Katy Trail Etiquette: Sharing the Trail with Courtesy & Common Sense
- Olga Marquez
- Mar 19
- 4 min read
The Katy Trail is a special place where cyclists, walkers, runners, and even horseback riders come together to enjoy Missouri’s beautiful landscape. With so many different users on the trail, good etiquette makes everyone’s experience better—and a little courtesy goes a long way.
Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist, a casual walker, or a weekend runner, understanding the best practices for passing, yielding, and coexisting can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable time for all.
Here’s a breakdown of trail etiquette, clearing up some of the most common misunderstandings and helping everyone enjoy the Katy Trail safely and stress-free.
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The Basics: Official Katy Trail Rules
According to Missouri State Parks, these are the official guidelines for sharing the Katy Trail:
✅ Stay to the right unless passing.
✅ Announce your presence when passing. A friendly "Passing on your left!" or a bell ring helps.
✅ Yield to slower users. Cyclists yield to pedestrians, and everyone yields to horseback riders.
✅ Pass with care. Slow down when needed and give enough space.
✅ Keep pets leashed and under control. Long leashes can be dangerous.
✅ Be predictable. Sudden movements make passing difficult.
✅ Keep the trail clear. Groups should move single-file when others approach.
➡️ Source: Missouri State Parks Trail Etiquette
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Cyclists: How to Pass Safely & Keep the Trail Enjoyable 🚴♂️
Cyclists make up a huge part of the trail’s visitors, and most are courteous and mindful of others. However, some walkers and runners have concerns about passing etiquette.
Here’s how to keep interactions smooth and friendly:
✅ Give a friendly verbal warning before passing—“Passing on your left” works best.
✅ Announce early (about 5-10 seconds before passing) to avoid startling anyone.
✅ If using a bell, ring it well in advance.
✅ Slow down if the trail is crowded—especially when passing families, dogs, or horseback riders.
✅ If someone acknowledges your warning, a quick “thank you” is always nice!
One cyclist summed it up well:🗣 "The best you can do is be courteous, warn them, and thank them if they acknowledge your call-out."
👉 Common challenges cyclists face:
Some pedestrians wear headphones and don’t hear warnings.
Walkers may unexpectedly move left instead of staying right.
Dogs on long leashes can create unpredictable situations.
💡 Solution? Stay patient, pass with care, and keep enjoying the ride!
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Walkers, Runners & Hikers: Sharing the Trail with Cyclists 🚶♀️🏃
For walkers and runners, trail etiquette is just as important as it is for cyclists. Many cyclists are careful and respectful, but they also need predictable movement from those on foot.
Here’s how to make sharing the trail easier:
✅ Stay to the right unless passing.
✅ If you hear “On your left,” stay steady—don’t move left!
✅ Be aware of your surroundings, especially if wearing headphones.
✅ If you’re with a group, avoid blocking the trail.
One runner shared:🗣 “I appreciate when cyclists say ‘Good morning, bicycle coming up!’ instead of just ‘On your left.’ It helps me react calmly.”
Many cyclists love and respect the trail as much as walkers do, so a little teamwork helps everyone have a great time!
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Horseback Riders: What Cyclists & Walkers Should Know 🏇
Horses are majestic but can spook easily, so passing them requires extra care.
If you’re a cyclist or runner passing a horseback rider:
✅ Slow down and call out from a distance.
✅ Give the rider time to respond—they’ll guide you on how to pass safely.
✅ If unsure, pass as wide as possible.
One cyclist said:🗣 “Most horse riders I’ve met actually thank me for being considerate of their horse’s needs.”
💡 If you’re on horseback:
✔ Let others know if your horse is nervous or skittish.
✔ Wave or speak to let cyclists and runners know how to pass.
Cyclists and horseback riders can absolutely share the trail with ease—it just takes communication.
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What About Speed? E-Bikes & Faster Riders ⚡🚴♀️
Most trails have an unspoken 15 mph speed limit, though this isn’t an official rule. Some cyclists and e-bike riders prefer higher speeds, while walkers prefer a slower, more relaxed pace.
🚴 What works best?
✅ If the trail is crowded, adjust speed accordingly.
✅ If you’re riding fast, be extra mindful when passing.
✅ If an e-bike is approaching, a verbal signal or bell is even more important.
One rider noted: 🗣 “I was riding 16 mph when three e-bikes passed me like I was sitting still. It surprised me, but they gave me plenty of space, so no problem.”
💡 Compromise is key. Speed is okay when the trail allows for it—just be mindful of others!
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Final Thoughts: Let’s Keep the Katy Trail Welcoming for Everyone
The Katy Trail is for all users, and most cyclists, walkers, and runners already do a great job of sharing the space.
By following a few simple etiquette rules, we can all enjoy the trail without frustration:
✔ Cyclists: Call out early, slow down when needed, and be courteous.
✔ Walkers & runners: Stay right, be predictable, and acknowledge passers.
✔ Horseback riders: Communicate with others on how to pass safely.
✔ Everyone: Be patient and respectful—we’re all here to enjoy the outdoors!
The Katy Trail is one of Missouri’s gems, and with a little courtesy, we can all keep it a safe, friendly, and fun place to ride, walk, and explore.
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