Trail Etiquette on Conway's Multi-Use Paths

Conway's multi-use trails are shared by cyclists, walkers, runners, and families. As the cycling community grows, trail etiquette becomes increasingly important for ensuring everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience. Whether you're riding Tucker Creek Trail or exploring Cadron Settlement Park, here are the trail etiquette rules every Conway cyclist should follow.

Yield Appropriately

On multi-use trails, cyclists yield to pedestrians and equestrians. When approaching a walker or runner from behind, slow down and announce yourself clearly — "on your left!" or "passing!" Give them time to react before passing. Pass at a safe speed and distance. If the trail is narrow, dismount and walk past particularly vulnerable users like small children or dogs.

Control Your Speed

Conway's trails are not racecourses. While fitness riding is perfectly acceptable, adjust your speed to trail conditions and traffic. On busy sections of Tucker Creek Trail, especially near parks and trailheads, slow down. Save your intervals for early mornings when the trail is empty, or ride on roads where you can maintain speed without endangering others.

Don't Ride Muddy Trails

This is the golden rule of mountain biking, and it's especially important in Arkansas. Our clay-based soil holds moisture, and riding on wet trails creates ruts that damage the trail and ruin the experience for everyone. If your tires are leaving visible tracks, the trail is too wet to ride. Check trail conditions on CAMBA's social media before heading to Bell Slough or Cadron Settlement Park. When in doubt, ride pavement instead.

Stay on Designated Trails

Cutting switchbacks or creating unofficial trails damages the ecosystem and can lead to trail closures. Ride only on designated trails, and don't create new lines. If a trail is closed for maintenance or due to conditions, respect the closure. CAMBA and trail managers work hard to maintain Conway's trails — don't undo their work.

Leave No Trace

Pack out everything you pack in. This includes energy gel wrappers, tire levers, and tubes. If you see trash on the trail, pick it up — be the cyclist who leaves the trail better than they found it. Don't skid your tires — it damages the trail surface and is a sign of poor braking technique.

Be an Ambassador

Every cyclist represents the entire cycling community. A rude interaction with one trail user can lead to anti-cycling sentiment and trail restrictions. Greet other trail users with a smile and a wave. Help lost or injured trail users. Report trail hazards or damage to CAMBA or the appropriate land manager. Be the cyclist you'd want to encounter on the trail.

Good trail etiquette isn't just about rules — it's about respect. Respect for other users, for the trails, and for the community that maintains them. Ride responsibly, and Conway's trails will remain open and welcoming for everyone.