MTB Trail Etiquette: The Unwritten Rules Every Rider Should Know

Whether you're new to mountain biking or a seasoned rider, understanding trail etiquette is key to keeping the ride fun, safe, and respectful for everyone. In this post, I break down the essential do’s and don’ts of the trail—from who yields to whom, to how to pass, when to say something, and how to avoid being that guy. These simple rules help keep the trails flowing and the vibes good.

6/22/20252 min read

Trail rules every mountain biker should know and follow
Trail rules every mountain biker should know and follow

MTB Trail Etiquette: What Every Rider Should Know

Intro
There’s one thing that matters more than how good you are on a bike—and that’s how you act on the trail. I’ve been riding for over 25 years, and I’ve seen fights, sketchy crashes, and straight-up chaos caused by riders not following basic trail etiquette. So let’s break it down. Here’s what every rider should know to avoid ruining the trails—or the vibe.

1. Yielding Rules
Trail priority is a big one, and a lot of newer riders just haven’t been taught. So here it is:

  • Always yield to riders coming uphill. They’re working harder, and it’s safer for everyone if they keep momentum.

  • Yield to hikers and horses. We all share the space.

  • Horses especially—they’re flight animals and can get spooked easily. If you come up on one, slow down, stop, and speak calmly to the rider so the horse knows you’re human.

2. Passing Right
Passing is another spot where things can go sideways.

  • Announce yourself clearly: say “On your left” or “Can I pass when you’re ready?”

  • Never pass silently or buzz someone closely. It can freak people out, and it’s just plain rude.

I’ve seen riders yell after being startled, and I’ve seen fights almost break out over close passes. Don’t be that guy.

3. Dangerous Behavior
This section might save someone’s life.

  • Never stop on jumps or blind sections of trail. It sounds obvious, but it happens more than you’d think. People have been seriously hurt hitting someone standing on a lip.

  • Ride in control. There’s no prize for speed if you can’t handle it.

  • Don’t skid corners just to look cool. You’re not Sam Pilgrim, and even if you were, he doesn’t roost every corner on public trails.

4. Conditions & Trail Respect
Be smart about when and where you ride.

  • Don’t ride wet or muddy trails. You’re not just getting dirty—you’re damaging the trail and making work for volunteers.

  • Leave no trace. Pack it in, pack it out. Snack wrappers, tube boxes, whatever—take it with you.

5. Headphones Rant
Let’s talk about headphones.

At Summit Bike Park, I watched a guy almost get flattened because he had both earbuds in and zero awareness of riders calling out behind him. Total chaos.

Headphones on the trail = no awareness. That’s dangerous for you and everyone else.

Here’s the real talk: You don’t need a soundtrack. The trail is the soundtrack. Listen to your tires, your breathing, the wind, the birds. That’s mountain biking.

Final Thoughts
Trail etiquette isn’t about rules to follow because someone said so. It’s about keeping the sport fun and safe for everyone. Share the trail, ride smart, and set an example. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned shredder, how you ride affects all of us.