Responsible Recreation - It Takes All of Us
Trails provide a safe place for connecting to nature, supporting activities like hiking, biking, running, and horseback riding, as well as wildflower and wildlife viewing and photography.
Dig Day goals are designed to ensure the trails at Mount Diablo State Park are both welcoming for park visitors and protective of ecological and cultural resources
Dig Day participation does not provide anyone special exemption from having to comply with park rules or trail regulations
PLEASE HELP PROTECT THE TRAILS WITH THESE BEST PRACTICES:
Abide
Stay on designated trails to protect the watershed, flora, fauna and wildlife
When trails are muddy, do not hike, run or ride on them
o Foot, tire or horseshoe damage on muddy trails (especially below Mount Diablo’s Junction Ranger Station) can cause safety and environmental hazards
o Please consider alternate activities and return to the park another day when trail conditions are more favorable
Observe the Right of Way Triangle
o Yield means temporarily stop and move to the side of the trail
o Bikes must yield to hikers, runners and horses
When there are limited clearance or safe passing options, dismount from bike to signal that right of way has been established for everyone’s safety
o Hikers and runners must yield to horses
Use a bell to alert others
o When on a bike, use a bell (e.g., Spur Cycle or Timber Bell) to alert trail users of impending approach
o Bell usage does not exempt a cyclist from yielding, however
Remember, some trail users may be hearing impaired
Be situationally aware
o Do not wear headphones in both ears
o Externally played music (e.g., portable speaker) or bike-related noises (e.g., free hub spinning or squeaky brakes) can startle horses, potentially causing risk of injury or death for equestrian and horse
Thank you for your cooperation.
To learn more about trail etiquette best practices, please visit the official Mount Diablo State Park website and scroll down to Safety Tips.