This is a new feature of my blog.
Okay, it’s really not, but since I got a question today, I might as well make it out like it is a “Dear Abby” kind of thing!
So, I received this question:
Dear Goddess of All Things Rail Trail,
How annoyed are you when runners and walkers invade the bike trail? What side would you prefer they move to?? The reason I ask, is that I went for a run (first one since I’ve been here) on the new rail trail. There were many walkers, a few runners, and even fewer bikers. (Although I don’t even know why you’d even bother to bike the trail, since it’s only 4 miles out and back.)
Anyway, just wanted to check with the expert!
B in Boston
Dear B in Boston,
If you want to know how I feel about rail trails in general, see http://goddessofallthingslovely.blogspot.com/2009/03/adventures-in-cycling-for-george.html.
Back to your dilemma…
In a perfect rail trail world, walkers, runners, bikers, and horse riders co-exist and live peacefully on the rail trail.
Yeah, not!
Anyway, everyone is supposed to act on the rail trail, as noted in this sign:
Err, I have no idea what this means either, but let me tell you what I think it means. As a runner, you have no cred whatsoever! That or this is a sign we have left in case aliens land on the rail trail.
As a cyclist, when I see a runner/walker situated on the right side of the trail, I always say, “On your left.” When I say this, it is my intention to tell the person in the right lane that I’m passing them on the left. Though every now and then, this fails especially if the person is in their own little rail trail world; s/he usually moves to the left thinking s/he has heard “Move to your left!” not "On your left!"
Like you, I don’t know why cyclists would be out on a trail that only allowed them 8 miles roundtrip. Though for some, who aren't extreme and crazed cyclists like me, I'm sure an 8 mile round trip bike ride might be a feat; just as for me, 8 push-ups would be a feat!
But, B, at the end of the day, I think you have to just go out there and run. Never mind the rest of the rail trail world. Do YOUR thing, whatever it is, and no matter what just be nice to everyone, which I know you will anyway.
The Goddess of All Things Rail Trail
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