Newsletter: Ogden, Utah and Weber Pathways Essay

Submitted By sydfoust
Words: 1716
Pages: 7

Trail Etiquette: Who is who on the trials.
As the number of users on our trails increase, bikers, hikers, and horseback riders tend to come in to contact more often. Without the proper knowledge of trail courtesy this can become dangerous. Weber Pathways believes a safe conflict free trail is the obligation and in the hands of all trail users. To keep Weber Pathways trail's conflict free here is a guideline that emphasizes on trail courtesy.

Everyone yields to horses, bikes yield to hikers and bikers. Hikers yield to horses.

Hikers and bicyclists -. Individuals utilizing the trails are unaware of how quiet they are. It is very important to use your voice while on the trails. When going around any sharp turn give a friendly shout out. All trail users should use the right side of the trail to allow oncoming users to pass you on the left
Bicyclists - Bikes are the fastest moving object on the trails and they are incredibly quiet. If you are on a bike be aware of others on the trial, you must yield to everyone. This includes other people on bikes, hikers, and horseback riders. Chances are you will run into others on the trail before they even know that you are coming, so ride safe. Always call when going around a turn, don't feel embarrassed to talk, it is always best to let your presence be known. Greet someone as if they are your friend.
Hikers - Always yield to horseback riders. As a hiker, assume you will be the one to yield to anyone who comes your way, not everyone understands trail courtesy. This is your safest option.
Horseback riders - Horses are permitted on designated trails. When meeting a horse, bicyclists and other trail users should always make verbal contact with the rider and vice-versa. You don't want to startle the horse, and you might see them before they see you.
Horses - Horses are guests on our trails just like their human that is riding them. When a biker, wearing a helmet, goggles and pads is coming full speed at a horse the horse might think it is a weird scary object and not a human. Horses are not afraid to use force when startled. If you are approaching a horse use your voice from a distance so that the horse is more comfortable passing you.
Earphones - When wearing earphones it is much easier to become "lost" in the beauty that surrounds you. Weber Pathways highly suggests that you do not wear earphones, ear-buds, or any other device that can lower your hearing. However, if you are wearing earphones please keep the volume low, be extra aware of your surroundings, and always use your voice.
Passing - When approaching anyone on the trail, make the other person aware of you. When you overtake someone from behind, you should announce your presence and intent to pass with "passing on your left" or similar phrase.
Stopping along the trail - When stopped along the trail, please move to the side off the trail surface so that others may pass you. Look both ways before stepping back onto the trail so that you don't accidently bump into someone. Never leave your bicycle parked or lying in the trail.
Bridges - When stopping on a bridge, stay to one side so that the bridge is clear for passage by other trail users. Never leave your bicycle parked or lying on a bridge.
Gates - Do not sop in or block the gate opening. Pass through the gate and step to the side or move forward so that others may pass you. If you stop at a gate to await your companions always stay to the side, away from the opening. Never leave your bicycle parked or lying near a gate opening.

Dog and Trail etiquette:
On the Weber Pathway's trails dogs are always required to be on a leash. This is a requirement because not everyone that is out on the trails enjoys the company of a dog. Some trail users might be scared of dogs, have allergies, or just simply do not like dogs. An unfamiliar barking dog running at a trail user can be terrifying. When your pet frightens someone on the trail, be aware that the