10/11/2025
Let's talk trail safety and etiquette.
To ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience on the trail, please follow these essential safety and etiquette guidelines.
1. Keep Right, Pass Left
This is the fundamental rule of any shared-use path. Treat the trail like a two-lane road. Stay to the right side of the trail in your direction of travel. When you need to pass someone, move into the left lane, and return to the right lane once you are safely clear.
2. Announce Your Approach When Passing
To avoid startling others, give a clear, audible signal before you pass.
*Cyclists: A friendly ring of a bell is one option. If you don't have one, a loud and clear call of "Passing on your left" is the standard.
*Runners/Walkers: A simple "Passing on your left" is courteous and effective when approaching slower walkers. Announce your pass with enough distance to give the other person time to react.
3. Be Aware and Limit Distractions
Pay attention to your surroundings at all times. This is crucial for anticipating hazards and hearing others who may be trying to pass you.
* Avoid wearing headphones in both ears. If you use them, keep the volume low or use only one earbud so you can hear approaching traffic and other warnings.
* Minimize phone conversations and looking at your screen while moving.
4. Cyclists: Control Your Speed and Yield to Pedestrians
Bicycles are the fastest vehicles on the trail and must operate with extra caution.
* Maintain a safe speed that is appropriate for the conditions and level of trail congestion.
* Slow down significantly in crowded areas, at intersections, and around blind corners.
* Pedestrians (walkers and runners) always have the right-of-way. Be prepared to slow down or stop for them.
5. Don't Block the Trail
Whether you are alone or in a group, be mindful of your space.
* Avoid walking or riding more than two abreast. In congested areas or when faster users are trying to pass, move into a single file line.
* If you need to stop to rest, tie a shoe, or take a phone call, move completely off the paved surface so you do not obstruct traffic.
6. Keep Pets and Children Close
For the safety of your loved ones and everyone else, maintain control at all times.
*Pets: Dogs must be on a short leash (6 feet or less is a common rule). Keep your pet on the right side of the trail with you and do not allow the leash to stretch across the trail.
*Children: Teach young children trail etiquette, especially the "Keep Right" rule. Keep them close to you and be aware that their movements can be unpredictable.
7. Be Visible, Especially in Low Light
If you are using the trail during low light, such as dawn or dusk, make sure you can see and be seen.
* Wear bright-colored or reflective clothing.
* Cyclists should use a white front light and a red rear light or reflector in low-light conditions.
* Walkers and runners should consider using a headlamp or carrying a small flashlight.
8. Be Prepared for the Distance
A 4.5-mile trail means a 9-mile round trip. Be prepared for your activity.
* Bring enough water, especially on warm days.
* Carry a fully charged cell phone in case of an emergency.
* Check the weather forecast before you head out and dress appropriately for the conditions.
9. Leave No Trace
Help keep the trail clean and beautiful for everyone.
* Pack out everything you bring in. Do not leave behind water bottles, food wrappers, or any other trash.
* If you have a pet, pick up their waste and dispose of it in a proper trash receptacle.
10. Be Courteous and Patient
A friendly attitude makes the trail a better place for everyone. A simple wave or a "thank you" goes a long way. Understand that the trail is used by people of all ages and abilities. Be patient with slower users and anticipate that others may make mistakes.
Shared space requires shared respect.
