Behave with respect and courtesy to others on trails built for pedestrians and bicycles.
That’s the message from Summit Metro Parks rangers, who are asking users of the Bike & Hike, Freedom and Towpath trails to follow these simple guidelines:
-Be Courteous: All trail users should be respectful of others regardless of speed, skill level or mode of travel (i.e., bicycle, wheelchair or on foot).
-Pass on the Left: Pass other trail users on their left. Give an audible signal before passing, either by voice (e.g., “On Your Left!”) or other means (e.g., ringing a bell). Pay special attention when passing children and pets.
-Stopping: Move to the right when stopping. If possible, exit the trail. Be cautious of others approaching from behind and make sure they know you are pulling over.
-Be Predictable: Travel in a consistent and predictable manner. Always look behind you before changing positions.
-Don’t Block the Trail: Use no more than half of the trail. Do not block the flow of other users.
-Obey All Traffic Signs and Signals: Use extra caution where trails cross streets. Stop at all signs and intersections. When entering or crossing a trail, yield to other users.
In addition, on every trail managed by Summit Metro Parks, dogs must be on leashes no more than 8 feet long. Mutt Mitts are provided in many high-usage areas to help visitors clean up after their pets. (Note: Dogs are not permitted at F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm.)
Summit Metro Parks manages the 34-mile Bike & Hike Trail, which travels southeast from Sagamore Hills into Munroe Falls and Stow; 22.4 miles of the north-to-south Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail in Summit County; and the 6.2-mile Freedom Trail, which travels west from Middlebury Road near the Portage County line to Eastwood Avenue in Akron.
For more information, call 330–867–5511 or visit summitmetroparks.org.