Trail Safety Guidelines

At Greenbelt, we strive to make our multi-use trails safe and welcoming for everyone who enjoys spending time outdoors. Whether hiking, walking your dog, running, biking, or horseback riding, we all share a responsibility to respect the natural environment, follow property rules, and be mindful of fellow trail users. Please follow these simple trail guidelines to help keep our conserved lands safe, enjoyable, and protected for future generations.

  • Stay on marked trails. Wandering off trail can damage sensitive habitats and cause erosion.
  • Be mindful of property boundaries. Trails often connect to adjacent public and private lands; please observe posted signage that guides or restricts access.
  • Leave what you find. Do not pick plants, remove rocks, or disturb natural features.
  • Pack out what you pack in. Carry out all trash, including food scraps and pet waste.
  • Do not disturb wildlife. Observe animals from a distance and never offer food.
  • Use trails as intended. Please follow posted restrictions on motor vehicle use.

When trails are shared, small actions make a big difference. The S.T.A.L. approach provides a simple, respectful framework for interacting with horses while enjoying our protected properties, helping ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
  • Be courteous. Offer a friendly greeting to fellow trail users.
  • Follow signage and property rules. These protect both visitors and the local ecosystem.
  • Leave trails as you find them. Avoid altering trails or markers; unauthorized changes can be unsafe and harmful to the environment.
  • Keep noise levels low. Enjoy the sounds of nature and allow others to do the same.
  • Travel considerately in groups. Allow space for others to pass and avoid blocking the trail.
  • Be cautious around horses. Stop or step aside when approaching, avoid sudden movements or loud noises, and announce yourself if passing from behind. Follow the S.T.A.L. approach illustrated to the right.
  • Report concerns. Notify Greenbelt staff if you notice trail damage, hazards, or misuse.

  • Keep to the right, pass on the left.
  • Yield to larger groups when sharing the trail.
  • Uphill hikers have the right of way. Step aside if you are descending to allow others to climb safely.
  • Be aware of mountain/gravel bike riders. Hikers have the right of way, but when possible, step aside to allow bikers to pass safely.

  • Leash dogs where required. Dogs must be leashed at all times unless otherwise posted.
  • Clean up after your pet. Bag waste and take it with you, do not leave bags on or beside the trail.
  • Keep dogs under control. Do not allow pets to approach wildlife, horses, other dogs, or people uninvited.
  • Recall and restrain your dog when others approach. Step off the trail and hold your dog when hikers, horseback riders, or bikers are passing.
  • Be mindful of personal space. Prevent your dog from jumping on children, older adults, or other trail users, especially in off-leash areas.

  • Be aware of others. Many trail users may be unfamiliar with horses and how they react to new people and experiences.
  • Leave gates as you find them.
  • Allow faster trail users to pass safely. Bikers yield to horses, but step aside if/when it’s safe.
  • Avoid riding on wet trails. Deep hoof prints indicate the trail is too soft.
  • Stay in designated areas. Ride on the edge of fields unless otherwise marked.
  • Approach and pass carefully. Alert others when coming from behind and pass at a walk.
  • No dogs while riding.

  • Yield to all users. Ride in control and slow down around corners.
  • Protect trails. Avoid riding on wet ground; deep ruts indicate the trail is too soft. Walk or carry your bike through wet areas.
  • Stay on existing trails. Do not create unauthorized trails, shortcuts, or jumps.
  • Learn and follow best practices. For more information, visit the New England Mountain Bike Association website.

  • Tell someone your route and expected return.
  • Bring a charged cell phone.
  • Check weather and trail conditions.
  • If you use earbuds, wear one at low volume.
  • Essentials to bring:
    • Water / food
    • Whistle
    • Flashlight
    • First-aid kit: tape, trauma shears, Benadryl, roller gauze, sunscreen, safety pins, emergency blanket, ice pack
    • K9 rescue sling, if hiking with your dog

Thank you for helping care for Greenbelt’s protected properties and for doing your part to keep our trails safe for all visitors.