Trail Running Tips: Safety & How To Act If You See Cows, Bears Or Snakes

Last Updated on July 9, 2023 by Amanda Bowden

Trail Running Tips: Introduction

Trail running combines the thrill of adventure with the serenity of nature. But to fully enjoy this exhilarating experience, it’s essential to prioritize your safety, and we can help you do this with these trail running tips!

These essential trail running tips include recommendations about what to do if you encounter wildlife that may be dangerous while out on the trails. We cover cows, bears, and snakes.

In the TOC below, click on the item you’d like to read, or scroll down to read the whole article.

Read on to get the benefits of these trail running tips:

Trail Running Tips 1: Safety Precautions

1. Tell Someone Where You’re Going

Before going out on a trail run, let someone you trust know your planned route, how long you’re likely to be, and expected time of return.

If you don’t come back when expected they can either come and find you or alert emergency services, depending on what you’ve agreed on.

2. Carry a Cell Phone

Always carry a fully charged cell phone with you during your trail runs.

It serves as a vital communication tool in case of emergencies or when you need assistance.

In remote areas, consider investing in a personal locator beacon for additional peace of mind.

3. How To Stay Safe While Running Alone

Watch this video from The Run Experience for some tips to stay safe if you’re running alone. This one is especially aimed at females.

4. Carry Safety Essentials

Pack essential safety items, such as a small whistle to attract attention if lost or injured, a basic first aid kit containing bandages and necessary medications, and blister treatment to address common trail running ailments.

Carry an emergency foil blanket too, to help keep you warm if you get injured or stuck somewhere.

5. Stay Visible if You Run at Night

If it’s going to be dark when you head out, or you’re going to be running through the night, watch this 5 minute video from Wild Ginger Trail & Ultra Running to get some good tips on how to make sure you get noticed and can see where you’re going at night (so you don’t trip and break something!).

6. Beware of Wildlife: Animal Encounters

Depending on your location, familiarize yourself with the wildlife you might encounter on the trails.

Learn how to react calmly and appropriately, maintaining a safe distance and avoiding sudden movements that could disturb or provoke animals.

Carry on reading for the animal encounters section to find out about what to do if you come across cows, bears, or snakes on the trail.

7. Check Weather Conditions

Stay updated on weather forecasts before your trail runs. Inclement weather can significantly impact trail conditions and increase risks.

Avoid running during severe weather events like thunderstorms, high winds, or extremely heavy downpours.

Seek shelter if necessary.

Don’t cross floodwater, or streams, unless you are sure you know they are not too deep, or their currents too strong!

8. Stay on Marked Trails

Stick to established trails and resist the temptation to stray off the designated paths.

Venturing off-trail can lead to environmental disruption, the risk of getting lost, or encountering hazardous terrain.

Respect trail closures or restrictions implemented for conservation purposes.

9. Run With a Friend

Consider running with a friend or joining a trail running group. Running with a companion adds an extra layer of safety and camaraderie, particularly on longer or more remote trails.

10. Dress Appropriately

Make sure you dress for the weather you’re likely to encounter. If it’s snowing out make sure you’ve got insulated gear, including gloves and hat, to keep you warm.

If it’s icy attach ice cleats or crampons to your running shoes, to help you keep your footing.

If it’s hot wear lightweight gear that reflects the sun, and consider taking icepacks in your running pack to cool you down.

If you’re going to be running in the rain make sure you’ve got a good waterproof running jacket with you.

Read one of these articles to find yourself a good waterproof running jacket:

• The Best Women’s Waterproof Running Jackets in the UK
• The Best Men’s Waterproof Running Jackets in the UK
• The Best Men’s Waterproof Running Jackets on Amazon

Next discover what to do if you encounter cows, bears or snakes while you’re out.

Animal Encounters: Cows, Bears & Snakes

Trail Running Tips 2: Cows on the Trails

Cows are docile animals but can become protective or defensive.

They are generally non-aggressive, but they can behave protectively around their calves.

Very rarely someone does get attacked by a cow, or cows, while out on the trails, so it’s worth knowing what to do if you come across some.

Although cows look big and lumbersome, they can actually move at speeds up to 40km/h, so don’t think you can outrun them!

Watch the video below for some more useful advice.

If you encounter cows on the trail:

• Give them space: Maintain a respectful distance and avoid getting between cows and their calves.
• Move slowly and calmly: Sudden movements or loud noises may startle them.
• Yield the right of way: Allow cows to move freely, and give them time to clear the trail.
• Avoid provoking cows: Never try to touch, pet, or feed cows.
• If you are out with a dog, and cows come after you, let your dog off the lead as your dog will be able to outrun the cows much more easily than you (as long as you have a healthy dog). The cows are also more likely to be interested in the dog than you, giving you a chance to get away. When you are safely away from the cows you can call your dog to you.
• If there’s a bull in field, do not go through. Find another route.
• If cows look agitated (for example they may beat their hooves or jump around, or generally look aggressive) retrace your steps, or find an alternative route. Better safe than sorry.

Trail Running Tips 3: Bears on the Trails

Encountering a bear on the trail can be an awe-inspiring experience, but it’s crucial to have a cautious approach.

Bears are generally shy and avoid human contact.

However, it’s essential to be aware and prepared when in bear country.

If you encounter a bear on the trail:

• Stay calm: Avoid sudden movements, and speak in a calm, assertive voice.
• If you see a bear back away slowly: Give the bear space, never turning your back on it.
• Don’t try and pass the bear. Once you are out of it’s sight try to find another route.
• Do not run: Running may trigger a chase response. Maintain a steady, unhurried pace.
• Make noise: Speak, sing, or clap your hands to alert bears to your presence while you’re on the trail.
• Carry an air horn to make extra noise to alert bears to your presence so they can move away.
• Carry bear spray: In bear country, carry and know how to use bear spray as a deterrent.

Watch this video from the trail runner and film maker Jeff Pelletier for more tips on avoiding bears, and what to do if you do come across one.

He also explains how to tell the difference between black bears and grizzly bears.

Know Bear Safety Tips:

If you are going out trail running somewhere you may come across bears, make sure you familiarize yourself with bear safety practices, such as proper food storage, camping away from trails, and following local park regulations.

Trail Running Tips 4: Snakes on the Trails

Encountering snakes on the trails is not uncommon, but most snake encounters are harmless.

Snakes are generally elusive and prefer to avoid human interaction.

However, if you step on a snake the consequences can be deadly.

What to do when you’re on the trail:

• Watch where you’re going, and keep an eye out for snakes.
• Give them space: Allow snakes to move away on their own. Step back and give them a wide berth.
• Stay on the trail: Avoid going off-trail or stepping into tall grass or rocky areas where snakes may be concealed.
• Do not handle snakes: Never attempt to touch or handle snakes, as this can provoke defensive behavior.

Educate Yourself

Familiarize yourself with the types of snakes in your area and learn to identify venomous species.

If you’re in an area known for venomous snakes, consider taking a snake awareness and first aid course.

Always remember that prevention and awareness are key when it comes to encountering animals on the trails.

Respect their space, follow recommended actions, and maintain a safe distance to ensure both your safety and the well-being of the animals.

Watch the video below for more tips about what to do if you come across a snake on the trail. It also covers what to do if you are unlucky enough to be bitten by a snake.

Trail Running Tips: Conclusion

Trail running is amazing fun, while being good for your body and mental health. However, it does carry some risks, and taking care of your safety is of utmost importance.

By following essential trail running safety tips and knowing how to react when encountering cows, bears, and snakes, you can still enjoy your runs while minimizing the risks involved.

Remember to inform others about your plans, carry a cell phone for emergencies, and pack safety essentials like a whistle and a basic first aid kit.

Stay on marked trails, respect wildlife and their habitats, and think about the weather conditions before you head out.

When it comes to animal encounters, give cows and their calves space, move calmly and yield the right of way.

With bears, stay calm, back away slowly, and make noise to alert them of your presence.

For snakes, maintain a safe distance, stay on the trail, and avoid handling them.

For more trail running tips read Trail Running Tips: Trails and Gear.

Stay safe, enjoy the trails, and embrace the adventure that trail running offers. Happy running!