Take a ride or walk on our trails

This has been a wonderful summer in Whitefish — mild weather, no forest fires and a special year for the introduction of new bike and pedestrian trails.

The City of Whitefish, Montana Department of Transportation, and the Whitefish Bike and Pedestrian Committee want to thank everyone for the positive support we are receiving for the new Wisconsin Trail — a trail we have been working for many years to provide.

This trail has somewhat different characteristics from our other trails — it crosses driveways, road intersections and a busy thoroughfare, Wisconsin Avenue.

These characteristics have prompted the Bike and Pedestrian Committee to remind everyone of some safety and common-sense guidelines for using our trails:

Motorists

? Follow posted speed limits.

? Keep a safe distance from walkers or cyclists when passing without endangering oncoming traffic.

? When approaching or entering an intersection where the bike trail crosses, be particularly aware of cyclist and pedestrian traffic on the trail.

? When exiting or entering a driveway across the bike trail, be aware and sensitive to cyclist or pedestrian traffic on the trail.

? Be aware of the new crosswalks on Wisconsin. Stop when occupied or someone is waiting to cross as required by Montana law.

Bicyclists

? Bicycles are legal vehicles in Montana, which means that cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motorists.

? Although not a law, we strongly recommend helmets.

? Be aware and careful whenever crossing any vehicle access (road or driveway).

? Obey all traffic signs, particularly at road intersections or crossings.

? Cross only when safe and slow down when approaching an intersection.

? Ride on the right side of the trail whenever possible.

? Give an audible signal before passing on the trail.

? Be sure your bicycle is properly equipped with safety equipment — like brakes.

Walkers

? We discourage wearing headphones — you need to hear oncoming traffic.

? Be careful when approaching and crossing any vehicle-access point (driveways, roads).

? Obey traffic signs.

Dog owners

? Dogs must be on a leash and under control of the owner.

? Dog owners on the trails need to be prepared for and take care of animal waste.

Building bicycle and pedestrian trails is an evolving process in Whitefish.

We will be making changes to our trails focused on additional safety and the convenience of all our trail users. Please take advantage of the fall weather and enjoy our trails.

Don Spivey lives in Whitefish and is chairman of the Bike and Pedestrian Committee.