The MMBA has adopted the International Mountain Biking Association's (IMBA) Rules of the Trail:
The way we ride today shapes mountain bike trail access tomorrow. Do your part to preserve andenhance our sport's access and image by observing the following rules of the trail, formulated by IMBA, the International Mountain Bicycling Association. These rules are recognized around the world as the standard code of conduct for mountain bikers. IMBA's mission is to promote mountain bicycling that is environmentally sound and socially responsible.
1. Ride On
Open Trails Only. Respect trail
and road closures (ask if uncertain); avoid trespassing on private land; obtain
permits or other authorization as may be required. Federal and state
Wilderness areas are closed to cycling. The way you ride will influence trail
management decisions and policies.
2. 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. When the trailbed 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.
3. Control
Your Bicycle! Inattention for
even a second can cause problems. Obey all bicycle speed regulations and
recommendations.
4. Always
Yield Trail. Let your fellow trail
users know you're coming. A friendly greeting or bell is considerate and
works well; don't startle others. Show your respect when passing by slowing
to a walking pace or even stopping. Anticipate other trail users around
corners or in blind spots. Yielding means slow down, establish communication,
be prepared to stop if necessary and pass safely.
5. Never
Scare Animals. All animals are
startled by an unannounced approach, a sudden movement, or a loud noise. This
can be dangerous for you, others, and the animals. Give animals extra 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 is a serious offense. Leave gates as you found them, or
as marked.
6. Plan
Ahead. Know your equipment,
your ability, and the area in which you are riding -- and prepare
accordingly. Be self-sufficient at all times, 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. Keep trails open by
setting a good example of environmentally sound and socially responsible
off-road cycling.
Spring Thaw Conditions
We strongly urge you to avoid riding the trails during the
spring thaw period. Water from the melting snow cannot pass through the
frozen ground, so it puddles on the trail surface. Tire ruts help channel
this water and cause erosion. The rule of thumb is the ground has thawed when
the earthworms come out.
If you want to ride and unsure of the trail conditions
what should you do? Our suggestion is to call the park or check the MMBA
bulletin board. If you don't get an answer from these sources, make two
plans: one for the trail and one for nearby paved or dirt roads. If you get
to the trail and find it muddy, switch to the road plan. If you're unsure,
practice abstinence. Waiting a week or two for the conditions to improve
isn't the end of the world. It may help save the trails and your equipment.
Of course another option is to ride when everything is
frozen solid, typically in the early morning hours, but be watchful of icy
spots.
The below map is a courtesy of Christian from the Michigan Mountain Biking Association as of Sept 2007. It is a GPS map of his ride. http://www.mmba.org/
Spring Thaw Conditions