Please note that other rules of the trail and codes of conduct may apply at different trail networks. Please familiarise yourself with “local rules” before heading out for your ride.
In areas where we share the trails with other user groups, this refers specifically to the Table Mountain National Park, please apply the following:
Advice for All Shared-Use Trails. Courtesy of IMBA
RESPECT
It’s a simple concept: if you offer respect, you are more likely to receive it. Education with friendly respect will diminish negative encounters on the trail for all users.
COMMUNICATION
Let folks know you’re there — before you’re there. Riding up on horses can be dangerous. For bikers and hikers; 1. Make yourself known. A simple “Hello” works to get attention. 2. Step downhill and off trail.
REVERE THE RESOURCE
Help protect your accessibility by playing nicely with your neighbours and treating trails with reverence. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics and pitch in to give back – pick up trash, volunteer on a trail project or become a member of your local trail club. Take action and get involved today!
AVOID SPREADING SEEDS
Help keep weeds out of our forests. Noxious weeds threaten our healthy ecosystems and livelihoods. Stay on trail, drive on designated roads, check your socks and bikes for hitchhikers when you get back to the trail head. Let’s keep our forests strong and clean.
BE INFORMED
It’s YOUR responsibility to be “in the know.” Questions about where to ride, trail closures, outdoor ethics and local regulations are important to know before you head out on the trails. Contact your local land manager if you are unsure about what you can and can’t do in a given area.
Rules of the Trail. Courtesy of IMBA.
RIDE OPEN TRAILS
Respect trail and road closures — ask a land manager for clarification if you are uncertain about the status of a trail. Do not trespass on private land. Obtain permits or other authorization as required.
LEAVE NO TRACE
Be sensitive to the dirt beneath you. Wet and muddy trails are more vulnerable to damage than dry ones. When the trail is soft, consider other riding options. This also means staying on existing trails and not creating new ones. Don’t cut switchbacks. Be sure to pack out at least as much as you pack in.
CONTROL YOUR BICYCLE
Inattention for even a moment could put yourself and others at risk. Obey all bicycle speed regulations and recommendations, and ride within your limits.
YIELD APPROPRIATELY
Do your utmost to let your fellow trail users know you’re coming — a friendly greeting or bell ring are good methods. Try to anticipate other trail users as you ride around corners. Bicyclists should yield to other non-motorized trail users, unless the trail is clearly signed for bike-only travel. Bicyclists traveling downhill should yield to ones headed uphill, unless the trail is clearly signed for one-way or downhill-only traffic. In general, strive to make each pass a safe and courteous one.
NEVER SCARE ANIMALS
Animals are easily startled by an unannounced approach, a sudden movement or a loud noise. Give animals enough room and time to adjust to you. When passing horses, use special care and follow directions from the horseback riders (ask if uncertain).
PLAN AHEAD
Know your equipment, your ability and the area in which you are riding and prepare accordingly. Strive to be self-sufficient: keep your equipment in good repair and carry necessary supplies for changes in weather or other conditions. Always wear a helmet and appropriate safety gear.
