As spring brings warmer weather, more Californians are enjoying outdoor activities on the state’s multi-use trails, such as the American River Parkway. To ensure safety and harmony, trail users should follow etiquette guidelines: bicyclists generally yield to hikers and horseback riders, hikers yield to horseback riders, and hikers going uphill have the right-of-way over those going downhill. Users should communicate clearly, stay to the right when passing, walk single file in groups, and be courteous with greetings or alerts like “on your left” for passing.

Trail users are also urged to stay alert for other people, wildlife, and natural hazards, while respecting wildlife by keeping a safe distance and avoiding off-trail excursions that can damage ecosystems. Bicyclists should control their speed, and all visitors should avoid disturbing the environment by staying on designated trails and refraining from building unauthorized paths or features. Maintaining respect for nature and fellow trail users helps preserve the trails’ safety, beauty, and ecological health.