Make your presence known early
When approaching from behind, call out calmly from a distance: “Hi, passing on your left.” Don’t suddenly appear beside her.
A trail etiquette campaign
Be aBear
Women say they’d rather encounter a bear than an unknown man alone in the woods.
Don’t take it personally. Take it seriously.
Help women feel safer on the trail. Follow the Bear Code:
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Photo by Luca Bravo on Unsplash
Help women feel safer on the trail
The Bear Code
Small, respectful choices can make the outdoors feel more welcoming. Keep your presence predictable, respect personal space, and take your cues from the people around you.
Pass predictably
When letting someone pass, step into an open, visible spot. When passing, do it promptly rather than lingering beside her.
Give space
Don’t tailgate or match her pace from behind. Pass efficiently or drop well back. If she seems uneasy, create more distance.
Keep it friendly, not flirty
A brief hello or nod is fine. Keep it neutral, take your cue from her response, and move on without taking offense if she doesn’t engage.
Avoid personal questions
Don’t ask whether she’s alone, where she lives or is staying, or her exact route or schedule—even as casual conversation.
Assume competence
Skip comments about her gear, pace, body, or preparedness, and don’t offer advice unless asked. Speak up only for an immediate, specific hazard.
Be an ally
If someone is making a woman feel unsafe, step in to help. Create distance, offer to stay with her or help her reach other people, and call for help if needed. Follow her lead and don’t escalate.
Put the code where hikers will see it
Share it locally
01
Parks & trail networks
Ask park offices, land trusts, trail stewards, and municipal recreation departments about visitor centers, kiosks, and trailhead boards.
02
Outdoor shops
Offer a copy to local gear stores, outfitters, guide services, rental counters, and cafés that serve hikers.
03
Clubs & volunteer groups
Share it with hiking clubs, trail crews, meetup organizers, conservation groups, and search-and-rescue organizations.
04
Campuses & youth programs
Contact college outing clubs, recreation centers, summer camps, scout groups, and outdoor education programs.
05
Community spaces
Try libraries, community centers, climbing gyms, hostels, campgrounds, and neighborhood bulletin boards.
06
Your own group
Bring copies to group hikes and events, include the code in trip emails, or ask organizers to discuss it before setting out.
Help make the trail safer
Download, print, and share the Be a Bear poster.