SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/hike-yield-horses

When you meet horses or pack mules on a trail, what should you do?

Step to the downhill side of the trail and let them pass.

Start playing free

  1. Step to the downhill side of the trail ✔
  2. Step to the uphill side of the trail
  3. Keep walking, they will go around you

Why: Hikers yield to horses and pack animals. Leave No Trace says to step to the downhill side of the trail when you meet pack stock.

Huh, didn't know that: Leave No Trace also asks hikers to take breaks and camp away from trails and other visitors.

The dad joke
Why did the horse stop on the trail? It wanted to say neigh to the hikers.
Like this card?
Play the game

References

Answer: Step to the downhill side of the trail. Hikers yield to horses and pack animals. Leave No Trace says to step to the downhill side of the trail when you meet pack stock.

  1. NPS: Leave No Trace Seven Principles www.nps.gov/articles/leave-no-trace-seven-principles.htm
    Step to the downhill side of the trail when encountering pack stock.
    Checked 2026-10-12.

Think this answer is wrong? Tap "Challenge this answer" on the card in the game and tell us why.

Test yourself in the game

Outdoors & CampingWho has the right of way when two hikers meet on a steep trail?Outdoors & CampingWhich group first came up with the Ten Essentials packing system for hikers?Outdoors & CampingWhy does the Park Service recommend a headlamp over a regular flashlight for hiking?

That's stuff everyone should know.