New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation
The Office
of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (State Parks) today announced a
new trail etiquette initiative launching to ensure public safety on the
agency’s over 2,000 miles of trails statewide, including the 750-mile Empire
State Trail and the many locally managed trails it encompasses. The initiative
offers New York residents and visitors contemporary, common-sense tips to
safely navigate busy trails being aware of the wide variety of trail users and
occasional intersections.
“Regardless
of whether you walk, run, ride a bike, operate a wheelchair, walk a leashed
pet, push a stroller, or cross-country ski, New York State Parks wants to
ensure all trailgoers are aware of their surroundings and share our beloved
trails with courtesy and safety in mind,” said New York State Parks Commissioner
Pro Tempore Randy Simons. “We
all want to get outside and enjoy all that New York has to offer, and small
actions can mean the difference between a memorable fall day on the trail or a
trip to urgent care.”
State Parks’
new trail etiquette initiative consists of four main principles:
·
Wear
a helmet: All
cyclists should wear a properly sized bike helmet, with the strap buckled.
Under New York State law, those under age 14 are required to wear an
appropriate helmet
·
Be
courteous and aware: Because the
trail is enjoyed by a variety of users, ages and abilities, visitors should be
aware of the activity around them.
·
All users,
especially groups and those with children, should stay to the right and
maintain a clear path for passing.
·
Cyclists
must slow down for other trail users, use a bell or call out to alert others,
and pass safely on the left.
·
When
stopping or taking a break, move to the side and avoid blocking the trail.
·
Leashed
dogs can make sudden movements and startle other trail users. Dog walkers must
keep their pet under control at all times.
·
See
and be seen: Cyclists
are encouraged to ride defensively. Stopping at all intersections to check for
oncoming traffic before safely crossing is advised.
·
Follow
electric bike rules: Electric-assist
bicycles, or e-bikes, are legal to use across the state. However, government
entities and trail owners can place restrictions on the types and places they
may be used. In most locations e-scooters, one-wheels, and higher-speed e-bikes
are prohibited. On road, Class I and Class II e-bikes are permitted where the
posted speed is 30 mph or less. It is the responsibility of the rider to know
where and what types of e-bikes are allowed and to operate them in a safe
manner.
The
Empire Trail welcomes bicyclists and walkers of all ages and abilities to
experience the Empire State’s urban centers, village main streets, rural
communities, and diverse history, from New York City through the Hudson River
Valley, west to Buffalo along the Erie Canal, and north to the Champlain Valley
and Adirondacks.
New York State Canal Corporation Director Brian
U. Stratton said, “The Erie and Champlain
Canalway Trails are multi-use trails that offer walkers, joggers, and cyclists
an incredible way to exercise and recreate across the Upstate New York. For the
safety of all trail users, I encourage everyone to follow the guiding principles
set forth in this new initiative as it will ensure a more enjoyable experience
for all.”
Parks & Trails New York Executive Director
Paul Steely White said, “We need your help keeping
greenway trails safe and accessible for all New Yorkers–cyclists and
pedestrians alike. Safe trails require more than just clear pathways and
signage, they are built on the cooperation and understanding of each and every
individual on the trail. Stay safe and keep others safe by following trailway
rules and always yielding to those around you.”
The
New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation oversees
more than 250 parks, historic sites, recreational trails, golf courses, boat
launches and more, which saw a record 84 million visits in 2023. For more
information on any of these recreation areas, visit parks.ny.gov, download the free NY
State Parks Explorer app or call 518.474.0456. Join us in celebrating our Centennial
throughout 2024, and connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), the OPRHP Blog
or via the OPRHP
Newsroom.
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