| The following is the official list of mountain biking | | | | on existing trails and not creating new ones. Don't cut |
| rules of the trail from IMBA, otherwise known as the | | | | switchbacks. Be sure to pack out at least as much as |
| International Mountain Bicycling Association. | | | | you pack in. |
| These mountain bike rules are designed to minimize | | | | 3. Control Your Bicycle! |
| our impact on our environment as well as promote | | | | Inattention for even a second can cause problems. |
| friendly relationships between all trail users by | | | | Obey all bicycle speed regulations and |
| creating a safe environment for us all. By following | | | | recommendations. |
| these rules we help ensure our access to trails in our | | | | 4. Always Yield Trail. |
| local communities will continue and hopefully grow. | | | | Let your fellow trail users know you're coming. A |
| Every mountain biker should know and live by these | | | | friendly greeting or bell is considerate and works well; |
| mountain biking rules from IMBA: | | | | don't startle others. Show your respect when passing |
| Rules of the Trail | | | | by slowing to a walking pace or even stopping. |
| The way we ride today shapes mountain bike trail | | | | Anticipate other trail users around corners or in blind |
| access tomorrow. Do your part to preserve and | | | | spots. Yielding means slow down, establish |
| enhance our sport's access and image by observing | | | | communication, be prepared to stop if necessary and |
| the following rules of the trail, formulated by IMBA, | | | | pass safely. |
| the International Mountain Bicycling Association. | | | | 5. Never Scare Animals. |
| These rules are recognized around the world as the | | | | All animals are startled by an unannounced approach, |
| standard code of conduct for mountain bikers. IMBA's | | | | a sudden movement, or a loud noise. This can be |
| mission is to promote mountain bicycling that is | | | | dangerous for you, others, and the animals. Give |
| environmentally sound and socially responsible. | | | | animals extra room and time to adjust to you. When |
| 1. Ride On Open Trails Only. | | | | passing horses use special care and follow directions |
| Respect trail and road closures - ask if uncertain; | | | | from the horseback riders - ask if uncertain. Running |
| avoid trespassing on private land; obtain permits or | | | | cattle and disturbing wildlife is a serious offense. |
| other authorization as may be required. Federal and | | | | Leave gates as you found them, or as marked. |
| state Wilderness areas are closed to cycling. The | | | | 6. Plan Ahead. |
| way you ride will influence trail management decisions | | | | Know your equipment, your ability, and the area in |
| and policies. | | | | which you are riding -- and prepare accordingly. Be |
| 2. Leave No Trace. | | | | self-sufficient at all times, keep your equipment in |
| Be sensitive to the dirt beneath you. Recognize | | | | good repair, and carry necessary supplies for changes |
| different types of soils and trail construction; practice | | | | in weather or other conditions. A well-executed trip is |
| low-impact cycling. Wet and muddy trails are more | | | | a satisfaction to you and not a burden to others. |
| vulnerable to damage. When the trailbed is soft, | | | | Always wear a helmet and appropriate safety gear. |
| consider other riding options. This also means staying | | | | |