Riders TICKETED at Lebanon!

[gopherhockey]

I just got word that Dakota has given out 4 tickets to mountain bikers at Lebanon so far this spring for riding on closed trails!

I guess one guy actually got a $140 ticket!

This is great news. Finally something is being done about the abuse that has been happening in our parks. These guys that ride the trails when closed are definitely not MORC members (or IMBA members) and I'm guessing have never or will never volunteer at any trail building events.

"Its just dirt" one guy told me. Well, hey - its just $140 out of your pocket, buddy..

In one respect it is unfortunate, because this is not the way I would wish to educate people... but I think there are just people out there that aren't willing to listen to us about all the work it takes to keep up these trails. Tickets are, perhaps, the only way they might learn.

So... spread the word to everyone you know that Dakota County isn't messing around any longer, and hopefully we will see other land managers doing the same!

:banana:

[Trevize1138]

It does seem like there's this unfortunate image of mountain biking being best when you're getting all muddy. Anybody who's gotten even the least bit serious about riding has quickly found out that mud is best to be avoided.

I wonder if mountain bike magazines are partially to blame for showing shots of bikers going through puddles. Makes for a great photo, but I wonder if it sends the wrong message?

[soupboy]

...I contribute to MORC and believe in staying off trails until rideable, but a $140 ticket is simply unacceptable.

Some may say, "...that rider got what they deserved...", but $140 is excessive unless he was doing something else such as destroying fencing, existing obstacles, etc.

Dakota County, or anyone else, playing the role of Trail **zi is total BS. Sure, ticket people and make it noteworthy - as in, $25 or so. Enough to grab your attention like a parking ticket.

At the end of the day, who is best to discern what is rideable and what is not? Unless you hold an advanced degree in geology or equivalent get off your high horse. I know when a trail is rideable and when it's not...as do most experienced riders.

If a park ranger ever gives me a ticket for $140 I will duly insert it in one of his orifi.

Cheers,

Sean:mad:

[TrailPatrol]

Originally posted by soupboy187
...
At the end of the day, who is best to discern what is rideable and what is not? Unless you hold an advanced degree in geology or equivalent get off your high horse. I know when a trail is rideable and when it's not...as do most experienced riders.

Sean

The entire point here, and in this whole Lebanon Hills discussion is that when the parks department says the trails are closed, they are "CLOSED" What you or anyone else thinks "is rideable" is totally without merit, because you are not supposed to be on a closed trail in the first place. They may be closed for reasons that have nothing to do with what you want to do. Responsible riders follow IMBA's Rules of the Trail #1. Ride On Open Trails Only. Respect trail and road closures (ask if uncertain.) The way you ride will influence trail management decisions and policies.

'Nuf said.

[KleinCrazy]

Sean,

A little backround on the reasons for the tickets might be in order before you make such a snap decision.

It can easily cost MORC, through Dingo hours and Volunteer Hours well over $140 to fix the damage done by one rider riding a posted closed trail.

I am guessing that there were other circumstances for the size of the ticket. We will get the whole story from Dakota County but I would guess he was on a hiking trail if nothing else.

Dakota is not alone, $100 fines and bike confiscations are done for riding in the bird sanctuary on the river bottom, and $100 fines and confiscations are also part of the rules for Three Rivers Parks. i.e. don't get caught poaching Murphy.

Currently riding in some other trails that are not offical trails in the Twin Cities can be classified as trespassing and those fines get even worse.

"Dakota County, or anyone else, playing the role of Trail **zi is total BS"

They are the legal authority in the parks and thus can set whatever rules and punishments the deem appropriate.

When the Parks go into the budget and see how much it costs them to fix trails used illegaly, they often come to the conclusion to just close the trail down completely and save themselves the trouble.

I believe the Parks are well within their right to hand out whatever size tickets they want, and more power to them. I do not agree with your point that "I know when a trail is rideable and when it's not...as do most experienced riders." I more often then not find the opposite true. "I am experienced enough that the rules do not apply to me"


"At the end of the day, who is best to discern what is rideable and what is not?"

Not to point fingers but, have you been to an IMBA Trail Schools? Had any training on trail design and Maintenance? Been asked by the parks to design trails in Three Rivers? Dakota County? Inver Grove Heights? Chequamegon National Forest?

I guess all I can do is invite you to come out sometime to a trail work session and get some experience on just how much work is involved in fixing problems caused by riders not following. Maybe it will change you mind a little.

[gopherhockey]

All I can say is, with 25 yards of bright orange fences and multiple trail closed signs, it takes a real idiot to still ride a trail. $140 fine steep? No way. If they could, I'd let Dakota County take people's birthday's away for being that stupid :shocked: - I don't care if it is due to trail conditions, weather, hunting, daylight or any other reason. Closed means closed. If someone is out there jeopardizing our efforts with the land managers because they have no regard for the efforts of others, they deserve everything they get (and more).

I'd like to think all riders will use proper judgement... but we never would have had to post signs and put up fences if this were completely the case. When signs are up and rules are posted I don't care if it is Tinker Juarez himself - keep off the mot$#(er f#(*ing trails ;)

Often times I think it is the rider who thinks they know more than everyone else ("experts") that are first to cross a fence. (I've been out there, I've seen it)

Sean, I am glad you posted. It is important to voice an opinion on these things no matter what it might be. You obviously support MORC and use your own common sense, so fines should never be an issue to you anyway. Thanks so much for being a MORC member and for posting your thoughts. Keep it up!

I encourage everyone out there to do the same!

[soupboy]

...thanks for your prompt responses. Make no mistake, riding closed trails is unacceptable. I'm not debating who's in charge either - Dakota County, DNR, the Feds, what have you. No, I have not gone to formal IMBA trail school. I wish I could participate in trail maintenance but I barely have time to ride. My cash contribution to IMBA and MORC is what I currently offer. Regardless, I do not need to defend my ability to discern a rideable trail from one that should be avoided until further notice. I digress.

I'll amend my prior post:

A $140 fine for poaching is excessive for a FIRST TIME offense. I'm not certain, but I'd venture to guess that there are many other lesser misdemeanors - speeding, vandalism (non-MTB trail), etc. - that likely carry lesser monetary punishment. Further, confiscating a bike in addition to the cash fine makes the punishment even less fitting.

The guy who brushes off someone who tells them point blank at the trailhead "...Do Not Ride..." is indeed an idiot. They should be punished. Not to debate the Dingo-economics, but I think more persistent and consistent fine doling, at lesser dollar amounts, will go a lot farther than nailing the random individual with a weighty fine. I know, I know, there aren't the man hours to police the trails 24/7 and there never will be.

I think the fines should at least be of the escalating variety.

--Sean

:etard:

[gopherhockey]

Hmmm.. I never mentioned the bike was confiscated. Sean - do you happen to know the individual or more about the incident? Dakota didn't say much more than fines were handed out... so I'm more curious for details than anything else.

As far as the fine itself goes...I guess it comes down to what makes people take notice. I probably wouldn't say $140 was a good or bad amount - I'm sure they have regulations (probably multiple in that one case) that brought the total up. I remember talking to one of the Dakota Park Patrol guys in the parking lot at Leb and he mentioned they don't often hand out $100 fines (he made it sound as if that was pretty steep) - I'm guessing it was to make an example or something and may not be the standard fine.... I'd almost guess the attitude of the person being ticketed may have weighed in on that as well.

I'd also be willing to bet fines won't end just because the fences have been removed either. Dakota knows how hard volunteers have worked, they are tired of hikers on the bike trails and bikers on hiker (or wet/closed) trails. I'd guess we may see more fines handed out, and not just to bikers. I did my best to challenge the park guy to give out at least a few.. :cool:

I'm also pretty sure Dakota will work with our trail steward on when the trail is wet enough to make tickets appropriate.. although I think in some places there is a standard 24-48 hour timeframe after a rainfall where fines can be handed out.

We'll see as the year goes on I guess... if I hear anything more I'll post it here.

Let me end by saying Dakota County ROCKS for what they have done for us thus far. I think we'd all agree on this one. By the way it sounds, we'll be adding more land managers to this list as the year goes on. What a great year for biking in Minnesota!

[soupboy]

...I do not personally know a rider that has had their bike kidnapped. Merely inferences from James' comments earlier in the thread and what I've heard from other riders as it relates to riding too far east on the River Bottoms (past Indian Mounds).

Sean:banana:

[SickBoy]

Sorry, but I have no sympathy for riders who go around orange fencing and posted "Trail Closed" signs to ride a trail they know will be muddy.

$140 is fine by me. For all I care, $1,000 is fine by me since I will never be in danger of getting such a fine.

I know you can't legislate common sense but seriously... at some point you can't be easy on people anymore.

[BrightYellow]

Well, I guess that the $140 fine is doing its job. If people hear that the fine is $140, then there will be a lot less poaching going on.

[Trevize1138]

Knowledge of that fine goes both ways, too. Yesterday I had to remind three walkers not to walk on the biking path! I said as I whizzed by, "You're not allowed to walk on the biking path. It's a $140 fine."

Adding that second statement gives the first statement a little more punch ;).

[yetirider]

The $140 fine does have an impact.

When I arrived in the parking lot Sat. morning, there were around 10 people standing around wondering if things were open or not. They had heard that the trails were open, but the BBoard there in the parking lot still said closed. On top of that, the story of the $140 fine had made it into this group, and they were all considering what to do...

With the large, bright orange "fences" blocking the trails, it is obviously closed if they are crossing the trail, but one mentioned that "hey, who knows who came by at 6:00 this morning and took them down or moved them to the side.."

Again, basic point, is that it does have an impact! It gets people to at least think about their actions, even if it is not for the good/bad for the trail, but good/bad for their wallets!!!! Risk vs. Reward...

[WISEGUY]

Not good!

There's lots of people getting their hair raised on this issue (myself included)! If it's too much work for the volunteers to maintain the trail, maybe they should pave it. It would be more durable, it could be open longer, and you wouldn't have to patrol it and hand out fines.

The local MTB "ecology" contains all sorts of riders. It's great that a certain "species" of rider wants to volunteer and upkeep the trails it to their liking. But there are other "species" out there (like myself) that like the challenge of riding in the mud and in difficult conditions, and don't agree with imposing trail fines to protect "volunteer" work. Volunteer trail work means more without the regulation stings attached.

Aren't there any other rebels out there who miss the old Lebanon Hills? I miss having a place to ride early in the season (Lebanon used to be the first place to ride during the season) and I miss hammrring in the big ring up and down the old roller coster trail. I think this was more challenging than negotiating those "speed bumps" on the new double black diamond most dificult trail.

I'm off my soapbox
.:o

[lou1s]

what are regulation stings?

eric

[yetirider]

What we are dealing with here is more than the volunteers and protecting their trailwork. It is not that they are specifically looking out for their singular purpose. (I say "their", because I too have yet to join them ':embarass:') I for one applaud their efforts. They could be putting their efforts to work on private land, for only their benefit, not sharing their labor with others!!!!! But they don't, they provide new trails for all of us to ride on!!! And for that, the COUNTY along with MORC and IMBA, simply asks for certain behaviors from the local mtn. bike community! (the kicker is that the county can enforce it!)

We are dealing partly with public perception and ever increasing pressure that reduces our opportunities to ride. (I say partly, because I do stongly believe in a balance between riding and maintaining the natural habitat) Unfortunately, the sight of damaged eroding trails resulting from mountain biking by no means supports what I believe to be our (the local mtn. bike "ecology") goals. I agree, rocks, mud, rain etc. etc. make for some fun riding, and we have all done it at some point, but at what cost? Damage to the trails and to public perception...

I have seen amazing trails in southern California, closed indefinately since the few that chose to ignore the no riding for 2 days following rain regulations (since, "hey, a $25 fine is worth it!!!"), did such extensive damage that the counties decided it wasn't even worth patrolling to hand out tickets... They also patrol some of the areas with speed guns, giving tickets to people riding "dangerously" fast?? I don't think that is where we want to go... If it means that I am asked to not ride in the mud, so be it, I will be back to have a great ride another day!

This ALL results, by no means from the majority of riders, nor do I think it results from riders questioning these fines on this site, it results from the minority, the <1% of riders that feel that they are above the regulations... and in general feel that they are above the rest of us as well. This is what the "public" reads about. This is generally what they know of our mtn. biking community. And this small fraction of riders is who the $140 fine is truly aimed at!

Now I know the "paving" comment was not meant litterally. But look at that possibility??? That is the option that many of the parks have taken and how many of us utilize that option??? Very few I would guess... Unfortunately, riding illegally, will result in paved trails being the primary option over time!

Well, off my soap box for now...

[gopherhockey]

I do apologize that the fences were removed but the sign that I posted on the bulletin board at the trailhead got removed. I pasted it over Dakota's trail closed sign in hopes they would post it inside, but they (or someone else) must have removed it.

I can see that being confusing and not fair... I'm glad people still questioned it even though the fences were down. Hopefully there were enough people in the parking lot to let everyone else know the trails were open.

Hey - if you are ever in the lot with others that seem confused on issues such as this, give them our web site address and tell them to check in. I think the more people we get to the trail conditions page and these trail forums the better. I often just assume everyone knows to check our web site, but the majority out there probably have never been here or do not know where to go.

I'm glad people are talking about this. I agree the majority of us want to keep our trails open and in good conditions. We're willing to wait that extra couple of weeks so that our trails aren't damaged or closed. We want land managers to want us on their trails, and we want them to pass the word along to others that we are responsible and are worthy of new trails in their parks.

Keep it up! I enjoy reading both sides.... (although I will never understand why anyone liked Lebanon the way it used to be... :confused: )

[WISEGUY]

What I meant by the phrase "regulation strings attached" was the volunteers' need to protect their trail work with fences and fines. It's not truelly donated work then.

I hope we don't get too wrapped up in the "how we ride the trail" as to "why we ride the trail."

I liked the old Lebanon hills for steep climbs and speed.

:)

[gopherhockey]

Originally posted by WISEGUY
What I meant by the phrase "regulation strings attached" was the volunteers' need to protect their trail work with fences and fines. It's not truelly donated work then.



Not sure I follow this. We put up fences at Lebanon in agreement with Dakota County as a method of closing the trails. They donated the fence, we donated the labor, they get any $ from fines (we don't see a dime). Still seems like truely donated work... I was going to say unfortunate that we have to do it, but without other signs posted it really is the only fair way to let riders know it is closed.

I like your thought on not getting caught up in this though. It is an interesting topic, I enjoy seeing what people think. Thanks for your thoughts!

Even though I STILL think you are crazy for liking the old Lebanon... ;)

[KleinCrazy]

I'll agree with John to encourage hearing both sides as it lets us better understand where the community is.

I liked the old Lebanon hills for steep climbs and speed.

I can also understand this, unfortunatly we do not live in a state with the terrain that will alow for sustainable trails of this type to be built.

Steep climbs and Long downhill speed is easy to do when you are wooking with 2000 feet of elevation as you can build a trail that conforms to standard and can hold up to water. When you are working with 200 feet of elevation your out of luck. You have to build different kinds of trails or loose them all together.

Sorry, but that is just the facts.

I will gladly listen to any ideas you might have to make it possible, but I have yet to hear any.

Just remember, the trails might be changing, but if they hadn't they would have been gone all together and then where would you have ridden?

[BrightYellow]

Just remember, the trails might be changing, but if they hadn't they would have been gone all together and then where would you have ridden?

I completely agree with the above statement. I used to love the fast descents and big climbs at Lebanon, it was a great training course. But honestly, how long could that have been maintained? Every year they were dumping more class V on the trail and every year it was washing out more and more. It wouldn't have been long before they would have had to close it, just because of maintenance costs.

You want big descents and big climbs? See if you can get Buck or Afton to build them for ya. Then you can pay them to maintain it too.

And, thinking back, I used to just ride Lebanon to train, I never really enjoyed it. I was never like, "Hey, let's go ride Lebanon for fun!". There wasn't anything to it - 3 climbs, one descent... round and around you go. Now with the changes that have been made, it's my favorite metro trail. I can't wait for the new section to open!

[SickBoy]

If you want a trail to destroy while riding in the rain, no one's stopping you from building your own.

Personally I think the way Lebanon used to be was fun because it was fast but that was about it. Not challenging IMHO. The new trail isn't -much- more challenging (I haven't been on the new XX loop though) but it's way more interesting.

If you want to ride fast for training, get a road bike.

[Trevize1138]

I'm jumping on the "Old Lebannon Sux!" bandwagon!

:)

I even disagree with the notion it used to be a better workout. You got maybe 2 minutes of really hard cardio as you cranked up those damn hills, then the rest of it's just bombing down rutted-out, wide, mostly straight trail. And, it was just over two miles per loop!

The new trail's longer and more consistant. I'd say you get a better workout because you're keeping your level of cardio work up there for longer periods of time and more often. And, if you want speed, that last winding downhill can provide it plenty if you can hang the corners well enough ;).

Still, at least I can understand the desire to bomb down big hills better than I can understand why *anybody* would actually want to ride in mud!

[gopherhockey]

I am now asking myself how can a person build a trail to make (almost) all riders happy, yet still stick to IMBA standards for sustainable trails.

I suppose the easy answer is "you can't!"

But still, I wonder if there are things we could do differently. What I mean is, there apparently is some joy in the hard climb. I had originally thought the new bypass (as an example) would basically replace the 2 old gravel hills (Curly and Moe) by becoming a gradual but longer climb rather than a short abrupt climb. I have heard plenty say they miss the old hills... so it seems obvious that a gradual lengthy hill is no replacement. (or is it, as Chris points out you can get the same or better workout the way it is now..)

Besides compromising our trail building "rules" so to speak... do those of you that enjoy a good climb have any thoughts?

Again, I know we can't please everyone all the time.. but it would be a good challenge to us to try find a way to still build in some of what perhaps is missing now at Lebanon. Andy mentions the XX loop - what a good chance for us to find a way to have interesting and chellenging all rolled into one if at all possible.

As it is right now, the xx loop is really more of an intermediate loop with slightly more difficult challenge areas. Unlike the current expert loop that is tighter, it is more flowing and faster.

We have a climb with some rocks that will force you to have a good rythm to make it through - but this is just a small area - once you are through it, the trail once again winds around fast and flowing. We'll have some elevated bridges, but again this isn't necessarily challenging terrain. About the only thing about the xx loop that is a climb is the very last section leaving the loop and going back out to the existing trail - but even then we are staying within IMBA standard percentages (nothing really over 12% I believe)

I think we are making a good effort, but we still have a chance to get some input. Maybe we can't have it all... but maybe we can try come as close as possible :p

[jjrsds]

If you want more hills or climbs you might want to consider moving to an area with higher elevations. The topography of lebanon is basicly gently rolling terrain. You can't develop mountains in the middle of prairie or forest areas. Minnesota is relativly flat, with some areas around rivers or major lakes that have substantial elevation changes. MORC and IMBA's goal is to build sustainable and enjoyable trails. They will never be perfect for everyone so if you don't like or enjoy the trails find some place else to ride. Memorial, Holzingers, LaCrosse and areas around Lake Superior, might be closer to what you might like. I like ridding in muddy conditions, but I choose not to due to the problems it causes and the work that was done to build the trail. It is good to have a forum to express ideas, concerns and problems. I hope this isn't to harsh just wanted to submit my opinions on what I have been reading the past couple of days.

[Sully]

I totally agree with Dakota County and the fines being handed out for poaching the trail. If you can't wait till May 1 to ride these trails, (like the posted signs and this web site says), there's something wrong.

[martini]

I have to be honest. Prior to the new trails being put in, I had completely forgotten where Lebanon Hills was. That's how bored I was with two miles loops that were about as challenging as eating a plain rice cake. Boooorrrrring! I agree with Sully as well. Hold yer britches for a few days, let the mud dry out. It's no fun to ride a rutted trail that's all dry. I'm fine with the fines too, it won't effect me as I won't (wouldn't)be out there anyways.

If you're looking for the big terrain, the only place to really get it is teh North Shore(our version of it). LaCrosse's riding is pretty limited, even with all those Coulee's down there, they're just having an access problem. If they could open up more trail though, it'd be a fabulous place to hit up. I've done a bit of road riding down there, and if that's any indication, man, the off-roading would be fantastic as well.

[Hardtailforever]

I've been riding around the twin cities and am just getting into the trail-work/maintenence thing. I've seen Lebanon change from a big ball of suck to loads of fun in only two seasons. It made me think about what I'm getting around here. I still enjoy hard climbing- to me that's real physical challenge. However, it's fun to wind around in the woods, jumping over logs and rocks. So here's what I think of Lebanon:

I look at Lebanon as a playground. I enjoy riding there, and the trails are consistantly in great shape, considering how many people ride there now. Kudos to the morc crew for that. Also, Kudos to you guys for designing a trail where I can pull into a lot completely packed with people, bikes and cars and not see more than two people on the loop while I'm riding. I can't think of another trail around here where that is as true as at Lebanon. I think part of the reason is that it has no really steep, techincal climbs or descents. There's no real bottleneck for less advanced riders to get stuck, so you don't see people crowded at the bottom or a steep climb waiting their turn. That's part of why Lebanon is so smooth. People can just keep zooming along and enjoy the obstacle course.

Because of the lack of topography, it will never be my favourite trail in the TC area. But I like riding there because it's fun, and because I can ride with people with better or worse endurance, or more or less skill, and everyone can still have fun and stay together. When I want to really ride, I hit Battle Creek, or Murphey, or the Farm, where I can get some serious up-and-down action, and I can tackle more challenging topography. Most of my less serious mtb friends don't like that sort of thing, so I can't ride those places with them.

Lebanon fills a niche, and I think its important to remember that we need playgrounds as much as we need knee-mashing loops of lactic-acid death.:crazy:

[gopherhockey]

Originally posted by Hardtailforever
I've seen Lebanon change from a big ball of suck to loads of fun in only two seasons.

You made me choke on my coffee this morning when I read this.. too funny. (but true) :laugh:

Nice comments everyone! Keep em' coming...

[TrailPatrol]

Originally posted by WISEGUY
a certain "species" of rider wants to volunteer and upkeep the trails it to their liking. But there are other "species" out there (like myself) that like the challenge of riding in the mud and in difficult conditions, and don't agree with imposing trail fines to protect "volunteer" work.

And there is yet another "species" out there, adorned in shades of green or blue that will ticket your butt when you ride on those trails.

I'm sorry, but that quote is a totally selfish statement that shows no respect for the hard work of the volunteers who built the trail, no understanding of "minimum impact" mountain biking, and no concern for the future of the sport. If the trails get torn up, they will be closed. If they are closed because of the actions of a selfish few, we will all loose. But what should they care?

I am not much of a "singletracker". Yeah, if I am riding with James or the guys from MARS, I ride singletrack, but I prefer the trails like you find on the CAMBA system, or in the Chippewa and Superior National Forests. I'm not begrudging anyone who wants the challenge of tight, technical singletrack. Me, I prefer to "Explore on Two Wheels".

One of my roles, as a National Mountain Bike Patroller is educate people about responsible riding. One of my duties as a member of the the Backcountry Trail Patrol member is to teach Leave No Trace ethics and skills to the biking community. Although it won't mean much to that certain "species" here goes:

"Leave No Trace" Outdoor Ethics"

Plan Ahead and Prepare
Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
Dispose of Waste Properly
Leave What You Find
Minimize Campfire Impacts
Respect Wildlife
Be Considerate of Other Visitors
(c) NOLS/LNT

Tread Lightly's Guide to Responsible Mountain Biking

Obtain a map of the area you wish to explore and determine which areas are open for use.

Contact the land manager for area restrictions and if crossing private property, be sure to ask permission from the land owner.

Check the weather forecast.

Prepare for the unexpected by packing a small backpack full of emergency items.

Safety on the trail:

Wear a helmet, eye protection and other safety gear.
Buddy up with two or three riders as riding solo can leave you vulnerable if you have an accident or breakdown.
Drinking and riding don't mix.

Rules and common courtesy:

Be considerate of others on the road or trail.
Ride only where permitted.
Leave gates as you find them.
Yield the right of way to those passing or traveling uphill.
Pack out what you pack in.
Remember, designated wilderness areas are reserved for the most primitive outdoor adventure.

Minimum impact camping:

Select lightweight equipment, possibly in earth-tone colors that will blend with the surroundings.
Use existing campsites whenever possible.
Avoid building fires.
Negotiating terrain
When climbing, shift to a gear that provides comfortable forward momentum and maintains traction.
When descending, apply enough brake to maintain control, but avoid locking your bike's wheels.
Avoid trails that are obviously wet and muddy to avoid trail damage.
Cross streams slowly, at a 90-degree angle to the stream. Walking may be preferable as stream bottoms are often slippery.

(c) Tread Lightly

IMBA Rules of the Trail

The way we ride today shapes mountain bike trail access tomorrow . Do your part to preserve and enhance our sport's access and image by observing the following rules of the trail, formulated by IMBA, the International Mountain Bicycling Association. These rules are recognized around the world as the standard code of conduct for mountain bikers. IMBA's mission is to promote mountain bicycling that is environmentally sound and socially responsible.

1. Ride On Open Trails Only.
Respect trail and road closures (ask if uncertain); avoid trespassing on private land; obtain permits or other authorization as may be required. Federal and state Wilderness areas are closed to cycling. The way you ride will influence trail management decisions and policies.

2. Leave No Trace.
Be sensitive to the dirt beneath you. Recognize different types of soils and trail construction; practice low-impact cycling. Wet and muddy trails are more vulnerable to damage. When the trailbed 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.

3. Control Your Bicycle!
Inattention for even a second can cause problems. Obey all bicycle speed regulations and recommendations.

4. Always Yield Trail.
Let your fellow trail users know you're coming. A friendly greeting or bell is considerate and works well; don't startle others. Show your respect when passing by slowing to a walking pace or even stopping. Anticipate other trail users around corners or in blind spots. Yielding means slow down, establish communication, be prepared to stop if necessary and pass safely.

5. Never Scare Animals.
All animals are startled by an unannounced approach, a sudden movement, or a loud noise. This can be dangerous for you, others, and the animals. Give animals extra room and time to adjust to you. When passing horses use special care and follow directions from the horseback riders (ask if uncertain). Running cattle and disturbing wildlife is a serious offense. Leave gates as you found them, or as marked.

6. Plan Ahead.
Know your equipment, your ability, and the area in which you are riding -- and prepare accordingly. Be self-sufficient at all times, keep your equipment in good repair, and carry necessary supplies for changes in weather or other conditions. A well-executed trip is a satisfaction to you and not a burden to others. Always wear a helmet and appropriate safety gear.
Keep trails open by setting a good example of environmentally sound and socially responsible off-road cycling.
(c) IMBA

'Nuf said,
Hans

[Trevize1138]

This is simply a great discussion. I'm glad to see that the majority of riders understand the need to care for the trails so all can enjoy. I think there will always be a few out there who will selfishly say "screw you all, I do what I want" and the rest of us just have to make sure we make them pay for their lack of foresight.

Seems to me this sport of off-road biking is maturing, and trail maintenance and respect for others is becoming akin to how people regard golf courses. Do you ride your golf cart across the green? Do you ride your *mountain bike* across a green?

Dirt erodes, and because of that dirt trails take a lot of work to maintain. Obeying some simple rules and guidelines that help keep the trail sustained for all is the *least* a rider is expected to do because we're all on the trails together.