The City's trail system is composed of both paved and natural surface trails,
accommodating a wide range of users. While these trails currently exist
for our recreational pleasure, the future system will also provide alternative
transportation opportunities. Major population centers throughout the City
will be linked by the trail system. Pedestrians, bicyclists, and skaters
can all be safely accommodated when simple trail etiquette guidelines are
followed. The purpose of this User's Guide is to familiarize trail users
with the commonly accepted ways to use trails designed for multiple trail
users. As the number of trail users and their diversity increases, a general
knowledge of trail etiquette will improve safety and enhance our enjoyment
of the trail system. Parents please share this information with your children.
General User Guidelines
City trails are open to a wide variety of non-motorized users including
pedestrians, bicyclists, and skaters. Where trails are wide and level, conflicts
with other users should be minimal. If trails are congested, narrow or steep,
special care is required by all users. Conflicts can be avoided by traveling
on the right side of trails. This will allow on-coming and over-taking trail
users to pass conveniently and safely. Pets are allowed on the trail, but
they must be leashed at all times and their waste removed. Following these
general guidelines will ensure that you and other trail users will have
an enjoyable experience.
Trail Rules
 No motorized traffic.
No fires, or firearms.
No alcoholic beverages.
Stay on trails; do not take short-cuts.
Littering is prohibited.
Pets must be leashed and their waste removed.
No soliciting or sales.
Speed limit is 20 m.p.h.
Obey all posted signs.
Pedestrian Guide
As a pedestrian, you have the right of way over bicycles, but you also have the responsibility to allow a bicyclist to pass safely. To avoid conflicts with other trail users, pedestrians should keep to the right. When you see or hear a bicyclist approaching from the front or rear, pass the word to everyone in the group so no one accidentally steps in front of a moving bicycle.
Bicyclist Guide
Bicyclists must yield to all other trail users. The speed limit is 20 m.p.h. on all trails unless otherwise posted. On paved multiple use trails, bicyclists must keep to the right unless passing. Caution is required whenever passing. Slow your speed to pass safely and dismount and walk your bike when necessary. The terrain, surfacing, and width of the trail will dictate your behavior. Additionally, do not ride past pedestrians unless they are aware of your presence. Let pedestrians know you are ready to pass by giving an audible warning.
The International Mountain Bicycling Association's Rules of the trail are universally accepted guidelines for bicycle etiquette. These trail rules guide cyclists in riding both safely and considerately:
Ride on open trails only.
Leave no trace.
Control your bicycle.
Always yield.
Never spook animals.
Plan ahead.
Helmets are recommended whenever riding a bicycle. Additional information
on cycling can be obtained from the IMBA
and the League of American Bicyclists .
Skater's Guide
Skaters (including but not limited to skateboarders, inline skaters, and
roller skaters) must yield to pedestrians and adhere to the 20 m.p.h. speed
limit unless otherwise posted. Like other trail users, skaters must keep
to the right unless passing. Caution is required whenever passing. Slow
your speed to pass safely. The terrain, surfacing, and width of the trail
will dictate your behavior. Additionally, do not ride past pedestrians unless
they are aware of your presence. Let pedestrians know you are ready to pass
by giving an audible warning.
The International Inline Skating Association's (IISA) Rules of the Road
are universally accepted guidelines for skating etiquette. These road rules
help skaters to be safe and courteous:
Skate smart: always wear protective gear; master the basics; maintain your equipment.
Skate alert: skate under control; watch out for hazards; avoid water, oil, and sand.
Skate legal: obey all traffic regulations.
Skate courteous: Skate on the right; pass on the left; give audible warning when passing;
 yield to pedestrians.
Helmets and wrist protection are recommended for all skaters (other protection
includes knee and elbow pads). Additional information on skating can be
obtain from the IISA.
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