As a frequent cyclist on St. Albert's beautiful Red Willow trail system, I am often amazed at some people's lack of trail etiquette.
At times it is so blatant that I'm not sure if they even know the "rules of the trail", such as stay in the right lane, keep dogs leashed (and not have the leash go across both lanes of the trail), etc. If you hear a bicycle bell, that means a bike is coming to pass you on the left, so keep that left lane clear to pass.
And please keep toddlers out of the left lane, especially on blind corners. I have had a couple of close calls when a small child unexpectedly pops up in my lane when rounding a corner.
Yes, I drive defensively, but if we are all conscious of this together, there will be fewer accidents or close calls. (Fortunately I have had only a few close calls, no accidents!) Parents, do your kids a favour and refresh them on the rules of the trail. Let's continue to enjoy this trail system together in the safest way possible.
http://www.stalbert.ca/trail-etiquette
Rhonda Klaszus, Sturgeon County
