trail rules and etiquette

This article was released in July 2011
While some trails have specific hours, usages or rules, here are some general rules and etiquette tips to follow on all trails.

• Wheels yield to heels: if you are on “wheels” (bicycle, skates) you must yield to those on “heels” (pedestrians, horses). Pedestrians must yield to horses (if allowed on that particular trail).
• Ride or walk to the right and pass left (just like when you drive on the road).
• Slow down when passing others. Alert them to your passing by saying “passing” or ringing a bike bell.
• Do not wander off onto private property. Stay on the trail.
• Be safe. But in case you are injured, know your location, bring a cell phone or travel with a buddy (just like when swimming).

Get a more complete list of Iowa trail regulations.