Are you looking for a pleasant way to wish someone farewell and a safe journey? You can use "happy trails" to set them on their path. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression.
Meaning
The expression "happy trails" means that you wish someone a safe and pleasant journey. It's a farewell greeting that can apply to many scenarios. It's a similar greeting to wishing someone a "bon voyage."
You can use it with people you know or with strangers. Essentially, you're saying that you wish the departing party a safe journey back to their destination and that they have an easy road in front of them.
It's also another way of wishing someone a happy life. If you're not going to see them again, saying "happy trails" is an alternative to another greeting like, "I wish you well."
Example Usage
“I can’t believe you’re going overseas already. The last six months flew by since you booked your ticket. Oh well, I wish you happy trails on your adventure. Send me a postcard!”
“Happy trails, folks. I hope you get back home safe. Be careful on the highway. I hear there’s an accident at the exchange.”
“Kids, it’s been a heck of a summer, and we’ve all had fun. Now camps over, and it’s time to return home to your lives; we’ll see you all again next summer, happy trails!”
“Ok, everyone, this is where we split up. It’s been great traveling with you all, but here’s where we go our separate ways. Stay safe and happy trails!”
“If you’re going to the mountain for a hike, make sure you take your sunblock with you and happy trails!”
“We’re not expecting any problems during our hike between the countries. We have our passports and all the money we need to get by. It’s going to be nothing but happy trails.”
Origin
The expression "happy trails" originates from the outro song of the "Roy Rogers Show" in the 50s and 60s. The show was a commercial success, and Roy Rogers was a household name and American icon since the late 1930s.
Roy Rogers was a cowboy persona, and the outro song for the show, "Happy Trails," was an iconic catchphrase in the show. The show captured the hearts and minds of many kids born in the "baby-boomer" generation, and it was a time long before animation or streaming content was available.
Roy Rogers would often sign autographs for fans after his show. He would sign a headshot, and leave his signature “happy trails” as a caption for the person receiving the signed copy.
The lyrics to the outro song are as follows.
"Happy trails to you until we meet again.
Happy trails to you, keep smilin' until then.
Who cares about the clouds when we're together?
Just sing a song and bring the sunny weather.
Happy trails to you, 'till we meet again."
Phrases Similar to Happy Trails
- Bon voyage.
- Safe journey.
Phrases Opposite to Happy Trails
- May you live in interesting times.
What is the Correct Saying?
- Happy trails.
Ways People May Say Happy Trails Incorrectly
Some people may use happy trails as a sarcastic way of wishing people the opposite of the meaning of the expression. People rarely use this version, and a saying like "I wish you all the best" would be a better reply.
Acceptable Ways to Phrase Happy Trails
You can use "happy trails" as a farewell greeting when people leave your presence. Typically, they'll be going on a trip or an adventure in the local area. Saying "happy trails" lets the person know that you hope they have a safe and eventful journey to their destination. The phrase suits social and professional use.
You can use it at work to wish a colleague "happy trails" if they're going on a vacation. You could use it at home to wish your in-laws a safe trip home. You can use happy trails as a farewell greeting to people you know or strangers.