It’s that time of year again. Time for using the trails in the Albert Lea area. It’s a good time, too, to remember trail etiquette.

These suggestions come from the Trails & Open Spaces Coalition:

Be friendly and courteous.

Share the trail. Ride, walk or run on the right, pass on the left.

Stay on the trail. Creating your own trail or cutting switchbacks creates erosion, damages habitat and causes new trails which can’t be maintained.

Bicyclists yield to equestrians, runners and hikers. Keep your bike under control and at a safe speed.

Runners and hikers yield to equestrians.

Downhill traffic should yield to uphill traffic. When in doubt, give the other user the right of way.

Use unpaved trails only when they are dry, not muddy or wet, to avoid leaving ruts or prints.

Warn people when you are planning to pass. Bells, horns or your voice will do, but make sure to use your voice to warn equestrians, not bells or horns. Bells or horns may frighten horses.

Anticipate other trail users around corners and blind spots.

Ride within your ability at all times.

Use caution when using headphones. You may not be able to hear people trying to warn you.

When a horse approaches, move off the trail and ask the rider for instructions.

Respect private property.