Tuesday, April 20, 2010

Don't forget your Trail Etiquette!

If you're reading this, you probably already know that the Greater Philadelphia area has some amazing trails for biking, running and walking.

If you know that, then you also know that our trails are often crowded with others who also want to take advantage of these great resources. We all need to make sure everyone is able to have an enjoyable -and safe!- trail experience by following these tips for Trail Etiquette:

Etiquette for Cyclists
  • Be courteous- trails are for all users!
  • Keep right (except to pass)
  • Ring a bell or politely call out "on your left" when passing
  • Give ample room when passing, even if that involves slowing down until that is possible
  • Keep your speed down, enjoy the view, and keep an eye out for posted speed limits
  • Stay single file during busy times
  • Yield right-of-way to other trail users- remember that runners and pedestrians are more vulnerable trail users
Etiquette for All Users
  • Keep right, walk no more than two abreast
  • Stay alert, faster trail users need to pass
  • When stopped, step off the trail
  • Keep dogs on a leash and clean up after your dog
  • Share the trail; be considerate of all users
Want to learn more, or give this information to your friends and family? Pick up a copy of the Bicycle Coalition's Trail Etiquette handout, or download it from our website!

Or, you can Invite the Bicycle Ambassadors to an event or to teach a class!

What are some other tips for etiquette that you think are important?

3 comments:

  1. If you're a runnier wearing headphones, please look before you decide to make a sharp left turn across the path in front of oncoming cyclists.

    As someone who runs more than pedals, I can't stress this enough. A runner recently did this to me down by the Schuylkill river park. Bleh.
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  2. This requires that we assume that people who go out in public have EVEN an inkling of self-awareness of the fact they are not the only people in the universe who need to occupy public space. I am not sure I am ready to give the public the benefit of the doubt. But, it's a nice thought and MAYBE somebody will read this and think twice before doing something mindless and dangerous!
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  3. Please, Please, If you want to stop and talk or if your bike has a problem - move off the path so others can get by.
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