Riding Responsibly: Trail Safety + Etiquette

Image credit: Dylan Juchemich, @jukendorf

Hey there, Copper Harbor trail users! Nick here, CHTC’s trail coordinator, dropping some friendly reminders to help keep you, your fellow trail users, and our wildlife safe and happy. Whether you're here for a chill ride or a full send, following basic trail safety and etiquette helps keep our system running smoothly for everyone.

1. Mountain bikers yield to hikers

Just because our trails are world-renowned for how awesome they are to mountain bike on does not mean that they are only open for biking. Hikers are allowed on all two-way trails, including the Keweenaw Point Trail, Garden Brook, Red Trail, and more. It is the biker's responsibility to give the hiker safe passage on our trails. Don't like having to slow down or stop when there is a hiker in your path? Try our dedicated biking-only downhill trails, all of which are one-way trails that are closed to hikers.

2. Ride in control and within your abilities

If you are riding too fast for trail conditions, the capability of your bike, or beyond your skills, you are putting yourself and others in danger. Many of our trails are two-way, meaning someone could be climbing uphill around that blind corner just as you are bombing down. Stay in control at all times and be ready to stop at a moment's notice. If you encounter an obstacle or trail that is over your ability, please dismount and walk your bike. There is no shame in walking away in one piece when the alternative could be severe injury.

3. Uphill traffic has the right-of-way

Except for our dedicated downhill trails, all of our trails are open for both climbing and descending. Uphill traffic always has the right-of-way. It is much easier to get back up to speed if you have to stop while going downhill. Don't force a group of climbers off the trail just because you want to cruise through a berm or sweet line. Come to a stop, give the uphill rider space to keep riding, and carry on when the coast is clear.

4. Respect Wildlife and the Environment

Copper Harbor is surrounded by seemingly endless forests that are home to all sorts of wildlife. These animals often use our trails and live in the habitats adjacent to them. Please do not disturb any wild animals you see in the area, and be patient with those that you may find in your path. We are in their home and have the power to lessen our impact so that they may live in peace. Always pack out your trash with you and please don't damage local plants during your visit.

5. Keep Control of Your Dog

Dogs are welcome on our trails if they are leashed or under your direct control. Even a friendly dog can pose a hazard or annoy others along the trail, particularly if they are not close. Wildlife especially does not appreciate being chased by unleashed dogs, nor do other trail users. Not everyone who uses our trails (humans or otherwise) wants to see your pooch.

6. No Horses or Motorized Vehicles

Both horses and motorized vehicles of all types are not permitted on our trails. Horses may be non-motorized, but their heavy hooves chew up trails and cause significant damage to natural surface trails – not to mention nobody likes stepping or riding through horse manure. Motorized vehicles are able to exert forces beyond what our trails were designed for and also can cause severe damage. They are also able to move more quickly and disrupt others' peaceful enjoyment of our quiet forests. (State of Michigan Bicyclist Safety Information + Guidance). Note: Class 1 E-Bikes are permitted. More on this below.

7. Heed Trail Closure Notices and Signage for Trail Safety + Etiquette

If a trail is marked as closed, it is probably for your own safety. A bridge may be out or crews could be working to repair or build a new section of trail. We aren't kidding: bears often close Dancing Bear at peak berry season. For your safety and that of others, steer clear of all closed trails and return to ride another day. Always heed safety signage because it is probably there for a reason.  

Also, the Keweenaw Mountain Lodge serves as the headquarters for the Keweenaw Dark Sky Park. Several trails are located near this designated area, and we kindly ask that riders avoid these trails at night. Trails marked “Dark Sky Park” are open during daylight hours only. Most of these trails include the Brockway and the Mountain Lodge parts of the trail system.To help protect the night sky, please refrain from using artificial lights on these trails.

8. Plan ahead for anything (especially in the trails beyond East Bluff)

Before you head out for a ride or hike, be sure to check the weather forecast. Storms can roll in quickly off of the lake with little warning. Always prepare a few essentials in a pack before heading out, including rainwear, snacks, water, insect repellant, sunscreen, a map, and spare tubes in case of a flat. Don't rely on your cell phone in case you get into trouble; Copper Harbor is notorious for its terrible cell reception. Instead, let someone know where you are going and when you plan to return. The trails beyond East Bluff are truly a backcountry style wilderness experience. This means no cell reception and long and difficult emergency response. Please keep that in mind when choosing your route. 

• A map (don’t rely solely on your phone)

• Plenty of water and snacks

• Sunscreen and a basic first-aid kit

• Tools for small bike repairs

• Layers or a rain shell

  
  

9. Obey the Rules of the Road

Bicyclists are legally allowed to ride on public roadways in Michigan. However, you must obey the rules of the road to keep yourself and others safe. All bikers must ride reasonably close to the righthand shoulder at no more than two abreast. Do not hog the lane, block traffic at the end of the trail, or ride on the wrong side of the road. You must use lights on your bike if you ride after dark so that others may see you. Additional laws and explanations can be found by visiting Michigan Bicycling Law.

10. Be Courteous

Our trails share a busy area with many other recreational users flocking to Copper Harbor's natural splendor. From ORVs to campers to motorcyclists to paddlers and everyone in between, everyone wants a piece of this charming paradise. Believe it or not, there are also a handful of people that live in Copper Harbor year-round! It is important that our trail users put their best foot forward when interacting with the community. Don't ride across lawns, litter, drink and ride, or any other harmful activities. All it takes is that one proverbial 'bad apple' to make all mountain bikers look disrespectful.

11. E-Bike Trail Safety + Etiquette 

We know e-bikes are growing in popularity, and we welcome Class 1 pedal-assist eMTBs on our non-motorized trails. But with extra power comes extra responsibility.

Here’s how to ride e-bikes responsibly at Copper Harbor:

• Know where they’re allowed: Only Class 1 pedal-assist bikes are permitted. Throttle-powered e-bikes are not allowed.

• Ride like everyone else: Just because you can climb faster doesn’t mean you should buzz past others. Yield to hikers and uphill riders, and be courteous when passing.

• Stay in control: The added speed and weight of e-bikes mean braking and cornering require more care.

• Respect trail conditions: Avoid riding in muddy or sensitive areas where your tires could do more damage than you realize.

  
  

Not sure what class your e-bike is or what’s allowed where? Just ask — we’re here to help!

Why It All Matters

When we ride respectfully and follow general trail safety and etiquette guidelines, we protect access for all users — now and into the future. These trails exist because of years of hard work, community support, and shared stewardship. Let’s keep the good thing going.

See you out there, ride safe, ride smart, and don’t forget to enjoy the view.

— Copper Harbor Trails Club Team