The Allegheny Valley Trails Association (AVTA) has constructed this trail system
through an all volunteer, non-profit organization using funding obtained from federal,
state and local grant sources, private donations and volunteer labor. The goal of
constructing the trails is to provide multipurpose, non-motorized recreational trails open
to the public for recreation, transportation and to provide for economic development
related to ecotourism.
As AVTA has purchased the property and/or obtained legal right-of-way agreements with
landowners; obtained grant funding through sources that include restrictions to the use of
the facility; and seeks to provide a safe, enjoyable experience accessible to the general
public, the following policies and restrictions are in place:
Trail Rules and Etiquette
- Non-motorized use only.
- See also the Mobility Device Use Policy
- E-bikes which comply with the Pennsylvania General Assembly definition
(electric motors 750 watts or less, bike weighs less than 100 lb) are
allowed on the AVTA trails. Maximum speed is 20 mph. Be courteous,
when approaching from behind slow down and announce that you are
passing. When approaching from the front, slow down.
- In areas with adjacent access pathways, authorized users only are permitted to
use those pathways. Motorized vehicles are not permitted on the trail.
- Stay to the right side of the trail and pass to the left side of the trail.
- Helmets and safety equipment are recommended.
- Bicycles and other wheeled users always yield to pedestrians. Slow down, call
out or ring bell when passing or say "Passing to your left".
- Don't block the trail. Groups should be in single file when other trail users are
present and should never use more than one half of the trail to allow for the flow
of traffic.
- Remember to regularly check behind you for oncoming traffic.
- Respect public and private property. Stay on the trail.
- Obey all trail signs and temporary construction or warning signs.
- Trail closures may at times be necessary due to maintenance.
- No trail activity is permitted on closed sections of the trail.
- Watch the wildlife but do not feed them.
Pets
- Pets are permitted on the trail.
- Keep pets on a leash at all times to prevent accidents; they should never be left unattended.
- Keep pet waste off trail.
Camping
- Camping is permitted on land owned by AVTA or affiliated organizations.
- Build fires in fire rings. Make sure fires are completely extinguished when leaving.
Leave No Trace
- Littering along trails is prohibited.
- If you pack it in, pack it out.
- Do not break off tree limbs or pick or damage plants growing along the trail.
- Take only pictures; leave only tracks. Please stay on the trail.
- Do not leave the trail system and travel cross country, or attempt "shortcuts."
Safety on the Trail
It is every trail user's responsibility and right to ensure their own safety and expect
safe practice from other trail users. Exercise caution at all times, follow guidelines
and rules of the trails. Preventing accidents or injuries is the first step; acting
responsibly if something does happen is the second.
Emergency
- Call 911
- Keep note of the name of the trail, mileage markers, road crossings to be able to
tell emergency personnel where you are
Take only memories - leave only footprints!
