Mountain bike trail etiquette

1. Ride Open Trails

First and foremost, respecting trail signage and sticking to open trails is a no-brainer. Pushing hard through a final climb only to discover your favourite trail is closed can be a real bummer but life isn’t always rainbows and unicorns - or loam and zesty berms. Trail closures can be due to numerous reasons including trail maintenance, accidents, rerouting and sometimes aggressive wildlife so respect the closure and opt for plan B.

2. Share the Trail

Nature is a place for everyone so be courteous of your fellow trail users. Pay mindful attention that you are on a trail that is open to mountain bikers. If you find yourself on a multi-use trail, ensure that you are riding in the appropriate direction, maintain control of your bike and yield safely should you encounter a fellow trail user.

Key Yielding Guidelines

• Cyclists travelling uphill have the right away

• It is the decision of the cyclist travelling uphill should they wish to stop and take a rest mid-climb and allow you (the descender) to pass safely.

• Move off the trail should you need to stop (somewhere safe)

• Ride single file along narrow sections of trail & stay to the right on wide trails

• Pass on the left when it’s safe to pass should you need to pass someone

• Always let someone know if you are passing them and ensure you are passing at a safe location where the person in front of you can comfortably move to the side safely. Saying “thank you” is also important and ensures a friendly interaction.

• Look up the trail for oncoming trail users before jumping back onto the trail

• When riding in a group, let fellow trail users know how many more cyclists are behind you when you pass 

• Be mindful of wildlife on the trails and give them space 

• Remember: cyclists yield to all non-motorized users; all trail-users yield to wildlife

3. Respect Your Limits

Select trails that are within your skill level and all members of your group if you are riding with multiple people. If you are riding somewhere new, take the time to familiarize yourself with the trail network beforehand to avoid any undesirable trail disasters.

4. Leave No Trace

Granola bar wrappers, energy gels, and holey tubes - whatever you bring with you into the forest, you must bring out with you.

5. Be Prepared

Always be prepared for the worst no matter how close to home you are. 

• Before leaving your home, ensure you tell someone where you are going 

• Check your gear before hitting the trail

• Pack enough water & snacks for the length of your ride

• Bring the necessary tools & spare parts should you encounter a mechanical on the trail

• Be mindful of the weather & daylight and know when to turn around

• Pack a light jacket & always carry a basic first aid kit