Storm Lake’s LakeTrail is a great way to enjoy the great outdoors. Five miles of paved trail runs all along the beautiful city shoreline and through the parks system. Enjoy this fantastic resource, but please follow a few simple etiquette guidelines to make sure everyone has a safe, enjoyable time.
1. STAY RIGHT, PASS LEFT - Stay to the right whether biking or hiking, so others can safely pass. For bikes, single file is best when others are on the trail. For walkers or runners, two or three people spread across the entire trail can be as annoying as it is hazardous.
2. WHO GOES FIRST? - Bike riders using the trail should yield to pedestrians and skaters, skaters yield to walkers and runners. Leave plenty of room when passing those on foot – especially children who may make unexpected moves.
3. DON’T BE A FLAT STANLEY - Cars turning across a trail are to yield to any trail users, but take nothing for granted - walkers, runners and bikers on the trails should always look carefully before crossing a street.
4. BEEP BEEP - Bike riders passing others should consider giving an audible warning, such as “Hello, passing on your left,” or using a bell. Walkers and riders using headphones or earbuds need to be especially aware of surroundings, as they may not hear other users coming.
5. EBIKES: NO ZOOMIES - Bikes with electric motors are required to travel at under 20 miles per hour on shared-use paths in Iowa. Generally, 15 mph should be tops in such surroundings. When the trail is busy, all riders should adjust speed accordingly.
6. CLEAR THE DECKS - Conversation, sightseeing and photography are great – but step off the trail for it. Making others step/ride off the trail to get around you is dirty look-worthy.
7. DOGGONE MANNERS - Walking a furry friend on the trail is super, but pets must be leashed in public areas. Avoid lengthy or retractable leashes that can make dogs a hazard wandering into the path of other walkers or bicyclists. Animals that are aggressive don’t belong on a busy trail. Also, pick up pet poop please. There are several handy pet waste stations along the trail.
8. LIGHT BRIGHT - Avoid flashing/blinkie headlights when riding at night. Use a steady-mode that is less blinding to others, and makes it easier for oncoming persons to judge a bike’ speed and location. Reflective gear is a great idea.
9. LEAVE NO TRACE – Being trashy is a bad look, so don’t litter – it’s common courtesy. All of the parks along the trail have trash receptacles.
10. IOWA NICE - Above all, respect the Golden Rule. Be kind and courteous. Say hi to people. Slow down when the trail is busy. Be patient when passing. Have fun out there!