A Hidden Treasure in our Backyard- A story of the W&OD Trail

Several years ago I decided that I had had enough of sitting on my sofa watching my backside and my waistline increase with each passing day. So, with the motivation of my good buddy Steve I got off my duff and started running. At first it was only a few blocks at most (I thought I was going to die that first week!) but slowly and gradually those blocks turned into miles. Before long my jogs and bike rides would find me on the W&OD trail for hours at a time. The more time I spent on the trail the more I appreciated its unique standing in our community. You see, the W&OD trail isn’t just a trail for us wannbe athletes; it’s a time machine the can take you back to how the county once looked, a social and economic barrier breaker that allows people of all color and social standing to ride, walk and run together, a reprieve from traffic, a nature preserve, and a place to find spirituality.

What’s the best way to enjoy this great community treasure and what is some simple etiquette everyone should follow?

There are really no limits to what you can do on the trail. You can run, walk, bike, roller blade, unicycle (yep I’ve seen one on the trail), ride a horse and more. If you like unpaved trails or roughing it a bit there are side trails you can hop on and off. The only real no-no’s are motorized anything. If it’s got a motor it cannot be on the trail PERIOD.

What is some etiquette that should be observed so everyone can enjoy the tail?

Trash: This is my biggest pet peeve ever! Even though the trail gets cleaned up from time to time it is important that everyone do there part and not leave wrappers from power bars, jells and water bottles behind.

Passing: The trail gets tons of visitors during the weekend and at times in certain spots the trail can get rather congested. I suggest that if you are walking or running that you try and stay on the far right hand side of the trail. If you do need to pass someone calling out “on your left” is a good way to let people know you are coming and equally a great clue to move over to your right.

Four legged friends: Running on trail I tend to see lots of runners and walkers taking their four legged friends out for a stroll. Two quick etiquette tips here: 1. Please keep the dogs on a leash and 2. Pick up the waste.

Safety: There are several busy major intersections with stop signs along the trail. I would highly recommend that you not only stop at stop signs but that you also cross with caution. I’ve had several very close calls on Belmont Ridge Road and Sterling Blvd.

Here are some related links on the W&OD trail:

Friends of the W&OD

NVRPA

Enjoy the trail!

Chuck

BTW.. Don't forget to say "Hi" when you pass someone on the trail( very important rule;0)!).