What trail interactions can mar an otherwise enjoyable hike for you? Aside from blazes that aren't where they're supposed to be (or there at all); maps that don't correspond w/the actual trail itself; a weatherperson who totally misinterpreted the forecast before you headed out on what was originally predicted to be a sunny, rain-free day; and other aspects specifically related to actual trail conditions... what irks you, bothers you, annoys you, etc. about other trail encounters?
Not necessarily in order of "annoyance priority", here's some of mine:
- Mountain bikers/ATV'ers who use, abuse & ruin trails specifically designated for hikers only;
- Dogs not on leashes. (Be it known that I am more than just a casual animal lover. "Avid" more describes me. So it isn't the dog I fault. As is usually the case, it's the animal's person. While the person may know their animal is friendly, an approaching hiker maneuvering a precarious incline hasn't a clue about the animal's disposition;
- Unless they're groups of scouts, campers or coordinated nature groups, it's screaming, unruly children along for a weekend jaunt w/Mom and or Dad. Kids who drop & leave debris, destroy trailside flora, throw rocks off cliffs, block said cliff walks while others are trying to maneuver up or downhill. Unlike in the case of unleashed dogs, w/kids like these I do tend to cast more blame directly toward the kids in this scenario. However, the real & majority fault still lies once again with - you guessed it - the allegedly supervising adult.
- People carrying on casual cell phone conversations w/their speakers turned up so every chipmunk in the forest can hear what the person on the other end of the line is saying too.
There's more, I'm sure. But right now they escape me. Having said all that, however, I've got to add that ever since I started hiking and at no other time or place in my life, have I've ever met a more friendly, helpful, conscientious, considerate and respectful (both of others and of nature) group of people than sister/fellow hikers.
Linda
"To Live Is Not Just to Survive, But To Thrive In Beauty, Compassion, Passion & Style " - Maya Angelou