If you see a rattlesnake, which is easily identifiable due to its triangular-shaped head, the first thing you’re going to want to do is stop moving immediately. Rattlesnakes will rarely attack hikers unprovoked, so it’s safe to assume that if a rattlesnake feels scared or threatened, then they’ll go into attack mode. Freezing in place eliminates that risk to the snake. Secondly, you’ll want to back away very slowly, but don’t take your eyes off the snake. Most importantly, don’t throw anything at it, don’t try to push it out of your way with a stick or a hiking pole, and don’t try to scare it away by making a lot of noise. Try to find another path or turn around if you can.