Mountain Biking Trail Etiquette

Access to the Peak District National Park and the UK countryside has not been too kind to Mountain Bikers over the years, but thanks to the work individuals and organizations it's now better than ever, Peak Mountain Biking wants to keep improving on this.

Mountain Biking allows you to get right into the heart of the countryside and experience a greater area of outstanding natural beauty than if you were to explore on foot. Unfortunately the inconsiderate use of mountain bikers has often given us a bad reputation especially amongst hikers. It should be remembered that bridal paths and other cycle permissive trails are meant to be enjoyed by everybody and that consideration should be shown by all to all, whether you are traveling on foot, on a bike or on a horse.

The UK and the Peak District is a magnet for activity days, mountain bike holidays and tours, walkers, hikers etc and we all have to share the space. Good manners, consideration for others and tolerance should always be exercised whilst out riding and this extends to all trail users, not just those who are mountain bike enthusiasts. A little common courtesy is all that’s required and here are a few tips to help those who enjoy mountain biking to show respect to others, to wildlife and help reduce the environmental impact of riding off road.

The first thing you need to check is that your intended route legally allows access for mountain bikes, in England and Wales these are commonly Bridal Paths, Byways Open to All Traffic (BOATS) and Roads used as Public Paths (RUPPS).

HORSES: The more common cycle permissive trails are often used by equestrians. Horses can become nervous and unpredictable around bikes especially if they hear unusual noises from your bike before they can actually see you. If you are approaching a horse head on you should stop and wait for the rider to either pull to the side and wave you through or wait until the horse has passed. If you are approaching a horse from behind avoid clunking gears and squeaky breaking that the horse will be unfamiliar with , you should make the rider aware of your presence with and good morning / afternoon. When the rider is aware of your presence they will move over or stop allowing you to pass. For the safety of the horse, rider and yourself you should pass wide, slow and quietly.

WALKERS and HIKERS: The main issue that gives mountain bikers and bad reputation while out on the trail with walkers and hikers is our speed. Riding too fast past other people can cause serious accidents, so keep your speed down when approaching blind spots and slow down when you can clearly see that you’re going to want to pass people on foot. A pleasant good morning or hello will also make people on foot aware that you are near, it will also alert dogs and children who can be as unpredictable as horses.

FELLOW RIDERS: Approach other riders with caution, slow down and make them aware if you wish to pass, always give priority to riders coming up hill, steep technical climbs require concentration and momentum which will be upset if they have to try and get out the way of someone riding too fast down hill.

ENVIRONMENT: "Take only photos and leave only tyre prints"