Trail Etiquette
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Open Legal Trails, Only.
Ride only open and legal trails. These are signed, designated routes with proper access. If in doubt, it’s probably not a legit trail. Also, no ‘off trail’ or cross country travel is allowed on the Grand Mesa Uncompahgre Gunnison (GMUG) National Forest. Just because there is a faint trail doesn’t mean it is legal for you to ride it.
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No trespassing!
No trespassing! Most private property is signed but even if it isn’t – it is your responsibility to know it is private.
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Close Gates.
Leave all gates that you find closed, closed. Look at them before you open them and put them back the way you found them. This helps keeps ranchers happy, cattle safe and many places ungrazed and pristine!
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Leave wildlife alone.
Don’t chase wildlife or livestock, ever. And don’t feed them.
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Yield to Hikers & Bikers
Yield to hikers, They have the right of way. Yield to bikers, It is a lot easier for you to move off the trail and it keeps the trail single. Additionally it prevents unnecessary dust for them and helps build relationships between us all!
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Dont ride muddy trails
Don’t ride trails that are a total mud-fest. If you leave a tire imprint, you probably shouldn’t be riding that trail. Imprints will dry tp ruts which lead to rough conditions for all. If you find spots of mud or snow, just walk through. Don’t make a new trail around.
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'Bathroom' etiquette.
Don’t use the trail or campsites for a bathroom. Go before you go out, or walk 100 big steps from the trail, campsites, and all water, dig a hole and bury it at least 6″ under! A rock works great to dig with if you don’t have a shovel. Check out www.PACTOutdoors.com for an awesome all-in-one bathroom kit (created by a local!)
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Yield to uphill riders.
Yield to uphill riders. When you yield, stop, lean your bike off the trail and put a foot down. Don’t ride off the trail making another trail.
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Be friendly out there – always.
A smile and good manners go a long way. Check on others in the backcountry, offer a hand to those in need, move trail blocks when able. DO YOUR PART!