E-Bikes, Etiquette, and Everything in Between!
Spring is here, and that means a new season of adventures on the trails in West Bragg Creek. With longer days and warmer weather, it’s time to gear up for the summer biking season in this much-loved, multi-use trail network.
West Bragg Creek has a great selection of cross-country trails for mountain biking, offering something for everyone — from wider, easier trails for a relaxed ride to twisty, flowy singletrack that keeps things fun and technical. As always, it’s important to remember that West Bragg Creek’s trails are multi-use, meaning they’re shared with hikers, trail runners, equestrians, dog walkers, and more. With that in mind, it’s essential for mountain bikers to be aware of their surroundings and respectful of other users. Everyone shares the responsibility of making each pass safe, courteous, and positive.
There are a few basic etiquette rules that can go a long way in reducing trail conflicts and keeping things friendly. You’ve probably seen the “right of way triangle,” which outlines who should yield to whom, but even with those general guidelines, communication and common sense rule the trail.
One of the biggest shifts in recent years has been the increased use of electric bikes, or e-bikes, on the trails. With this relatively new addition to the user group mix, we’ve seen it all and we’re working hard to help create clear etiquette guidelines so everyone can enjoy the trails peacefully
and responsibly.
E-Bikes on the Crown Land
The Type of E-Bikes Permitted:
- Must be pedal-assist only (no throttles)
- Power assistance must stop when you stop pedaling
- Assistance must also stop once the bike reaches 32 km/hr
- E-bikes must not exceed 500 watts of continuous power output
Where Pedal-Assisted E-Bikes Are Allowed:
- In the Kananaskis Public Land Use Zone E-bikes are permitted on the trails unless otherwise posted
- In Alberta Provincial Parks or Provincial Recreation Areas, on public roadways, designated trails and pathways where biking is permitted
Always pay attention to posted signs and publications.
General Bike Etiquette for Multi-Use Trails
Whether you’re on a traditional mountain bike or an e-bike, the same core principles apply. Here’s a refresher to help keep our trail community safe and enjoyable for everyone:
- Be friendly and respectful to all users
- Bikes typically yield to others, but the real rule is: whoever can move aside safely should
- Use your voice or a bell when passing, and give people space
- Riders climbing have the right of way over those descending
- Let others know how many are in your group when passing
- Keep your dog(s) close and under control
- When descending, make some noise to let others know you’re coming
- Look ahead while climbing to avoid surprises
- If you’re slowing others down, find a safe spot to pull over and wave them through
- If you’re looking to pass, clearly communicate, wait until it’s safe or you’re invited to go
- STRAVA times don’t outrank safety or good trail manners
- Avoid using headphones — stay alert and aware
- Don’t stop in the middle of trails or congest trail junctions
- If you encounter horses, stop and ask riders how to pass safely
E-Bike-Specific Trail Etiquette
E-bikes bring a few additional considerations to the trail. While all the general etiquette rules still apply, there are a couple things to keep in mind:
- Given their power and speed advantages, e-bikes should yield to non-e-bikes. Crawling up behind someone’s back
tire can be intimidating — leave space and be patient. - E-bikes are often heavier and less responsive than traditional bikes, especially when it comes to braking and cornering. Ride in control, especially around others or in tight sections.
- Communicate clearly, anticipate sudden stops, and ride with the same care and awareness you’d want from others.
As trail use continues to grow, we all play a role in protecting the places we love. Practicing good etiquette, respecting trail rules, and sharing space with kindness helps keep our trails safe, sustainable, and welcoming for everyone — whether you’re riding solo, with a crew, or with your four- legged trail buddy.
Have a safe and fun riding season out in West Bragg Creek this summer and thank you for being part of this amazing trail community.
To learn more about trail use, volunteer opportunities, or how to support Bragg Creek Trails, visit: www.braggcreektrails.org
Conrad Schiebel (BCT President)
