Often times trail users are lumped into just three categories: hikers, bikers, and equestrians. Those three may be the predominant trail user groups, but there are many other individuals that also enjoy our trail systems that shouldn’t be overlooked. Everyone that gets on a trail enjoys it for specific purposes: exercise, flower identification, interpretation, relaxation, etc. These purposes can sometimes conflict with reasons other trail users are there. It is helpful to keep in mind not only the park and trail rules and regulations but to follow proper trail etiquette. This approach may help alleviate some of the conflicts occurring on the trails.
If nothing else, the Safe Trails Coalition wishes to remind everyone that local trails are used by more than just hikers, bikers, and equestrians. Here are some of the other trail users you may encounter:
- Runners
- Scientists/Researchers
- Bird-watchers
- Educators/School Groups/Students
- Photographers
- Walkers
- Law Enforcement/Security
- Families
- Picnickers
- Backpackers
- Volunteers