I walk routinely in this area, usually on sidewalks but sometimes on trails. I’ve been hit or nearly hit by bicyclists. With miles of bicycle trails, I’m constantly amazed at how arrogant local bicyclists are. Usually people tell me they are afraid to ride in traffic. Here’s my take: Colorado law requires you to use a bike lane unless there is something in that lane. There are actually handbooks for how to ride safely on mixed-use paths.
Riding in traffic means maintaining your lane and obeying all the traffic rules, including stopping or yielding for pedestrians. This includes intersections and other breaks. It also means stopping at lights unless there is no traffic.
Aggressive cycling shouldn’t be present here. Slow down, especially on trails, yield to pedestrians and people with kids and dogs. Also don’t tailgate or act surprised when pedestrians tell you to use the bike lanes. You are traffic and they are for you. You don’t belong on sidewalks; good bicycling manners make more people want to cycle, too. That’s a good thing.
Durango does have bicycle rules and they are available online https://www.durangoco.gov/356/Bike. The speed limit is 10 miles per hour on most trails.
Nevvie Warren
Durango
