Privacy Policy
Last Updated: [3/11/2026]
This Privacy Policy describes how Trail Buddies LLC (“TrailBuddies,” “we,” “our,” or “us”) collects, uses, and shares information when you access or use the TrailBuddies website, mobile applications, and related services (collectively, the “Platform”).
By accessing or using the Platform, you acknowledge that your information will be handled in accordance with this Privacy Policy.
1. Scope of This Policy
1.1 Application
This Privacy Policy applies to information collected through:
a. The TrailBuddies website
b. Mobile application operated by TrailBuddies
c. Features, tools, or services provided through the Platform
1.2 Exclusions
This Privacy Policy does not apply to third-party websites, services, or applications that may be linked from the Platform.
2. Information We Collect
We may collect several types of information depending on how you use the Platform.
2.1 Information You Provide Directly
You may provide information when you:
a. Create an account
b. Upload hazards, photos, or reviews
c. Participate in or create events and groups
d. Contact customer support
e. Subscribe to communications
Information you provide may include:
a. Name or display name
b. Email address
c. Profile photo
d. Location or home region
e. Messages sent through the Platform
f. Content you upload or share
2.2 Activity and Content Data
When you use the Platform, we may collect information about your activities, including:
a. Trails you view or save
b. Routes you’ve taken
c. Hiking activity records
d. Photos, reviews, or comments posted to the Platform
Content you submit may be visible to other users depending on your privacy settings.
2.3 Location Information
If you choose to enable location features, the Platform may collect location information such as:
a. GPS data associated with routes or activities
b. Approximate location derived from your device or IP address
Location information helps provide features such as route tracking, trail discovery, and nearby trail recommendations.
You may disable location services through your device settings.
2.4 Automatically Collected Information
When you use the Platform, certain information may be collected automatically, including:
a. Device type and operating system
b. Browser type
c. IP address
d. Usage activity on the Platform
e. Pages viewed and interactions with features
This information helps us maintain and improve the Platform.
3. Cookies and Tracking Technologies
3.1 Use of Cookies
The Platform may use cookies and similar technologies to:
a. Maintain login sessions
b. Remember user preferences
c. Improve functionality and performance
d. Analyze usage of the Platform
3.2 Managing Cookies
Most web browsers allow you to control or disable cookies through browser settings. Disabling cookies may affect certain features of the Platform.
4. How We Use Information
TrailBuddies may use collected information for purposes including:
4.1 Providing the Platform
a. Creating and managing user accounts
b. Delivering maps, trails, and platform features
c. Enabling user communication and group participation
4.2 Improving the Platform
a. Understanding how users interact with features
b. Fixing technical issues
c. Improving user experience
4.3 Communication
a. Responding to inquiries or support requests
b. Sending service notifications
c. Providing updates about the Platform
4.4 Security and Integrity
a. Detecting fraud or misuse
b. Enforcing our Terms of Service
c. Protecting the safety of users and the Platform
5. Sharing of Information
TrailBuddies does not sell personal information.
However, information may be shared in certain circumstances.
5.1 With Other Users
Certain information may be visible to other users depending on your settings, including:
a. Display name
b. Profile photo
c. Trails, routes, or activities you choose to share
d. Reviews or comments
5.2 Service Providers
We may share information with third-party service providers that help operate the Platform, such as:
a. Hosting providers
b. analytics services
c. email communication providers
d. security and infrastructure providers
These providers are permitted to use information only as necessary to perform services for TrailBuddies.
5.3 Legal Requirements
Information may be disclosed if required to:
a. comply with applicable laws or regulations
b. respond to legal requests or court orders
c. enforce our Terms of Service
d. protect the rights, property, or safety of TrailBuddies or its users
5.4 Business Transfers
If TrailBuddies undergoes a merger, acquisition, sale of assets, or similar transaction, user information may be transferred as part of that transaction.
6. Data Retention
TrailBuddies retains personal information for as long as necessary to:
a. provide the Platform and its services
b. comply with legal obligations
c. resolve disputes
d. enforce our agreements
Information may also be retained in aggregated or anonymized form for analytical purposes.
7. Data Security
TrailBuddies implements reasonable administrative, technical, and organizational measures designed to protect user information from unauthorized access, disclosure, or misuse.
However, no internet-based system can be guaranteed to be completely secure.
Users should take appropriate precautions to protect their account credentials.
8. Your Privacy Choices and Rights
Depending on your location, you may have certain rights regarding your personal information.
8.1 Access and Correction
You may access or update certain account information through your account settings.
8.2 Data Requests
You may request:
a. access to personal data we hold about you
b. correction of inaccurate information
c. deletion of your personal data, where permitted by law
8.3 US Privacy Rights Disclosures
TrailBuddies processes your Personal Data subject to US state consumer privacy laws such as the California Consumer Privacy Act.
8.4 Account Deletion
You may request deletion of your account by contacting TrailBuddies using the contact information below.
Certain information may be retained as required by law or for legitimate business purposes.
9. Children’s Privacy
The Platform is not directed toward individuals under the age of 18.
TrailBuddies does not knowingly collect personal information from children.
If we become aware that personal information from a minor has been collected, we may take steps to delete that information.
10. Third-Party Links
The Platform may contain links to third-party websites or services.
TrailBuddies is not responsible for the privacy practices of those third parties.
Users should review the privacy policies of any third-party services they access.
11. Changes to This Privacy Policy
TrailBuddies may update this Privacy Policy from time to time.
Updated versions will be posted on the Platform with a revised “Last Updated” date.
Continued use of the Platform after changes become effective constitutes acceptance of the updated Privacy Policy.
12. Contact Information
If you have questions about this Privacy Policy or wish to exercise your privacy rights, you may contact: