Culture of Kindness
Deeply instilled in our core values is the drive to foster inclusivity and promote the enjoyment of outdoor spaces for individuals of all ages and abilities, emphasizing recreation, well-being, and convenient transportation options. With the growing number of trail users and the multitude of modes of enjoyment, there are times when conflict on the trails arises.
Our ongoing trail etiquette efforts center on education and trail design to address those conflicts and proactively create thriving communities that celebrate the outdoors and active lifestyles. In line with our core values, in the upcoming year, we have planned a trail etiquette campaign to nurture a culture of respect and kindness among trail users.
Our trail etiquette efforts focus on education campaigns and trail design to create thriving communities that celebrate the outdoors and active lifestyles.
We encourage trail users to exercise courtesy, caution, and control while on the trail to ensure everyone can feel safe and confident on our trail network.
Thank you to Madison Meter, Brian Raetz, Joe Robb, Jimmy McKenna, Stacey McKenna, and our videographer Jim Horn.
Special thank you to our sponsors Cherry Capital Cycling Club, Einstein Cycles, Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation, Pedego Traverse City, Ride Leelanau, Riding Electric, and Suttons Bay Bikes.
Courtesy, Caution, and Control
- Respect the trail environment by staying on designated paths, preserving plant life, wildlife, and property.
- Exercise caution at road crossings and come to a complete stop.
- When encountering other trail users, ride in a single file to ensure consideration for everyone.
- Maintain a controlled speed to prevent accidents and show courtesy to fellow trail users by slowing down.
- Stick to the right side of the trail, and when passing, politely announce “on your left” to alert others.
- Avoid obstructing the trail; kindly move to the side when stopping.
- Keep pets on a leash to ensure the safety of both animals and fellow trail users.
- Dispose of all trash and pet waste in designated trash receptacles.
- Refrain from smoking on or near the trails to maintain a clean and healthy environment.
- Prioritize safety by wearing a helmet.
- In case of emergencies, dial 911 for assistance.
- Pro-Tip! Cyclists should use front and rear lights and all trail users should wear reflective clothing in dim or dark conditions.
To report trail maintenance and personal safety incidents that are not of an urgent nature, please fill out an incident report form here.
