Shared Trails, Shared Responsibility
We’re all about building awesome trails and a welcoming community of outdoor lovers—mountain bikers, hikers, and trail runners alike. Whether you’re brand new to the trails or you’ve been here since the first berm was built, it’s always good to brush up on trail etiquette.
Ride What’s Right: What You Can (and Can’t) Ride on FAST Trails
FAST trails are designed for foot-powered adventures, and we want everyone to enjoy them safely and respectfully.
Here’s a quick rundown of what’s allowed (and what’s not):
✅ GOOD TO GO:
Mountain bikes (hardtail, full suspension, fat bikes—you name it)
Cross or gravel bikes
Class 1 e-bikes (pedal-assist only, no throttle, max speed 20 mph)
🚫 NOT PERMITTED ON FAST TRAILS:
Motorcycles or dirt bikes
Throttle-powered e-bikes
One wheels
Scooters (electric or gas-powered)
Any other throttle-powered or motorized devices
If your ride has a throttle or doesn’t require pedaling to move, it’s not permitted on FAST trails.
These guidelines help preserve our singletrack, minimize trail damage, and ensure we maintain positive relationships with landowners and partners who make our trail access possible.
Sharing the Trail: Friendly Etiquette Tips for All Trail Users
Keeping the trails fun, safe, and sustainable takes all of us—bikers, hikers, and runners included. Here are a few simple ways to be a great trail citizen:
1. Be Nice, Say Hi
A friendly “hello” or wave goes a long way. Whether you're passing or being passed, kindness helps keep the vibe positive.
2. Yield the Right Way
Uphill users (especially bikers) have the right of way.
Bikers should yield to hikers and runners at all times.
Communicate clearly when passing—“on your left” is always appreciated.
3. Keep It Clean
Take out everything you bring in—snack wrappers, water bottles, tubes, and more.
4. Ride and Run in Control
Keep your speed in check and ride or run within your limits—especially around blind corners or busy sections. If you wear earbuds, consider keeping one ear open so you can still hear other trail users approaching. Awareness is key to avoiding collisions and keeping everyone safe out there.
5. Respect Trail Conditions
If your tires or shoes are leaving deep ruts or footprints, it’s too wet to use the trail. Riding or running on muddy trails causes damage that takes a lot of volunteer hours to repair.
Trail etiquette:
If You See Something, Say Something (Nicely)
Sometimes people aren’t aware of the rules—and that’s okay! If you spot someone on the trail using a throttle-powered ride or something that doesn’t belong, and you feel safe and comfortable, feel free to politely let them know what’s allowed.
FAST’s policy always aligns with the city of Sioux Falls on these matters. There are no motorized vehicles allowed on ANY trails with the exception of specific eBikes. See the policy here:
Sioux Falls Bicycling & Recreational Trail Ordinances https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/siouxfalls/latest/siouxfalls_sd/0-0-0-55313
If you happen to run into an individual on any unauthorized motorized device, please nicely inform them of this policy. We want to be a positive force for the sport of mountain biking and they may not be aware of this rule.
If you’d rather not engage directly, you can also contact the non-emergency police line to report motorized use on trails. (605) 367-7212
We all share a responsibility to keep FAST trails safe, respectful, and fun for everyone.
Help Keep Our Trails Thriving
FAST trails are built and maintained by passionate local volunteers, and supported by members of the Sioux Falls community. If you love what we do, consider becoming a FAST member, joining a trail work day, or making a donation to support the trails you ride, run, and hike.
Respect the trail. Respect each other. Keep the stoke high.