Back Check

A back check is a trail marking that tells the pack to turn around and head back the way they came. The true trail continues from a point behind the pack that was not visible when initially passing through.

How It Works

• When hashers encounter a back check, they reverse direction
• A number may appear under the mark indicating how many marks back to go before searching for trail again
• The true trail typically branches off from a spot the pack already passed

Strategic Purpose

Back checks are one of the hare’s most effective tools for keeping the pack together. They turn the running order inside out — FRBs who were leading are now at the back, while slower hashers who hadn’t yet reached the mark are suddenly in front with the best chance of finding true trail.

Related Terms

• Check — another trail-control mark used by hares
• FRB — the runners most affected by back checks
• Hare — the one setting back checks