The Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (State Parks) today announced a new trail etiquette initiative launching to ensure public safety on the agency’s over 2,000 miles of trails statewide, including the 750-mile Empire State Trail and the many locally-managed trails it encompasses. The initiative offers New York residents and visitors contemporary, common-sense tips to safely navigate busy trails being aware of the wide variety of trail users and occasional intersections. 

“Regardless of whether you walk, run, ride a bike, operate a wheelchair, walk a leashed pet, push a stroller, or cross-country ski, New York State Parks wants to ensure all trailgoers are aware of their surroundings and share our beloved trails with courtesy and safety in mind,” said New York State Parks Commissioner Pro Tempore Randy Simons. “We all want to get outside and enjoy all that New York has to offer, and small actions can mean the difference between a memorable fall day on the trail or a trip to urgent care.” 

State Parks’ new trail etiquette initiative consists of four main principles: 

• Wear a helmet: All cyclists should wear a properly sized bike helmet, with the strap buckled. Under New York State law, those under age 14 are required to wear an appropriate helmet

• Be courteous and aware: Because the trail is enjoyed by a variety of users, ages and abilities, visitors should be aware of the activity around them.

• All users, especially groups and those with children, should stay to the right and maintain a clear path for passing.

• Cyclists must slow down for other trail users, use a bell or call out to alert others, and pass safely on the left.

• When stopping or taking a break, move to the side and avoid blocking the trail.

• Leashed dogs can make sudden movements and startle other trail users. Dog walkers must keep their pet under control at all times.

• See and be seen: Cyclists are encouraged to ride defensively. Stopping at all intersections to check for oncoming traffic before safely crossing is advised. 

• Follow electric bike rules: Electric-assist bicycles, or e-bikes, are legal to use across the state. However, government entities and trail owners can place restrictions on the types and places they may be used. In most locations e-scooters, one-wheels, and higher-speed e-bikes are prohibited. On road, Class I and Class II e-bikes are permitted where the posted speed is 30 mph or less. It is the responsibility of the rider to know where and what types of e-bikes are allowed and to operate them in a safe manner. 

The Empire Trail welcomes bicyclists and walkers of all ages and abilities to experience the Empire State’s urban centers, village main streets, rural communities, and diverse history, from New York City through the Hudson River Valley, west to Buffalo along the Erie Canal, and north to the Champlain Valley and Adirondacks. 

New York State Canal Corporation Director Brian U. Stratton said, “The Erie and Champlain Canalway Trails are multi-use trails that offer walkers, joggers, and cyclists an incredible way to exercise and recreate across the Upstate New York. For the safety of all trail users, I encourage everyone to follow the guiding principles set forth in this new initiative as it will ensure a more enjoyable experience for all.” 

Parks & Trails New York Executive Director Paul Steely White said, “We need your help keeping greenway trails safe and accessible for all New Yorkers–cyclists and pedestrians alike. Safe trails require more than just clear pathways and signage, they are built on the cooperation and understanding of each and every individual on the trail. Stay safe and keep others safe by following trailway rules and always yielding to those around you.” 

The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation oversees more than 250 parks, historic sites, recreational trails, golf courses, boat launches and more, which saw a record 84 million visits in 2023. For more information on any of these recreation areas, visit parks.ny.gov, download the free NY State Parks Explorer app or call 518.474.0456. Join us in celebrating our Centennial throughout 2024, and connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), the OPRHP Blog or via the OPRHP Newsroom.