Spring is here and people of all ages are using the Allegany River Valley Trail in large numbers again. Here are some suggestions for enjoying this valuable local asset in Olean and Allegany.
Any biker who approaches people on foot on the trail, especially with small children, should be extra cautious about giving the pedestrians the right of way by slowing down and giving a loud warning such as “Passing on your left!”
Also, people on the trail should be cautious about sudden movement, paying careful attention to the possibility that someone could be approaching from behind.
There are brochures on the trail at the start (near the west entrance of St. Bonaventure University) and at the 20th and State street crossing that provide a map and give some practical suggestions. Here are the rules as a reminder to all who use the trail:
® Pets must be leashed and waste removed.
® Motorized vehicles, including snowmobiles and ATVs, are prohibited (except powered devices for the handicapped).
® Alcoholic beverages, glass bottles and illegal drugs are not permitted.
® Firearms, fireworks and fires are not permitted.
® Littering is not permitted. If you carry it in, carry it out.
A multiuse trail should be treated somewhat like a highway. Trail etiquette includes:
® Obey all traffic signs, markers and signals.
® Travel at a reasonable speed and in a consistent manner and in no case faster than 15 mph.
® All trail users should use a light and reflectors after dusk and before dawn.
® Stay to the right except when passing. Always look ahead and behind when passing.
® Pass slower traffic on their left; yield to oncoming traffic when passing.
® Give a clear warning signal before passing.
® Move off the trail when stopped to allow others to pass.
® Yield to other users when entering and crossing the trail.
A good general rule to remember is “Wheels yield to heels.” Bikers and in-line skaters should be particularly wary of anyone walking or jogging ahead of them.
Also do not forget that the foliage along the river contains a tremendous amount of poison ivy. Keep away from those three-leaf plants!
The new loop at St. Bonaventure is now complete and provides an enjoyable 2 1/2-mile walk.
We are looking for volunteers to help maintain the plantings at the brick plaza across from the St. Bonaventure entrance. If interested please call me at 372-6411.
The trail continues to be a great asset to local people and visitors alike. Common sense practices will continue to make it enjoyable and safe for all.
(Mr. Higgins of Allegany is chairman of the Allegheny River Valley Trail.)
