Property Information and Trail Etiquette

Trail Etiquette Tips for Santa Fe County Open Space & Trails
• Be Courteous
Trails are for the enjoyment of all visitors. Please be courteous and respectful when encountering fellow trail users.
• Stay on Established Trails
Well-built trails are designed to protect the land from erosion and promote sustainability. When users cut their own trails they promote degradation of the fragile landscape and wildlife habitat.
• Leave no trace Use unpaved trails only when they are dry, not muddy or wet , to avoid leaving ruts or prints
• Yield
All users must slow and stop for horses. Cyclists must also yield to hikers. When a horse approaches, move off the trail and ask the rider for instructions.
• Announce Yourself
Let people know when you are approaching from behind and that you are passing on the left. Use your voice to warn equestrians, not bells or horns – they may frighten horses.
• Slow down Maintain a safe and controlled speed. A hand out and down is a warning for others to slow down or stop.
• Share the Trail
Keep to the right of the trail and allow faster users enough room to pass on the left.
• Keep Dogs Leashed
Promote wildlife preservation, enhance the wilderness experience for other users, keep your pet safe, and avoid possible fines by having your dog properly leashed.
• Clean Up after Your Dog
Not only does dog excrement stink, but it also spreads disease to other dogs and pollutes groundwater. Look for disposal bags and trash cans at trailheads.
• Gates Leave gates as you find them and obey gate closures and regulatory signs.
• Respect Private Property Trails that are open to the public are often adjacent to land that is private property. Please respect all property rights.
• Pack it in - Pack it out
Keep your impact to a minimum when on the trail - take your trash out.
• Plan Ahead Know your limits and abilities, carry gear for changing weather conditions

Respect other users, expect other users.