Mt Whitney Zone Forums General Discussion Right-of-Way: Uphill Hiker or Downhill Hiker?

I've always believed the downhill hiker has the right-of-way because they are generally moving at a faster pace and will have a more difficult time stopping compared to the pace of the uphill hiker who is probably moving at a slower pace, but I've been told I'm wrong. Can someone please let me know if I'm right or wrong.

your logic I agree with completely.

my first two hits on Google say opposite conclusions. Not sure who the definitive source would be.


Uphill people are usually happy to stop, so why is "the rule" for them to keep going? The rule of uphill having the right of way seems more appropriate for heavily laden trucks with small engines.

In practice, trail terrain, who gets there first, or just simple courtesy usually takes precedent.

It always amazes me when a group of 6 hikers (going in any direction) pulls over to the side for a solo hiker. Makes no sense.

I think it goes more to whoever has the more trying set of circumstances. Most often, that means whoever is going uphill because overall, it's harder work (not that downhill doesn't have its challenges). Most of the time, its been my experience that the uphill climber has the right-of-way. But I do think you need to evaluate each situation and determine who would benefit the most from not having to stop. When you're lugging a pack uphill, you usually want to keep moving, whereas when you're letting gravity push you downhill, you can stop and easily get moving again by simply "taking off the brake" and letting gravity continue to do its thing.

CaT

As I recall, there is a similar rule for driving on mountain roads. The uphill driver has the right of way because stopping puts them at higher risk. A vehicle going downhill can shift into reverse and slowly go back up the mountain if necessary.

Mountaineering: Freedom of the Hills is a book too few people who venture into the out-of-doors read.

In my 5th edition, there is a section in the chapter on Wilderness Travel/Walking called "Etiquette." Number six in a list of seven rules states:

"Step aside on the way downhill to let a party of uphill hikers continue forward without breaking their pace."

I've always followed that. In practice, more often than not--as Harvey says--an uphill-going person is happy for an excuse to take a breather, and will step aside first. The point is, make the gesture and then let the uphill person decide.

I arrived on the scene a little late: I have the 7th edition of Freedom of the Hills and I consider this book my outdoor bible.

Time for a quote. I love 'em. In this situation, he would gladly stop (going up):

I had mountaineer's foot - inability at times to put one in front of the other.
HW Tilman, Two Mountains and a River page 525

Honestly up hill or down I like to stop for anyone passing because it gives me a better chance to ask about their trip.

RP, I like your approach best.

At my age it doesn't matter if I'm going up or down, I stop and let the others pass, either those that are overtaking me or those coming at me head on. Sometimes I stop to just "take in the scenery".