Many user groups share the trails found in the Pathways to Health inventory. If everyone practices respect, patience, understanding and consideration, we can not only ensure an enjoyable experience for all, but that the region's trails will be preserved for future generations to enjoy.

The Trail User's Code

• Follow marked routes only, especially on private land. Do not take shortcuts.
• Do not climb fences; use the stiles. A stile is a set of steps for crossing over a fence or wall. They are generally found in rural areas and allow humans to enter and leave fields but not animals. Most are made of wood.
• Respect the privacy of people living along the trail.
• Leave the trail cleaner than you found it; carry out all litter.
• Fires are not permitted along the trail, except in approved campsites.
• Leave flowers and plants for others to enjoy.
• Do not damage live trees by breaking branches or stripping bark.
• Keep dogs on a leash, especially on or near farmland.
• Always clean up after your dog.
• Leave only your thanks and take nothing but photographs.

Responsible Use of Recreational Trails

No matter the activity whether you're horseback riding, cross-country skiing or hiking, the future of our trails depends on whether we exercise minimum impact when we use them.

Here are some suggestions for using and sharing the region's trails responsibly:

• Try to stay on the trail, even if it is rough and muddy. Walking or cycling on the edge of the trail can widen the trail and cause damage and erosion.
• Travel single file to avoid widening the trail.
• If you are in a group and are not following a marked trail (for example, if you are walking throug an open field), spread out rather than following in each other's footsteps. This reduces environmental impact.
• Avoid sensitive vegetation and watch where you put your feet.
• Respect and be courteous to other users who also want to enjoy the lands you are using. Set an example of courtesy for all.
• Be considerate and honour other's desire for solitude and a peaceful outdoor experience.
• Be especially cautious around horses and bikers. Stay to the right of the trail and let them pass.
• Allow for future use of the outdoors, by leaving it better than you found it
• Leave your natural surroundings as you found them.
• Carry out what you carry in. Don't burn or bury trash.
• Respect the environment and other trail users. By using common sense and common courtesy, what is available today will be here to enjoy tomorrow.