IMBA developed the "Rules of the Trail" to promote responsible and courteous conduct on shared-use trails. Keep in mind that conventions for yielding and passing may vary in different locations, or with traffic conditions. Additional notes and clarifications for North East Ohio (NEO) are provided by CAMBA in red italic.

Ride Open Trails. Respect trail and road closures (ask a land manager for clarification if you are uncertain about the status of a trail.) Do not trespass on private (or public) land.  Obtain permits or other authorization as required. Be aware that bicycles are not permitted in areas protected as state or federal Wilderness. Many NEO trails are monitored regularly by volunteers, sources for the latest conditions reports are available on the "Area Single Track" page.

Leave No Trace: Be sensitive to the dirt beneath you. Recognize different types of soils and trail construction; practice low-impact cycling. Wet and muddy trails are more vulnerable to damage than dry ones. When the trail is soft, consider other riding options. This also means staying o­n existing trails and not creating new ones. Don't cut switchbacks. Be sure to pack out at least as much as you pack in.  Leave gates as you found them, or as marked.

Control Your Bicycle! Inattention for even a moment could put yourself and others at risk. Obey all bicycle speed regulations and recommendations, and ride within your limits.

Yield Appropriately. Do your utmost to let your fellow trail users know you’re coming. A friendly greeting or bell ring are good methods. Try to anticipate other trail users as you ride around corners. Bicyclists should yield to other non-motorized trail users, unless the trail is clearly signed for bike-only travel. Bicyclists traveling downhill should yield to ones headed uphill, unless the trail is clearly signed for one-way or downhill-only traffic. In general, strive to make each pass a safe and courteous one.  Show your respect when passing by slowing to a walking pace or even stopping.  On many trails a bell seems to be very effective, on the multi-purpose and towpath trails especially the bell tends to elicited safer and friendly response than shouting “On your left”.

Never Scare Animals.  Animals are easily startled by an unannounced approach, a sudden movement, or a loud noise.  Give animals enough room and time to adjust to you. When passing horses use special care and follow directions from the horseback riders (ask if uncertain). Running cattle and disturbing wildlife are serious offenses.

Plan Ahead. Know your equipment, your ability, and the area in which you are riding and prepare accordingly. Strive to be self-sufficient: keep your equipment in good repair, and carry necessary supplies for changes in weather or other conditions. A well-executed trip is a satisfaction to you and not a burden to others. Always wear a helmet and appropriate safety gear.

Be friendly: Simply being friendly does wonders for the image of mountain biking and the relations between user groups.  Make sure to say hello at a minimum.  A little small talk goes a long way.

Keep trails open by setting a good example of environmentally sound and socially responsible off-road cycling.