Riding Etiquette
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Right of Way.

Bikers should always yield to pedestrians and horses.  Most equestrians or hikers don't mind you passing them, if you are courteous and announce your intentions.  Please follow the guidelines below.

Yielding to horses and pedestrians.

When approaching a pedestrian, slow down, announce that you are there and which side you plan to pass on.  Allow plenty of room.  If the trail is narrow or the hiker seems nervous, you should stop and pass on foot.

When approaching a horse, slow down, announce that you are there and ask if it is alright to pass.  Offer to stop riding and wait for the horse to pass you.

Yielding to other bike riders.

When approaching another rider from the opposite direction, allow enough room to easily pass each other.  If there isn't enough room to pass the downhill rider yields to the uphill rider.  You should stop soon enough and position your bike so there is enough room and time for the uphill rider to continue their assent unhampered.

When approaching another rider from behind, announce that you are there and which side you plan to pass on.

If  another rider comes up behind you, offer to let them pass and tell them which side you prefer them to pass on.  If necessary pull over to let them by.

When riding in a large group on single track trails, it is a good idea to let the fastest riders start first so there will be less need for passing on the trail.  This is especially true on technical uphill or downhill areas.  Don't take a "Head Start" unless you can be easily passed.

Common Courtesy

Please be courteous and friendly to everyone using the trails.  Avoid actions that may frighten or anger other riders, hikers, or horseback riders.  Remember that less experienced riders may need more room to maneuver and may be more easily frightened when being passed.

Don't Litter

Be sure to carry out all your trash.

Trail Maintenance

Trail maintenance is a good way to give back to the community and help keep the trails available for mountain bikers.  If you would like to get involved you can find out more from San Diego Mountain Bike Association.

International Mountain Bicycling Association's Rules of the Trail

1 -RIDE ON OPEN TRAILS ONLY- Respect trail and road closures (ask if not sure), avoid possible trespass on private land, obtain permits and authorization as may be required. Federal and State wilderness areas are closed to cycling.

2 -LEAVE NO TRACE- Be sensitive to the dirt beneath you. Even on open trails, you should not ride under conditions where you will leave evidence of your passing, such as on certain soils shortly after a rain. Observe the different types of soils and trail construction; practice low-impact cycling. This also means staying on the trail and not creating any new ones. Be sure to pack out at least as much as you pack in.

3 -CONTROL YOUR BICYCLE- Inattention for even a second can cause problems. Obey all speed laws.

4 -ALWAYS YIELD THE TRAIL- Make known your approach well in advance. A friendly greeting (or a bell) is considerate and works well, don’t startle others. Show your respect when passing others by slowing to a walk or even stopping. Anticipate that other trail users may be around corners or in blind spots.

5 -NEVER SPOOK ANIMALS- All animals are startled by an unannounced approach, a sudden movement, or a loud noise. This can be dangerous for you, for others, and for the animals. Give animals extra room and time to adjust to you. In passing, use special care and follow the directions of horseback riders (ask if uncertain). Running cattle and disturbing wild animals is a serious offense. Leave gates as you found them, or as marked.

6 -PLAN AHEAD- Know your equipment, your ability, and the area in which you are riding and prepare accordingly. Be self-sufficient at all times. Wear a helmet keep your machine in good condition, and carry necessary supplies for changes in weather and other conditions. A well-executed trip is a satisfaction to you and not a burden or offense to others.