Riding on trails requires a set of etiquette that's different from our road riding rules. We use IMBA’s Rules of the Trail as our starting point for trail etiquette.
Always remember that you represent all cyclists every time you're on your bike.
Trail etiquette in New England can be a bit different from trail riding in other parts of the world. Not all these rules are the same in every riding area.
Ride Open Trails: We only rides open public trails and roads. If you get off trail for any reason, make sure you stay on open trails only; do not go onto private property unless there is a clearly posted easement.
The Trails Are A Gift: Protect the trails. Stay on the trail. Ride through puddles rather than around them. Don't skid.
Leave No Trace: Whatever you ride in with, ride out with: food wrappers and punctured tubes are two good examples.
Give Everyone Right Of Way: Walkers, horses, motorcycles, dogs, and critters. Please present cyclists in a positive light. Yield to everyone.
Rider Right of Way: Riders heading uphill have the right of way over riders heading downhill. The reason for this is that it's tougher to maintain momentum going uphill. Yielding while descending keeps your speed down - it's safer.
Stay on the Trail: Some areas are more sensitive than others but going off-trail damages fauna and the ecosystem. Ride through a muddy section - don't ride around it.
Ride Dry Trails: Don't ride when trails are wet or muddy.
Ride Within Your Capabilities: No one wants to carry you out of the trails because you needed to do a tabletop.
Respect Horses: You may see people riding horses on the bike route so be aware. Horses are usually very uncomfortable around bikes. Stop your bike and ask the horseback rider for instructions – every horse is different. You do not want to see a horse freak out.
