If you hike around the Phoenix area long enough, especially on popular multi use trails, you will eventually run into that awkward moment where two groups meet on a narrow stretch of desert singletrack. So who actually has the right of way?

On most shared use trails, horses have the right of way over both hikers and mountain bikers. Horses can be easily startled, especially on tight desert trails with blind corners and loose rock.

If you are hiking or biking and see a horse approaching, step off the trail on the downhill side if possible, speak calmly so the rider knows you are there, and avoid sudden movements.

In general, mountain bikers yield to hikers. Bikes move faster and can stop and restart more easily than a hiker can react to a sudden approach.

That said, courtesy goes both ways. Hikers should stay alert, avoid blocking the entire trail when in groups, and acknowledge bikers when they are yielding.

The general rule is that downhill traffic yields to uphill traffic. Climbers are working harder, have a narrower field of vision, and may have limited safe stopping points on steep terrain.

On busy Phoenix trails like Camelback or Piestewa, this rule helps keep traffic flowing and reduces frustration on steep sections.

Trail right of way rules are meant to keep everyone s

afe, but attitude matters just as much as policy. Slow down around blind corners, keep your music low, leash your dogs, and assume others may not know the rules.

With more people enjoying our desert trails every year, a little courtesy goes a long way in keeping the Phoenix hiking community friendly and safe.