Shared Use Trail Etiquette
The best thing you can do when using the trails is to remember the 'Golden Rule':
"Treat others the way you would want to be treated."
Here are some key points of shared use trail etiquette for the Jackrabbit, Piney Knob, and Ramsey Bluff Trail Systems:
- Know your right of way. Hikers coming uphill have the right of way. If you’re descending the trail, step aside and give space to the people climbing up.
- Bicyclists yield to hikers. Come to a full stop and step to the side to give the right of way. Be mindful of the plants or animals that are near the trail if you must step off the trail. Bicyclists should always ride within their abilities.
- No ATVs or other motorized vehicles allowed on the Jackrabbit or Piney Knob Trail Systems.
- No horses or other pack animals allowed on the Jackrabbit or Piney Knob Trail Systems.
- Handicap Accessibility: Unfortunately, these trails are not handicap accessible.
- Make yourself known. When you encounter other hikers and trail users, offer a friendly “hello” or a simple head nod. This helps create a friendly atmosphere on the trail. If you approach another trail user from behind, announce yourself in a friendly, calm tone and let him/her know you want to pass.
- Stay on the trail. Don’t step off trail unless you absolutely must when yielding. Going off trail can damage or kill certain plant or animal species, and can hurt the ecosystems that surround the trail. Always practice Leave No Trace principles: Leave rocks, vegetation, and artifacts where you find them for others to enjoy.
- Preserve the streams. Do not enter the stream bed for any reason. We have worked hard to restore these streams.
- Do not disturb wildlife. They need their space, and you need yours, too. Keep your distance from the wildlife you encounter.
- Be mindful of trail conditions. If a trail is too wet and muddy, turn back and save the hike for another day. Using a muddy trail can be dangerous, damage the trail’s condition, and damage the ecosystems that surround the trail.
- Take time to listen. When hiking in the great outdoors, let nature do all the talking. Be respectful of both nature and the other users, and keep the noise from electronic devices at bay.
- Pets. Dogs are allowed as long as they are on leash.
- No Camping or Fires. No Camping or Fires. Unfortunately, camping is not allowed within the trail system properties. There are other campsites around area. Please check with the U.S.F.S or area Chambers of Commerce for a list of campsites.
- Pack out your trash – Please follow the Leave No Trace guideline “Pack it in, Pack it out”
Mailing Address
Southern Appalachian Bicycle Association
PO Box 542
Hayesville, NC 28904
Let's Get Social
Support
The Southern Appalachian Bicycle Association is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization and donations are tax deductible. Federal Tax ID #37-1475059.
You must be logged in to post a comment.