BE PREPARED Know your equipment, your ability, the weather, and the area you are riding and prepare accordingly. Have a map, cell phone, GPS, or rider familiar with the area along with you. A well planned ride will go smoothly for you and your companions. DON'T RIDE ON CLOSED TRAILS Whether it is to protect the environment or for rider safety, a closed trail is off limits for a reason. Riding closed trails is illegal and gives mountain bikers a bad reputation. SAY NO TO MUD Riding a muddy trail can cause unnecessary trail widening and erosion that may lead to long lasting damage. RESRECT THE TRAIL, WILDLIFE, AND THE ENVIRONMENT Be sensitive to the trail and its surroundings by riding softly and never skidding. Do not litter and never scare animals. STAY ON THE TRAIL Do not intentionally ride off the trail. Ridng off the trail can damage the ecosystem. Never cut switchbacks, and dismount and walk your bike if necessary. RIDE SLOWLY ON CROWDED TRAILS Just like a busy highway, when trails are crowded you must move slower to ensure safety for all trail users. PASS WITH COURTESY AND CARE Slow down when approaching other trail users and respectfully make others aware you are approaching. Pass with care and be prepared to stop or yield to others when needed. SHARE THE TRAIL Mountain bikers, hikers, and equestrians must share multi-use trails. Remeber that mountain bikers should yield the trail to hikers and equestrians. DON'T DO UNAUTHORIZED TRAILWORK Unauthorized or illegal trailwotk may lead to environmental damage, injury, or even potential trail closure. It is generally acceptable to remove loose sticks, trash, debris, or dead limbs where it will make the trail more passable. GET INVOLVED If you want to make a difference in your mountain biking community get involved with a local club, or join IMBA to help keep the trails open worldwide and in your area. |
