Rules of the Trail Who We Are The way we ride today shapes mountain bike trail access tomorrow. Do your The Michigan Mountain Biking Association (MMBA) is a 501(C)(3) charitable part to preserve and enhance our sport's access and image by observing the non-profit corporation. We have 1,600 members within 9 chapters across following rules of the trail, formulated by IMBA, the International Mountain Michigan. We are the second largest IMBA-affiliate. Bicycling Association. These rules are recognized around the world as the standard code of conduct for mountain bikers. Our mission is to promote The mission of the MMBA is to promote responsible mountain biking and to mountain bicycling that is environmentally sound and socially responsible. work toward the goals of common land access and natural resource protection through interaction with policy makers, the cycling industry, race 1. Ride On Open Trails Only. Respect trail and road closures promoters, mountain bikers and other trail users. (ask if uncertain); avoid trespassing on private land; obtain permits or other authorization as may be required. Federal and state Wilderness areas are Our membership represents all levels of riders, from beginners to world closed to cycling. The way you ride will influence trail management decisions champion racers. Our common passion for trail riding and stewardship and policies. brings us together as a collective voice. 2. Leave No Trace. Be sensitive to the dirt beneath you. Recognize different types of soils and trail construction; practice low-impact cycling. We’re proud to build America’s best trails. Wet and muddy trails are more vulnerable to damage. When the trailbed is soft, consider other riding options. This also means staying on existing trails and not creating new ones. Don't cut switchbacks. Be sure to pack out at For additional information, visit our web site, www.mmba.org or least as much as you pack in. contact us via email ([email protected]) or phone (248.288.3753). 3. Control Your Bicycle! Inattention for even a second can cause problems. Obey all bicycle speed regulations and recommendations. Spring Thaw Conditions 4. Always Yield Trail. Let your fellow trail users know you're coming. A friendly greeting or bell We strongly urge you to avoid is considerate and works well; don't startle others. riding the trails during the spring Show your respect when passing by slowing to a walking pace or even stopping. Anticipate other trail thaw period. users around corners or in blind spots. Yielding means slow down, establish communication, be Water from the melting snow cannot pass through the prepared to stop if necessary and pass safely. frozen ground, so it puddles on the trail surface. Tire ruts help channel this water and cause erosion. The All animals are 5. Never Scare Animals. rule of thumb is the ground has thawed when the startled by an unannounced approach, a sudden earthworms come out. movement, or a loud noise. This can be dangerous for you, others, and the animals. Give animals extra If you want to ride and unsure of the trail conditions room and time to adjust to you. When passing what should you do? Our suggestion is to call the park horses use special care and follow directions from or check the MMBA bulletin board: the horseback riders (ask if uncertain). Running cattle and disturbing wildlife is a serious offense. www.mmba.org. Leave gates as you found them, or as marked. If you don't get an answer from these sources, make 6. Plan Ahead. Know your equipment, your two plans: one for the trail and one for nearby paved or ability, and the area in which you are riding -- and dirt roads. If you get to the trail and find it muddy, prepare accordingly. Be self-sufficient at all times, switch to the road plan. If you're unsure, practice keep your equipment in good repair, and carry abstinence. Waiting a week or two for the conditions to necessary supplies for changes in weather or other improve isn't the end of the world. It may help save conditions. A well-executed trip is a satisfaction to the trails and your equipment. you and not a burden to others. Always wear a helmet and appropriate safety gear. Keep trails open by setting a good example of environmentally sound Of course another option is to ride when everything is and socially responsible off-road cycling. frozen solid, typically in the early morning hours, but be watchful of icy spots. .