TRAIL ETIQUETTE FOR MODERN OVERLANDERS

Learn the Tips, Tricks, Etiquette, and Protocols for Overlanding Today

By Del Albright
Sustainable Motorized Recreation Advocate | delalbright.com

Why Etiquette Matters on the Trail

Good trail etiquette isn’t about being fancy—it’s about being smart, safe, and sustainable. Whether you’re overlanding solo or leading a convoy of rigs, how you act on the trail impacts not just your experience, but also trail access, land use policy, and the reputation of our entire community.

Overlanding today sits at the intersection of adventure travel, outdoor sport, and immersive recreational experience. Despite a recent sales contraction, the sector remains larger than it was pre-2020, fueled by innovations in gear, inclusivity, and hybrid/EV vehicle technology. Expos attract tens of thousands, and the online community continues to flourish.

Overlanding exploring has become so popular that places like Death Valley National Park have introduced new camping passes for dispersed (non-campground) camping by vans and SUV overlanders.

For businesses, this translates to continued demand for specialized vehicles, upgradable gear, community events, guided services, and tech-enabled solutions. As overlanders range from modest-budget weekenders to high-end expedition travelers, there’s space for brands across price points—provided they focus on authenticity, preparedness, and journeys that prioritize discovery.

To keep this adventure alive, we all need to focus on trail etiquette. Here are some tips.

Top 10 Trail Etiquette Tips for Overlanders

1. Yield Right of Way

Uphill traffic has the right of way
Bikes yield to all; rigs yield to horses and hikers
Smaller convoys yield to larger groups
Don’t driver over vegetation when trying to yield
When in doubt, communicate and be courteous

2. Signal Your Group Size

Hold up fingers to show how many rigs are behind you
Last driver holds up a closed fist (zero behind)
Keeps trail users aware and safe, especially in narrow zones

3. Stay on the Trail

Don’t widen trails or make bypasses
Avoid driving off-route, even to pass or turn around
Tread Lightly principles apply

4. Mind Your Speed

Slow is smooth, and smooth is fast
Dust out other groups = bad form
Fast driving near camps or hikers is a no-go

5. Radio and Comms Protocol

Use CB, GMRS, or HAM responsibly
Keep chatter short and relevant when others are nearby
Share info like: obstacles ahead, stops, turnoffs, or wildlife

6. Pack It In, Pack It Out

Take everything you brought
Pick up litter—even if it’s not yours
Respect means leaving places cleaner than you found them

7. No Trail Hogging

Stop off the trail for photos or regrouping
Don’t block intersections, gates, or spurs
Use wide spots or pullouts

8. Respect Camps and Quiet Zones

No revving engines near campsites
Be aware of generators and loud music
Drones? Ask before flying near people

9. Practice Recovery Courtesy

Help when you can, but don’t make a mess
Don’t dig up the trail or strip vegetation
Use tree-savers and avoid resource damage
Share recovery gear tips and teach those who are learning

10. Represent the Community

Every overlander is an ambassador
Your attitude sets the tone for how land managers and the public view us
Set the example others want to follow

Bonus: Group Trail Management Tips

Appoint a trail leader and a tail gunner
Keep spacing safe and visible
Set expectations at the drivers’ meeting
Stick to comms etiquette
Use hand signals for backup when radios are out
Practice “stop at turns” and wait for the next rig when in convoys so no one gets lost

Want More?

Check out these related resources:

Del’s Book on Landuse and Volunteerism

The trails we love are only as strong as the community that stewards them. Let’s ride with respect, share knowledge, and keep access alive.

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