Trail Safety

The City of DuPont has many recreational trails and multi-use pathways throughout the community.

Our city trails and walkways not only connect people to their friends and neighbors but also provide a passageway for passive enjoyment of our diverse and rich environment. Before venturing out onto our trails, please take a few moments to review the following trail safety and general use guidelines.

Trail Safety Guidelines

HOURS

TRAIL USE RULES

WHAT TO WEAR

TRAIL HAZARDS

PERSONAL SAFETY  

WALKING/RUNNING

BICYCLING

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HOURS

  • City parks and trails are open from dawn to dusk. (DMC 10.03)
  • Be aware of the time of day when planning to be at a park or out on the trails. Don't lose track of time and pay attention to changing daylight conditions during fall and winter months.

TRAIL USE RULES

  • Be aware that emergency, law enforcement, and parks maintenance motorized vehicles are allowed on the pathway. No other motorized vehicles are allowed (except wheelchairs).
  • No fires, alcohol or fireworks are allowed on city trails.
  • Any person bicycling or riding as a bicycle passenger shall wear an approved bicycle helmet and have either the neck or chin strap of the helmet fastened securely while the bicycle is in motion.
  • Skateboards, scooters and roller skates/in-line skates are prohibited on striped streets within the city, but are allowed on sidewalks and paved public paths. Helmets must be worn as required for bicycles.
  • You must pick up and properly dispose of your dog's waste.
  • Dogs must be on a leash and under control at all times.
  • Keep your dog on a short lead that doesn't extend across the path, causing a biker or skater to fall or forcing other pedestrian users to maneuver off the trail.
  • Do not litter. Collect and properly dispose of all garbage (food packages, water bottles, etc.)
  • All other City of DuPont Municipal Code and State laws apply to our trails.

WHAT TO WEAR

  • Dress appropriately for the location, time of year and planned activities.
  • Wear sunglasses and a hat or visor during sunny weather.
  • Wear reflective material in the early morning or evening. (Trail hours are dawn to dusk.)
  • Bicyclists and skaters should wear a properly fitted helmet. A helmet is the single most effective way to prevent head injury resulting from a fall or crash.

TRAIL HAZARDS

  • Be aware of potential trail hazards such as loose gravel, broken glass, holes, ruts and low-hanging branches.
  • Trail conditions can vary depending on the time of year. Flooded or muddy areas can be hazardous and should be avoided.
  • Keep your distance from wildlife.
  • Do not feed wildlife.

PERSONAL SAFETY

  • Walk, run or ride with a partner or a dog.
  • If you are alone on the trails, avoid unfamiliar areas.
  • Let someone know where you will be and when you intend to return.
  • Carry a cell phone or know where telephones are in the area.
  • Be aware of your surroundings at all times.
  • Trust your instincts and avoid areas where you feel uncomfortable.
  • Report suspicious behavior to the Police by calling 911.
  • If you wear headphones while on the trail, try to keep them at a volume that allows you to hear others around you.
  • If you need assistance or encounter someone else needing assistance, call 911.

WALKING/RUNNING

  • Be courteous to other trail users.
  • Allow other trail users to pass.
  • When in a group, avoid blocking the trail.
  • Stay alert. Slower moving individuals may be startled by faster moving trail users.
  • Make your presence known to other trail users well in advance, particularly when approaching from behind.
  • Enjoy, but don't disturb wildlife and natural surroundings. Be a good steward of nature.
  • Stay on designated trails. Prevent injury to one's self and damage to natural resources by staying on designated trails.

BICYCLING

  • Be courteous to other trail users.
  • Make sure your bike is in good mechanical condition.
  • Ride in control and stay to the right when practical.
  • Bicyclists should yield to pedestrians and obey all traffic regulations.
  • When cycling on street to a trail, cyclists must ride in the same direction as traffic.
  • Slow down when approaching other trail users or street crossings.
  • At busy intersections, walk your bike.
  • Control your speed at all times.
  • Do not block the trail - pull off the trail when stopping.
  • Slowly approach blind turns in anticipation of other trail users and obstacles beyond your view.
  • Use a bell or horn or call out when passing others.
  • To be noticed when riding in the evening, use a front light and a red reflector or flashing rear light and use retro-reflective tape or markings on equipment or clothing.