Mountain bikers are relative newcomers to the trail systems that grace our parks and Colorado’s high country. Often bikers are viewed as unwelcome interlopers by hikers and equestrians. Riders who exhibit bad manners or threaten the safety of other trail users give all bikers a bad reputation and sometimes precipitate the closure of trails to biking. Aggressive riding also takes a toll on the trail itself and can damage the ecology.
Right of Way
Generally speaking, hikers and horsemen have the right of way. Though we bikers often outnumber other trail users, we do not own the trail. Bikers should slow down and announce their presence when overtaking others on the trail, including other bikers. Downhill traffic should yield to uphill traffic. Always be considerate and polite to others. Offer special deference to elderly hikers and families with children. Remember that horses can be easily spooked and dogs don’t always know to get out of the way.
Protecting the Trail
Ride only on the trail. Do not widen the tread by getting off the trail. Do not create shortcuts, ride around water bars, skid your rear tire around corners, or ride through mud, all of which damage the trail.
Leave no Trace
You know the old hiker’s adage: “Leave nothing but footprints. Take nothing but pictures.” The same should be true of mountain bikers. Ride so as not to damage the trail. Be careful not to litter. Avoid injuring trees and shrubs, flowers and grasses. Remember that high altitude tundra and cryptobiotic soil in the desert is very fragile and takes decades to recover from even modest impact. Go out of your way to pick up items discarded or lost by other trail users. Be a friend to planet Earth.
Wildlife
Try not to alarm wildlife. Do not chase or threaten animals. If you encounter a bear, back away slowly. If attacked, curl into a ball. Should you encounter a mountain lion, maintain eye contact, use your bike as a shield and make loud noises. Do not turn or run away, as this may trigger the cat’s hunting instinct. Do not lie on the ground. Remember, you are riding in the animal’s habitat.
Lend a Hand
If you meet anyone in distress, stop to offer help.
