Multi Use Trail Considerations
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By Lora Goerlich
Multi Use Trails – A Last Resort
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“Trail Series I & II (below) are after the fact concepts culminating from years of unresolved trail conflict that has negatively affected equestrians. Multi use trails should always be a last resort, and IF paring uses is unavoidable, agencies have a fundamental obligation to proactively protect equestrian trail riders since they are the most at risk. The most common and dangerous conflicts occur between equestrian trail riders and wheeled users who do not follow proper right of way; another dangerous conflict occurs between equestrians and unleashed dogs. Creating and maintaining equestrian trail exclusivity is justifiable. Non-equestrian out number horseback riders by
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When designating trails, it is important to consider that hikers, cyclists, equestrian trail riders and off-road sports all have different trail use expectations; their experiences, and the way they use public land are not the same. The best foundation for equestrians is to have access to exclusive trails or trails that are paired with compatible uses (hiking). Agencies must commit to prioritizing ongoing education, including enforcement for all users about safe trail use protocol and park rules, especially where there are horse trails. Keeping trail users safe and reducing liability requires more than posting trail signs, then expecting everyone to “just get along.”
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"Multiuse Trail Consideration Model created in 2019.”
(Sharing is permitted in an unedited, original form with all contexts and credit intact)
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Multiuse Trails Part I - Enforceable Rules
"Multiuse trail issues began in the late1970’s as wheeled use became more affordable and popular. Many parks were not prepared for the sudden upheaval in conflict between horse riders, cyclists, and sometimes off-road vehicles. Fortunately, there are parks who have taken a proactive approach and addressed the safety issue by rewriting their rules to include trail right of way.
Here is a great rule example from Metroparks of Toledo*:
"Multi-Trail Use Right of Way
When trail conditions require a right of way for safe passage, horse riders have the primary right of way, hikers next and then cyclists while on park district property trails. (MM)”
If explicit rules are absent there are most likely other enforceable rules that could be used and interpreted to protect the safety of park visitors. Officer availability and discretion to educate and enforce can create another challenging layer. Trail right of way (trail courtesy, trail etiquette) is not a new phenomenon."
The BEST universal standard for multi-purpose trails
Multiuse Trails Part II - Outside the Box
There is a wealth of trail etiquette and safety information available on social media and the internet. However, the key issue is ensuring that this information effectively reaches the intended audience, as much of it is not generated by park agencies. Establishing new partnerships can serve as a solid foundation for enhancing safety on the trails, benefiting a wide range of users. While it is essential for the responsible agency to lead safety campaigns there are numerous opportunities for collaboration with diverse groups. Below are seven innovative ideas for trail groups and riders looking to engage in collaborative efforts.
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1. Reach out to local bike, ORV, hiking clubs and their retailers, speak at one or more of their events, bring a horse(s) to use in a demonstration.
2. Partner with other user groups to promote safety on their social media pages; informational videos and infographics are easy to share.
3. Request increased ranger presence on high use days in areas known to have high conflict.
4. Create easy to read visual etiquette brochures for nearby retail shops to hand out with new equipment purchases.
5. Find an advocate to help. Are any horse trail riders in your membership also cyclists or off-road enthusiasts? Are they willing to advocate for safe trail right of way within that group?
6. Organize a trail ride for non-equestrian groups and park staff at a local guided ride facility. Consider donating part of the expense to encourage attendance, then have a picnic afterwards. The livery stable may be willing to negotiate a lower rate for an event like this.
7. Volunteer for a workday with different user groups."