With the rising prices of fuel, both flying and driving for a holiday have become a much larger expense. One way to reduce this cost is to cut out some of the travel time. Of course, you will need to spend some time in a vehicle to get to these locations, but once you arrive, the rest of the trip is self-propelled. Whether you are an experienced hiker or are new to the experience, there are thousands of trails and peaks across the US waiting to be explored.

For the inexperienced hiker, I recommend staying local to learn your limitations and what you enjoy in a hike. Local conservation areas generally have well marks trails that you can follow to experience more of your regions wildlife. Each state has a website outlining state parks and public spaces for hiking. If you plan on traveling, you can check out the state where you are headed or check out some of the best hikes in North America.

Whether you are hiking the Appalachian Trail or are just out for a short day hike, there are certain things that every hiker should know and think about while on the trail. Like every other sport, there is an element of etiquette involved that allows for all hikers to enjoy the terrain and their surroundings.

Carry in, carry out: Nothing is more unsightly while hiking than food wrappers or water bottles lying in your path. Some parks and trails are equipped with trash cans and recycling bins, but it is not something you can count on. Whether or not you come across them, plan on leaving with exactly what you came in with.

Share the trail: Though the idea of hiking is to get out and commune with the wilderness, you are almost certainly going to encounter other hikers, mountain bikers and, depending on where you are, people on horseback. Everyone has equal right to the trail, so be sure to share accordingly. Like with traffic, stay on the right of the trail and pass on the left. Notify those ahead of you when you will be passing and step to the side of the trail if you plan to take a rest or a few moments to absorb your surroundings. In general, if you’re on foot, you should yield to cyclists and horses as they are larger and less maneuverable.

Safety in numbers?: Even for experienced hikers, it can be dangerous to hike alone. Whether or not you are alone, it is important to let someone who is not on the trail with you know your plans and destination in case you do not arrive. If you are hiking as a part of a large group, on the other hand, be courteous to other hikers. Your group should never fill more than half of the trail and should yield to smaller groups of hikers.

Follow the trail: Many trails will be well defined, and there is a reason for this. Venturing off the trail can be dangerous to your safety as well as detrimental to the land around you. Many parks and areas are considered conservation land and are part of an environmental protection effort. They should be left in peace as you found them. When you come across a beautiful flower or other eye catching piece, take a photo. Think of how much joy it brought you and share that with everyone else that comes along.

Find joy and peace in your surroundings: If you are out hiking to get away from the city or your hectic life, leave that life behind. Part of the joy and wonder in hiking is how peaceful and quiet it can be and you don’t want to be that one that ruins that for your fellow hikers. Cell phones are a tool, not a necessity and though it can be fun to hear your echo, not everyone around you wants to hear it constantly. You too may find that you enjoy it more in peace.