Hiking Trail
The sign indicates the direction to the hiking trail
When You See This Sign
When you see a hiking trail sign, interpret it as guidance to a trail rather than a traffic command. Slow down if necessary, watch for entrances and parking areas, and be prepared to encounter pedestrians who may cross or move near the road.
Rules & Regulations
- The hiking trail sign (H17) is an informational sign in the local services category and only indicates the direction to a hiking trail; it is not a regulatory traffic sign.
- The sign does not change right-of-way rules or speed limits — applicable traffic regulations continue to apply where the sign is posted.
- Any supplementary signs indicating parking, no motor vehicle access, or special instructions at the entrance must be followed.
- Vehicles must not be driven onto the trail itself if it is intended for pedestrians or if supplementary signs prohibit motor traffic; respect landowners' and managers' instructions.
Tips for Drivers
- Slow down and be prepared to stop when approaching a parking area or entrance where hikers may cross the road.
- Look for supplementary symbols (arrow, 'P', 'No motor vehicles') near the sign that show exactly where to drive or where you may park.
- Park only in designated parking areas and avoid blocking driveways, farm roads, or emergency access routes connected to the trail.
- Be extra attentive in the morning/evening and on weekends because many hikers, children and dogs may be active near road entrances.
Common Mistakes
- Believing the sign grants priority or indicates a speed limit — it is an informational sign and does not change traffic rules.
- Assuming it is always permitted to drive all the way to the start of the trail by car; often parking is required at a designated area.
- Confusing the hiking trail sign symbol with bicycle or bridleway signs and believing the same traffic arrangements apply.
Test Yourself
Road Sign: Hiking Trail
How should you interpret this sign when planning a hike?
- A It indicates direction to a hiking trail that you can follow on foot.
- B It indicates that the area is intended for snowmobile use.
- C It means cycling is mandatory on this trail.
- D It indicates that car traffic is prohibited along the entire trail.
Exam Tip
On the theory test they may try to trick you into thinking H17 implies some form of right-of-way requirement or speed limit. Answer that it is an informational sign that only shows direction and that you should follow any supplementary signage if present.
Did You Know?
Hiking trail signs in Sweden often belong to the brown tourist and service direction signs and are coded as H17 in the road sign system. They are often erected by municipalities, the Swedish Transport Administration, or local tourist associations adjacent to popular nature paths and trails, which are often maintained by local organizations such as the Swedish Tourist Association.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to stop when I see a hiking trail sign?
No, the sign itself does not require you to stop. Only stop if you are going to park in a designated spot or if traffic safety requires it, for example to let pedestrians pass.
May I drive up to the start of the hiking trail by car?
It depends on supplementary signage and local regulations. Often there is a parking area nearby where you should leave the car, and the trail itself is intended for pedestrians so motor vehicles are not allowed on the trail.
Does the sign indicate that the trail is signed and marked for hiking?
Yes, the sign generally points toward a trail intended for hiking and is often clearly marked on the ground. The exact standard of markings and difficulty can, however, vary between trails.
Does the sign affect my right-of-way or speed?
No, the sign does not change your right-of-way rules or speed limits. You must still follow the normal traffic rules and any speed limit signs that apply at the location.
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