Trail Safety / Use Guidelines

HOURS

  • Trails are open from dawn to dusk.
  • Restrooms are open from 5:00 am until 10:00 pm.

RULES

  • Be aware that emergency, law enforcement, power line and parks maintenance motorized vehicles are allowed on the pathway.  No other motorized vehicles are allowed (except wheelchairs).
  • No fires, alcohol or smoking. Smoking is prohibited in City Parks.  Violators are subject to citation. (GHMC 9.24.010)
  • Any person bicycling or riding as a bicycle passenger shall wear an approved bicycle helmet and have either the neck or chin strap of the helmet fastened securely while the bicycle is in motion.  Violators are subject to citation. (GHMC 10.22.030)
  • Skateboards, scooters and roller skates/in-line skates are prohibited on striped streets within the city but allowed on sidewalks and public paths. Violators are subject to citation. (GHMC 8.30.010)
  • You must pick up your dog's waste immediately for disposal.  Violators are subject to citation. (GHMC 6.04.070)
  • Dogs must be on a leash and under control at all times. Violators are subject to citation. (GHMC 6.04.050)
  • Keep your dog on a short lead that doesn’t extend across the path, causing a biker or skater to fall.
  • All other City of Gig Harbor Municipal Code and State laws apply to our trails.

WHAT TO WEAR

  • Dress appropriately for the location, time of year and planned activities.
  • Wear sunglasses and a hat or visor during sunny weather.
  • Wear reflective material in the evening.
  • Bicyclists and skaters should wear a properly fitted helmet. A helmet is the single most effective way to prevent head injury resulting from a crash.

TRAIL HAZARDS

  • Be aware of trail hazards such as loose gravel, glass, holes, ruts and low-hanging branches.
  • Trail conditions can vary depending on the time of year.  Flooded or muddy areas can be hazardous.
  • Keep your distance from wildlife.
  • Do not feed wildlife.

PERSONAL SAFETY

  • Walk, run or ride with a partner or a dog.
  • If you are alone on the trails, avoid unfamiliar areas.
  • Let someone know where you will be and when you intend to return.  
  • Carry a cell phone or know where telephones are in the area.
  • Be aware of your surroundings at all times.
  • Trust your instincts and avoid areas where you feel uncomfortable.
  • If you think you are being followed, go to an open business or a lighted house.
  • Report suspicious behavior to the Police by calling 911.
  • If you wear headphones while on the trail, try to keep them at a volume that allows you to hear others around you.
  • If you need assistance or encounter someone else needing assistance, call 911.

WALKING/RUNNING

  • Always yield to equestrians.
  • Be courteous to other trail users.
  • Allow other trail users to pass.
  • When in a group, avoid blocking the trail.
  • Stay alert.  Horses and slower moving individuals may be startled by faster moving trail users.
  • Make your presence known to other trail users well in advance, particularly when approaching from behind.
  • Stay on designated trails.  Prevent injury to one’s self and damage to natural resources by staying on designated trails.

BICYCLING

  • Make sure your bike is in good mechanical condition.
  • Ride in control and stay to the right when practical.
  • Bicyclists should yield to pedestrians and equestrians and obey all traffic regulations.
  • When cycling on street to a trail, cyclists must ride in the same direction as traffic.
  • Slow down when approaching other trail users or street crossings.
  • At busy intersections, walk your bike.
  • Control your speed at all times.
  • Do not block the trail - pull off the trail when stopping.
  • Slowly approach blind turns in anticipation of other trail users and obstacles beyond your view.
  • Use a bell or horn or call out when passing others.
  • To be noticed when riding in the evening, use a front light and a red reflector or flashing rear light and use retro-reflective tape or markings on equipment or clothing.