When using designated pathways and trails for cycling in Alberta Parks, please follow a few practical guidelines. These guidelines will help keep you and other visitors safe while minimizing potential impacts to the Parks we all enjoy and love.
Always ride within your limits. Be aware of your speed and be confident that you can stop safely if necessary. Inattention while cycling can put both yourself and others at risk.
Always check AlbertaParks.ca for information and closures before you head out. Always remain on the trail; riding off trails can damage sensitive ecosystems, and lead to soil erosion.
Watch for relevant signage throughout your ride and obey them to keep yourself and others safe. Not following posted signage can be a contravention of the Provincial Parks Act.
Designated pathways and trails for cycling may be shared with walkers, runners, hikers and equestrian users. Share the trail and yield to pedestrian and equestrian users. Yield to uphill riders when riding downhill.
Know your equipment, your ability and the area in which you are riding and prepare accordingly. Ensure that your cycling equipment is in good working order. Always wear a helmet and appropriate safety gear. Choose trails within your riding ability.
Stay alert for wildlife, especially bears
Wildlife and domestic animals are easily startled by unannounced approaches, sudden movement, or loud noises. Ride slowly, stay alert, and make noise in areas of known animal activity, near streams and dense vegetation, on windy days, and when approaching corners. Carry bear spray, know how to use it, and do not ride alone in bear country.
Please be mindful of the diverse activities that may be taking place on shared pathways and trails. Let others know you are coming, and only pass slower trail traffic when it is safe to do so. Bells and yells help others know you are there.
Equestrian users have right of way. Dismount from your bike, move to the side for horses and follow their riders’ directions. This is common courtesy to ensure the safety of all users.
Never create new or modify existing pathways and trails without approval. Building unauthorized trails can have serious environmental impacts and safety consequences.
Show respect for the natural and cultural values of the park you are visiting.
Do not litter or leave any food waste behind and stay on designated trails. Leave natural objects and cultural artefacts undisturbed for others to discover and enjoy.
Avoid riding wet and muddy trails. Riding on a muddy trail can cause trail damage, including widening and rutting of the trail to the detriment of all users and the environment.
If a trail is being impacted due to cycling (rutting, trail braiding etc.) or other activities, or has broken features such as boardwalks, please report these and other issues so that Alberta Parks can work to address them.
