Get the Top, Local stories delivered to your inbox! Click here to join the daily Vernon Matters newsletter.
Trail Users Asked To Show Respect

Trail Users Asked To Show Respect

Apr 23, 2019 | 3:02 PM

The northern part of Okanagan Rail Trail was busy over the Easter long weekend — so busy that trail etiquette could become an issue.

The Regional District of North Okanagan says over 7,800 cyclists and pedestrians accessed the RDNO section from Friday to Monday.

Mike Fox, RDNO’s General Manager of Community Services, says they are thrilled with the usage, but reminds users to be be aware and courteous so everyone can enjoy it.

He says that includes keeping to the right except to pass others, and for cyclists to slow down near pedestrians and to notify other users before passing by voice or using a bell.

RDNO provides the following guidelines to respect the safety of users:
• All cyclists should slow down when approaching a pedestrians;
• All users should keep right except to pass other users; and only pass in a safe manner;
• All cyclists should notify other users before passing (by bell or voice);
• Parents and pet owners should ensure their children and pets remain on the far right hand side of centerline or center of the trail;
• All trail users move to the right if stopping.

Another issue is dogs on the trail.

While they are allowed, all dogs have to be on a leash, well behaved and not pose a threat to users.

Owners can bring their own dog bags or use those supplied at the trailhead.

Filled bags should be carried and disposed of properly, not left along the trail as litter.

Any items packed into the trail, should be packed out, and not left as litter.