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[Editorial note: this is the first installment in a one-part series called “Rail Trail Satire”]
The Sudbury Rail Trails Advisory Committee (RTAC) discussed trail etiquette during their January 8 meeting. As usage of the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail has surged in Sudbury, it appears there has been some confusion about etiquette. Signs with trail rules have not been posted yet, as the trail is technically still under construction and not open to the public. That being said, we thought it would be helpful to provide readers with some etiquette tips to assist them in trespassing respectfully. Without further adieu, here are Sudbury Weekly’s trail etiquette tips.
Travel on the right, pass on the left.
This is perhaps the most difficult rule to follow. What is right? And what is left? Are we just supposed to believe “experts” who know what’s right and what’s left? Either way – Glenn Pransky of the RTAC indicated that it’s one of the rules that will be posted on signs. (54:50)
Cover Dog Turds With Leaves
If you bring your untrained dog on the rail trail, it’s quite alright to take them off leash. The town-wide leash law can’t possibly apply on the rail trail, right? Just make sure, when you eventually catch up to them, to cover any droppings with leaves. You wouldn’t want anyone to step in it, but it’s a long walk and it’s clearly impossible to haul such a massive load with you. And who can stand the thought of bringing it home with you to put in a trash bin. The Land Rover will smell terrible for days. No, no – it’s best to cover it with the leaves of the oaks and hope none of the thousands of other travelers step, cycle or rollerblade over it.
Congregate Right In the Middle of the Trail
If you bump into some friends on the trail and decide to stop and form a circle to chat about how Henry David Thoreau would have loved the trail, make sure to congregate in a broad circle right in the center of the trail. This makes it easier for groups of cyclists to see you – and it gives them time to pass you by traversing the gravel shoulder of the trail, as close to the trees and brush as possible, which works great with bicycles.
Don’t Tell People You Are Passing Them
This one is a bit easier for longtime Massachusetts residents who know never to use their blinkers in their cars. Why would you tell the enemy your plans? An audible indication that you are about to pass someone may occasionally be well-received by a trail user with a heart of gold. But what if they use this advanced warning to sabotage you? Keep the enemy guessing.
Explore Adjacent Private Property
If you aren’t sure where the rail trail ends and someone’s back yard begins, you should investigate further. Going off trail is like a shore excursion on a cruise. The world is your oyster, and you’re already trespassing on the trail anyway! As the saying goes: “Travel far enough, you meet yourself.” Or in this case… you meet a trail neighbor who values their privacy when they’re grilling dinner. Maybe you can get a free hot dog?
Use An Extra Long Retractable Leash For Your Pets
Whether you are walking a dog, a cat, or a chicken, make sure to use a very long retractable leash. This allows your pet to enjoy both sides of the rail trail, while you are still technically complying with the rule to stay on the right of the trail. Nothing bad is going to happen when cyclists fail to audibly notify you they are passing on the left, and the nearly invisible retractable leash is stretched across the full width of the trail.
Visit the Friends of the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail Website
Perhaps the best thing you can do is review the guidelines provided by the Friends of the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail. They’ve been supporting the rail trail in many communities, and have a lot of expertise. Since the trail spans multiple communities, their suggested guidelines help to set some baseline etiquette expectations for everyone.