Trail Etiquette - Part 1

To get the most enjoyment from using the fabulous multi-use trail system we have available in the Miami Valley, you need to understand your role in the etiquette of trail use.  Most of the things we’ll look at in these articles are common sense, but as Voltaire has said, “Common sense is not so common.“  Let’s first take a look at trail etiquette for cyclists.

Trail Etiquette for Cyclists

Announce your approach

Cyclists are the fastest users of the trails.  You approach other users quickly from behind or ahead.  Unless you announce your approach when coming from behind, you will often startle the other users.  This could cause the other user to react and actually move into the lane in which you are trying to pass them.

Simply announce, in a clear, loud voice, “Approaching on your left” or “Passing on your left”.  Do this far enough behind the other trail users that they can hear you and far enough back that you can react if they don’t move or make room for you.  This will protect you and the other trail users.

Ride single file when other trail users are coming toward you

Don’t force another cyclist or trail user to move to the very edge of the trail or to the grass.  Think about this: When you are riding with a friend and are passing another cyclist from behind, do you and your friend pass while riding side-by-side?  No; you go to single file.  The same logic should be used when you see another cyclist or other type of trail user approaching you.  Move to single file.  One of you should drop back until the approaching trail user has safely passed you.

This bit of trail etiquette has safety benefits as well.  Many cyclists, especially those who are new to the sport, don’t understand how little control one actually has over their bike.  You can hit a rock or twig and wheel hop.  This could cause you to touch handlebars with your friend and one or both of you to crash.  It’s happened, and there are many other scenarios that riding side-by-side can be attributed to as the cause of mishaps.

This is probably the most often talked about trail etiquette concern among cyclists.  We’ve all had encounters with cyclists riding side-by-side on 2-lane trails.  Informed cyclists don’t contribute to the problem, and they help to educate others about this important bit of trail etiquette.