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Trail User Information

TERMINOLOGY | TRAIL SYMBOLS | SAFETY TIPS

The main purpose of this site is to provide park trail maps that are easy to download and print from your own computer of our signed and sanctioned trails in M-NCPPC Montgomery Parks.

Terminology

  • Shared by All - Unless noted otherwise on the map, trails are "Shared by All" which includes hikers, bikers and equestrians.
  • Natural Surface Trails - Natural surface trails are typically narrow (2-4 feet wide) dirt trails. Types of uses associated with these trails are hiking, horseback riding and all-terrain biking. Unless noted othewise on the trail map, natural surface trails are "shared by all".
  • Hard Surface Trails - Hard surface trails may include asphalt paths but they may also be any firm and stable surface capable of supporting casual walkers and cyclists.
  • Motorized Vehicles - Motorized vehicles are not allowed on any of our trails.
  • Connector Trails - Connector trails generally provide access from nearby neighborhoods. Trail Connectors are shown solely for neighborhood access. They may not be part of the main park trail system and may not be signed or maintained to park standards.
  • Location Map - A location map of each trail is provided on the web page for each of our trails. The location map shows the general location of the park and trail system in the County and the type of trails available at that location. Trails designated to specific users will be noted along with a brief summary of trail features, and major trail amenities. Here you will also find a link for a downloadable Adobe PDF map trail map that can be printed out and used while on trail.

Additional information about permitted uses of Park trails is available in the M-NCPPC Rules and Regulations, Chapter 6.

Trail Symbols

Below are the symbols used throughout our website and on our trail maps.

Trail User Key
Color key for trail usersTrails "shared by all" include hikers, bikers and equestrians. Motorized vehicles are not allowed on any of our trails.

Trail Connectors are shown solely for neighborhood access. They may not be part of the main park trail system and may not be signed or maintained to park standards.

Trail User Symbols

Trail Amenities
Biking Bicycles Permitted Dogs must be on leash Dog Park
Hiking Hiking permitted Drinking water Drinking Water
Horse back riding Horseback Riding Permitted Picnic area Picnic Area
Rollerblading Rollerblading Permitted Bathrooms Restrooms
Wheelchair access Wheelchair Accessible Phone Telephone
    Information Information
       

Activities

Access & Information
Campground Campground Metro stop Metro Stop
Fishing Area Fishing Parking Parking
Scenic overlook Scenic Overlook    

Alert Symbols

  
Caution Caution!    
Hospital Hospital    
Steep slope Steep Slope    

Safety Tips

Trails are shared recreation amenities and are accessed by a variety of users at the same time. Please be courteous to all users, and remember that pedestrians have the right-of-way.

  • All trail users should stay to the right on the trail.
  • Never use the trails at dark and always follow posted regulations.
  • Bicyclists should pull off the trail when stopping to avoid a possible accident.
  • Bicyclists approaching pedestrians should make an advanced noise using voice, bell, or horn to avoid startling walkers.
  • Bicyclists should always wear a helmet and ride at speeds that do not exceed 12 miles per hour.
  • Pets should be kept on short leash and people must clean up after their pets.
  • Be sure to carry identification (which includes name, phone number, and pertinent medical information), and record your bicycle serial number.
  • Carry coins for phone calls or have a cell phone.
  • Prior to using new trail take the time to familiarize yourself with the trail and plan your route.
  • Tell friends or family the route you'll be taking, and always travel with a partner when possible.
  • Avoid unfamiliar areas when on the trails alone.
  • Stay alert, be observant about your surroundings and avoid areas where visibility is poor.
  • Never wear headsets.
  • Wear reflective material and carry a whistle or noisemaker.
  • Use discretion when acknowledging strangers, and follow your intuition about unfamiliar people and areas.
  • When on roadways, remember to ride with traffic, but walk and run against traffic.
  • Always carry tools to repair minor issues and especially have supplies to change a flat tire.
  • Trails are available for use from sunrise to sunset each day.

 

Last update: February 14, 2013