Draper City releases video on trail etiquette for popular Corner Canyon trails

(Draper City)


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DRAPER — In response to several concerns voiced by users of the Corner Canyon trail system, Draper's Parks and Recreation Department has released a new video titled Corner Canyon Trail Etiquette.

The video features several local users of the trail who help illustrate many of the citizen’s concerns, and Greg Hilbig, Draper's trails and open space manager, said it was done in an effort to educate the public on how to properly get along while also enjoying the trail system.

“We, trails and open space staff along with our volunteer Trail Ambassador Program, decided to put out an informative video concerning rules of etiquette in Corner Canyon,” Hilbig said. “We have had complaints for years of people nearly being run over by bikes because not everyone knows trail etiquette. … We have noticed more and more new and inexperienced users who just don’t know the rules.”

Hilbig said that the city now has a full-time park ranger who patrols the canyon and can issue citations. However, he believes that information and education work better than enforcement and hopes that by outlining the following rules and guidelines, users will take the appropriate actions to make the canyon a great place for everyone.

1. Be courteous and aware

In Corner Canyon, some trails double as roads. It is important when on these sections to always stay to the right. This ensures that you are obeying the traffic laws that should ultimately keep you safe.

When making your way downhill on any trail, it is courteous to yield to all uphill traffic and bikers should yield to all other users. Also, if you stop to enjoy the views, always step off the trail.

If you find that you are approaching a horse, make sure to let the horse and rider know that you are coming simply by vocalizing your presence. Doing this will help keep the horse from being spooked.

2. No camping or open flames

Corner Canyon is for day-use only. There is no camping permitted, and no open flames of any kind, including campfires, smoking or fireworks.

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3. No littering — clean up after and take care of animals

Littering is illegal and is a Class B misdemeanor, carrying a minimum fine of $100. If you bring food or other potential garbage, make sure to pack it out when you leave.

You also need to clean up animal waste. The city asks its trail users to clean up after dogs and horses and not leave behind any droppings.

The city wants to remind people that dogs must be on a leash at all times because it is both a city and state law. When taking dogs in the canyon, remain below the Bonneville Shoreline Trail, away from protected watershed areas.

4. Don’t use trails if they are muddy

When the trails are muddy, it is best to stay off them. Footprints and tire tracks will create large divots and holes in the trail that will stay there for a long time, making it hard for others to enjoy the trails when the terrain has dried out. They are also difficult to repair.

As a general rule, if mud is sticking to your heels, wheels or hooves, turn around.

Corner Canyon resident, trail ambassador and race director John Maack, who was featured in the video, says he understands that conflicts occur, but hopes the video can help educate the public.

“Corner Canyon is a multi-use trail system, so conflict is inevitable,” Maack said. “As a Corner Canyon trail user and race director, I feel trail etiquette is extremely important to ensure all users have an enjoyable experience while in the canyon. People need to be responsible and conscious about how their actions and use of the trails affect another’s experience so that we can all get along. We hope the video will help educate users and over time people will become more aware of the guidelines and do the right thing.”


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About the Author: Arianne Brown \-------------------------------

Arianne Brown is a mother of seven young children who loves hearing and sharing stories. For more writings by her, search "A Mother's Write" on Facebook or Twitter @A_Mothers_Write

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