There are several things to remember when encountering horses or mules in the mountains.

First, give them plenty of room. It's safer for you and the animal to stand or sit off the trail, on the uphill side of the trail, so that they can see you and not be startled by your presence. If you stand on the down-hill side of the trail and the animal gets startled by one of the things mentioned below, it might give you a little accidental nudge or push off down slope or over a cliff. Stand still and quiet. Get it?

Many things can startle or "spook" a four-legged critter:

Loud or unexpected noises--don't yell around them or blow whistles.

Quick or unexpected movements--inquisitive children, running animals, birds rustling in the underbrush, etc. Do not wave your hat or arms at them, or start leaping around, unless you want to start an instant rodeo with you in the middle. Stand still until the entire pack string has passed your position.

Things in unusual combinations--Hikers with very large backpacks - which might make you appear to the mule as something alien they need to worry about.

Highly contrasting or reflective surfaces--A light colored tread near dark soil, freshly cut logs, black or white rocks, or a manmade object in a natural setting.

Wild animals or unfamiliar domestic animals--Mountain lions, coyotes, llamas, rattlesnakes, and domestic dogs (keep rover on a leash and quiet - some breeds of dog can get really excited around large mammals).

Narrow or constricted spaces--Bridges, gates, or tight passages between trees and/or large rocks.

Unexpected trail obstacles--Litter (discarded wag bags?), fallen trees, or boulders, or a dozing hiker...

Follow these guidelines and you and the animals will continue happily on your respective journeys.

Remember that a horse or mule is something like a small child in a 1,200 pound body, and would much rather be at home in a nice quiet corral or pasture, instead of carrying all that heavy equipment up a steep trail. And like a small child, will need to go pee-pee or do-do at unexpected moments; don't take offense.

If you feel offended by the presence of horses and mules with trail crews, remember - they are helping maintain the trail that you happen to be walking on, so get over it. Say hi and thank you to the packer; they're doing a tough job that you might not want.

Check out this video from the USFS: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p9tgmln3WLI