Did you know it takes up to two years for an orange peel to decompose?
Leave the trail cleaner than when you found it. If possible, take along a plastic bag to collect garbage you encounter.
Observe wild animals from a distance and, of course, never feed them.
Happy poling!
Nordic Walking/Hiking Etiquette: 12 Rules to Keep in Mind
