I keep seeing people skip the switchback on the west side of Mt. Rainier's Wonderland Trail.

I was up there last weekend and watched three separate groups cut straight up the slope, which is causing serious erosion and widening the trail. My buddy who works with the park service said they've had to re-route that section twice in the last five years because of it. What's the best way to politely remind other hikers to stay on the actual path when you see this happen?

4 comments

4 Comments

phoenix_martin401mo ago

I always say something like "Hey, the switchback is just over there and it really helps the trail last." Framing it as a helpful tip instead of a scold works way better in my experience. People usually feel bad and get back on the path right away.

nathankim18d ago

@the_alex that's a solid approach but you gotta be careful how you say it. Some people get real defensive when you point stuff out like that. Funny thing man, reminds me of this time I was hiking in the Olympics and this lady was cutting switchbacks real bad. I just kinda stood there and watched her go past, didn't say anything. Then I slipped on some loose gravel myself trying to take a shortcut later that day. Guess I learned my lesson too, ha. But yeah, friendly reminder seems like the way to go, especially if you bring up the trail maintenance costs. People don't always think about how much work goes into keeping those paths from washing out.

brian_taylor151mo ago

Yeah I do exactly what @phoenix_martin40 said, just a quick friendly heads up about the trail damage usually gets people back on track.

the_alex1mo ago

Ever try just asking them if they know they're causing damage? Like, point out the erosion and ask them to use the switchback.