We featured a workshop during our #Unite Run Wales Festival about getting off the roads and enjoying trail running, but did you know that there are some rules and guidance that we need to follow to ensure we’re safe and respect the countryside.
We’ve teamed up with Natural Resources Wales to bring you some advice so you can enjoy the trails on your walk, jog or run.
Before you go.
Check your route – are you staying on public rights of way, do you know what local permissions are on the route, will there be animals in the area e.g. on farms, have their been any changes in the weather that could affect your route.
Catch up on all the advice by watching Ginger Al’s session ‘The Rise of the Social Trail Runner’ available on our YouTube channel soon.
The Countryside Code and The Trail Users Code
Natural Resources Wales have lots of resources to help you plan your activity, you can have a read of the codes and find lots more information at or why not take a look at the video below. All the resources can be found on their website Natural Resources Wales / Days out but here are the main points from the Trail Users Code:
1. Share the space, drop your pace – respect other trail users especially those who are less able.
2. Wheel, heel, hoof – bikes and motor vehicles should give way to walkers and everyone should pass horse riders and horse-drawn vehicles wide and slow, making their presence known.
3. Stay safe – be seen, be heard, be aware.
4. Follow defined routes, way-markers or maps.
5. Don’t cause erosion or damage by leaving the trail.
6. Enjoy nature but be careful not to disturb wildlife.
7. Leave gates as you find them and leave no trace of your visit.
8. Keep dogs under effective control and take the safest route around farm animals, especially if they are with young animals.
9. Be mindful of man-made hazards and machinery – obey warning signs at all times.
10. Organisers should notify landowners of large group activities or events (not permissible at present).
Don’t disturb the wildlife
Leave gates as they are