The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County is partnering with regional forest preserve and park districts this May to promote safe, courteous trail use during National Bike Month.

DuPage forest preserves contain more than 175 miles of trails used by hikers, runners, cyclists, equestrians, wildlife-watchers, and other visitors. With so many people sharing the trails in different ways, officials encourage visitors to stay aware of their surroundings and follow basic trail etiquette.

Key safety reminders include keeping to the right, passing on the left, announcing when approaching from behind, keeping speeds under control, and yielding appropriately to others. To help prevent incidents, cyclists should slow down near other trail users and around curves and intersections.

Participating agencies include the forest preserve districts of DuPage, Kane, and Will counties and the Naperville Park District. The effort includes trailside messaging, social media outreach, and opportunities for visitors to speak with law enforcement officers to ask questions about trail rules.

Electric bicycles, or e-bikes, are rapidly becoming more common on local trails. Under Illinois law, e-bikes are grouped into three classes based on how they operate and their top assisted speed. Under current forest preserve and park district regulations, only Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes are permitted on trails.

“We want everyone, whether they’re walking, running, or riding, to feel safe and comfortable on the trails,” said Forest Preserve District of DuPage County Police Sgt. Rick Splittgerber. “Simple things like slowing down, communicating, and being aware of others make a big difference.”

For more information on trail safety and etiquette, visit the Forest Preserve District’s website and review its general use ordinance or read its “On Your Left: Trail Tips” blog.