How to Practice Good Trail Etiquette When Mountain Biking

As mountain biking has grown in popularity, many trails have been closed to cyclists. Follow the steps below, join the International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA), and help turn this trend around.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Bike Shorts
• Bike Helmets
• Bike Jerseys
• Bike Packs
• Bike Rain Gear
• Bike Shoes
• Bike Tools

1. Go slowly around others. Control your bicycle and don't speed.

2. Give hikers and equestrians the right of way.

3. Equip your bike with a bell. This is probably the simplest way to let a hiker or equestrian know you are approaching.

4. Be especially careful around horses. Be sure to slow down and communicate with the riders.

5. Try not to leave a trace. Bring out what you brought in, ride only on marked trails, and avoid promoting erosion through reckless riding.

6. Ride only on open trails. Don't ride on private property or on trails that are closed to bicycles.

7. Educate others. If you see other riders breaking any of these rules, try to set them straight. One idiot can give other cyclists a bad name.

8. Plan ahead. Wear a helmet and the proper clothing for the conditions, and keep your bike in good working order.

Tips & Warnings

• Want to learn more and get involved? Join the IMBA, which promotes mountain biking and fights for trail access everywhere (see Related Sites).
• Always wear a helmet when cycling.
• Mountain biking is a physically demanding sport that could cause serious injury. We recommend that you seek the proper equipment and training before undertaking this activity.

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[ebrown247]

on 6/28/2009 This article lacks critical info on uphill/downhill yielding. Downhill traffic, especially rider, always yields to uphill rider.