Trail Etiquette

 

  1. Have all Required Equipment and be properly equipped for the Difficulty Level of the Run. 
  2. Drive a Reliable Vehicle.  If a vehicle has a known reliability problem that is likely to cause it to be disabled on the trail, please, do not bring it on a Run.
  3. CB communications should be relevant and brief.  While on a run, idle chatter should be avoided.
  4. Know the name of the driver directly ahead and behind you as well as the Leader's name.
  5. The driver behind each vehicle should try to keep the vehicle ahead in sight.  If the vehicle ahead gets out of sight for more than a minute or so, call on the CB and ask the leader to slow down.
  6. When coming to intersecting trails or turns, before proceeding, make sure the vehicle behind sees which way to turn.
  7. When coming to an intersection and you are not sure which way to turn, STOP.  Don't guess and don't proceed.   Radio the person directly ahead by name for directions. 
  8. If you need to stop for longer than a brief period, the driver of the vehicle that is stopped should inform the other vehicles via radio the reason for stopping.
  9. If a vehicle becomes stuck or breaks down, let the other vehicles and the leader know to stop right away and keep people informed of the progress of repairs if they are required.
  10. The driver of a disabled vehicle needs to help with repairs.  Even if not mechanically competent he/she should not expect others to do all the work.  (Do something, even it it is only to fetch tools.
  11. When a vehicle is disabled, everyone should provide assistance.
  12. The driver of a disabled vehicle that is repaired on the trail needs to return or replace any borrowed tools, parts or supplies.
  13. In the event of a rollover or other dangerous situation with potential for a fire, all drivers should rush to the scene with their fire extinguishers.
  14. When approaching oncoming traffic the leader should warn the following vehicles via CB. 
  15. When vehicles are passing from the rear the last vehicle should warn the vehicles ahead via CB.
  16. On very narrow trails, when oncoming traffic approaches, the smaller group should attempt to pull off the road to allow the larger group to pass.
  17. In steep terrain, if there isn't room to pass or pull over, the vehicles headed down hill must back up. (Vehicles should back uphill not down hill.) California Vehicle Code 21661
  18. On narrow trails, where vehicles headed in one direction must pull off the trail, the leader of the group that is proceeding should inform the other group how many vehicles are following.  The last vehicle in the group that is proceeding should confirm that he is last.
  19. When approaching an obstacle going uphill, the driver ahead should move far enough ahead to allow the vehicle behind to clear the obstacle but remain close in case the following vehicle needs to be pulled.
  20. When an uphill bound driver requests a spotter, it is usually best if the spotter come from the vehicle behind if there is an experienced spotter aboard.
  21. When going downhill it is usually best if an experienced spotter comes from the vehicle ahead.
  22. When stopped on a trail for a break, all vehicles should allow room for other vehicles to pass.
  23. Dogs should be kept on a leash or left in camp.
  24. Remove all your trash and pick up trash left by others.
  25. Tread Lightly.  Avoid damage to the environment.
  26. Remain on established trails.
  27. Be considerate and keep music volume low.  Not everyone enjoys your choice of music.
  28. Re: Alcohol on the Trial.  (Click)
  29. Use appropriate language on the radio, during rest stops and in camp.  This is a "Family Oriented" group.
  30. Only one person should spot, except if others see a potential danger.
  31. When convoying on the highway, turn headlights on day and night.
  32. When convoying on the highway, leave room between vehicles to allow other cars to pass.
  33. Once the person behind you has cleared an obstacle, move your vehicle far enough ahead or off the trail so all other vehicles can clear the obstacle.
  34. When attempting an obstacle, accept a tow after 3 unsuccessful tries. Do not risk injury or vehicle damage.  Don't tear up the trail for others by spinning your wheels.
  35. If a damaged vehicle leaves the Group, provide an escort to a safe area.  Never leave a disabled vehicle's occupants on the trail without another vehicle.  
  36. Tow straps and winch controllers should be available and easily accessible not "buried" in the back of your vehicle.
  37. Be considerate...when passing other vehicles, hikers, equestrians or camps, slow down for safety as well as to lessen your dust cloud.

 

 

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