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Being a Responsible Trail User

1. Support the Trails: Trails don’t build or maintain themselves. Become a CITA member, donate, and/or volunteer to help us keep the trails you ride open and safe for everyone.

2. Ride Open and Dry Trails: Respect trail closures —if there are no signs or they have not been changed after a rain shower please adhere to the “Ride Dirt not Mud” rule. Wet and muddy trails are more vulnerable to damage, riding muddy trails contributes to unnecessary erosion and unpleasant ruts. 

This applies to winter riding also. Ride when the surface is frozen solid and avoid riding during the day as the sun can melt snow even if the temperature is below freezing. When the trail is soft, please stay off. 

3. Leave No Trace: Always pack out at least as much as you pack in. This also means staying on existing trails, not creating new ones without clearance and respecting permanent closures and re-routes. Don't cut switchbacks or alter features.

4. Control Your Bicycle: Inattention for even a moment could put yourself and others at risk. Obey all signs, be aware of your surrounding and ride within your limits.

5. 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 given the OK to pass. 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.

6. 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. You seriously don’t want to be hit by a deer… they hurt! 

7. Plan Ahead: Know your equipment, your ability and the area in which you are riding and prepare accordingly. Strive to be self-sufficient by keeping your equipment in good repair and carrying necessary supplies for changes in weather or other conditions. Always wear a helmet and appropriate safety gear.