Friends Don't Let Friends Block Trails

Starting this week, July 13, 2013, trail users on the popular multi-use Legacy Trail in Truckee will find new messages stenciled in chalk along the path. From educational “share the path” and “keep right” reminders, to more tongue-in-cheek messages like “friends don’t let friends block trails” and “it’s okay to be shy, but if you’re about to pass, say hi,” the goal of the new Take Care Tahoe campaign is to reduce trail user conflicts and collisions on paved paths in the region. The two biggest issues are large groups blocking the entire trail by walking side-by-side, and bikes going too fast around pedestrians. 

“The Town is happy to be partnering with Take Care Tahoe on this pilot initiative. As the popularity of our trail system continues to grow, reminders of trail etiquette are becoming more important,” said Jen Callaway, Truckee Town Manager. “We have heard from our community there is a need to deter user conflicts and accidents on trails. With this campaign and fun messaging, we will be able to see how effective this type of signage and communication can be to remind everyone how to use our trails.”

The campaign will launch with an initial list of 20 messages that include straightforward instructions, funny reminders, and Spanish-language messages. The public will be encouraged to share their feedback and new message ideas on Take Care Tahoe’s website and social media channels. Any new message ideas that are submitted have the potential to become new stencils.

“As more people use paved paths to walk, run, and ride throughout the region, it has become more important than ever to remind users about how to share the trail with others,” said Noah Shapiro, Take Care Tahoe program manager. “We’re hoping that a series of lighthearted messages stenciled along the trail itself will grab the attention of more people than a traditional posted sign might.”

In addition to the Legacy Trail, the campaign will be introduced on the Trout Creek trail in Truckee once construction is completed. In the future, it may also be expanded to other regional multi-use paved trails.

Learn more about the trail etiquette campaign at takecaretahoe.org.