The question comes up, sometimes at precisely the wrong time, what side of the Trail should I be on? Or, what side of the road?
Turns out, the answer depends on your mode of transportation and where you are.
When on the Clark Lake Spirit Trail (off road), which side should you be on? Suggestion: to prevent confusion, cyclists, runners and walkers should stay to the right, pass on the left.
That changes when you leave the Trail and travel on roads shared with cars. Runners and walkers should stay on the left, facing traffic. Cyclists stay on the right, like cars.
Knowing and following these concepts can help users avoid unhappy consequences.
I also think that when passing someone on the trail, especially if a biker is passing a walker, they should slow down and announce “on the left” before passing. So many people wear ear buds listening to music, etc. that they may not be aware of someone behind them. Also traffic can be quite loud on Jefferson Road.
MY OPINION. People that ware earbuds should always have just one earbud in when walking or running any place outside their yard. Much safer then not hearing what’s coming up behind you.
Great comments! It is so easy to “zone” out while using the trail alone but we must remember we are never along when out exercising.
Thank you Rick for keeping us informed and refreshing the trail users of safety on the trail.