ParkTalk Blog – Trail Safety: Reminders While Enjoying the Trails

Friday, May 30, 2025

On a nice day, it is common to see people traversing the local trails – walking, running, skating or biking – either solo or in a group. Trail systems are an excellent way to connect residents with one another while preserving natural landscapes, and they provide easy access to healthy outdoor exercise. The Naperville Park District is responsible for over 70 miles of trails connect throughout the city, and the Naperville Park District staff maintains them for the community. Best of all, residents frequently emphasize their appreciation of neighborhood trails and the broader network, and their enjoyment in using them. There are various types of trails in Naperville and many ways to use them. It’s also important to understand that there are safety aspects to be aware of in order to use trails in a safe manner and ensure that all trail users can have an enjoyable experience.

Share the Trails: Proper Etiquette

Since many people use our trails at different paces and for different purposes, proper trail etiquette is essential. Generally speaking, one of the most important trail-sharing rules is being aware of people around you. Everyone should ride, run and walk on the right-hand side of the trail to allow space on the left-hand side for faster trail users to pass. Faster trail users have the responsibility of alerting others to their presence. Runners and bikers approaching from behind often say, “On your left,” indicating to the slower trail user to stay on the right. Bikers and skaters should manage their activity at a modest speed so they can maintain control, anticipate other users’ actions, and safely communicate with everyone in a timely manner.

There are other trail-use protocols to keep in mind to demonstrate respect for Naperville’s trails and its users. As is the case in any outdoor setting, everyone should leave nature as they find it for others to enjoy. This includes disposing of any trash collected in the proper receptacles located along the trail or holding onto it until you can dispose of it later. Additionally, all dogs must be always kept on a leash in accordance with both City of Naperville and Park District ordinance; this is for the safety of your pet and other park and trail visitors. Lastly, pet owners are responsible for picking up after their dog. The Park District-placed Mutt Mitts, which are biodegradable waste bags, are available throughout several District parks for the convenience of pet owners; used Mutt Mitts should then be disposed of in proper waste receptacles. 

Bike Safety: What You Need to Know

Bike safety postcard created for the 2025 Regional Bike Safety Initiative.

Riverwalk regulation sign located near Firemen's Memorial Park.

Biking is one of the most popular recreational activities in Naperville, and the Park District’s extensive network of trails supports this activity’s popularity. As previously stated, bike riders are responsible for controlling their speed and maintaining awareness of other trail users around them. However, there are safety aspects pertinent to biking that all cyclists need to understand. For instance, e-bikes have become increasingly popular over the last few years. In 2022, U.S. sales of e-bikes topped $1.3 billion, and e-bike rentals in large cities like Chicago have made them more accessible than ever. In May 2025, the Naperville Park District participated in a Regional Bike Safety Initiative in collaboration with several regional recreation agencies to promote responsible bike riding and educate the public on e-bike classifications and regulations. E-bikes are classified into three categories:

• Class 1: Pedal-assist, up to 20 mph
• Class 2: Throttle activated, up to 20 mph
• Class 3: Pedal-assist, up to 28 mph

Please note, only Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes are allowed on Park District trails.

Additionally, bikers are restricted from riding on certain paths where foot traffic might be high. Although most trails in Naperville are biker-friendly, biking, in-line skating or skateboarding are not allowed on the Riverwalk – a 1.75-mile linear path located near Downtown Naperville. Riverwalk foot traffic is high year-round, but particularly during the summer. For the safety and enjoyment of those using the Riverwalk, the Naperville Park District asks everyone to “walk their wheels.” 

Park District "Walk Your Wheels" yard signs found throughout the Riverwalk.

Be Ready for Your Trail Adventure!

Now that we’ve covered the rules and important considerations, it’s time to get ready for some fun! However, before you hit the trail, a little preparation is needed as there are basic items everyone should have to make a hike, run or bike ride more enjoyable. To start, wearing the proper clothing is essential, which includes dressing for the weather and taking into account temperatures and humidity levels. This includes wearing a reliable, supportive, and comfortable pair of shoes. Your outing could be cut short if your footwear causes blistering and discomfort. Sun protection is also crucial. Wearing a hat and applying sunscreen will reduce the risk of sunburn and heat stroke, and sunglasses will protect your eyes from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. An important note to remember: UV rays can penetrate through cloud cover and cause sunburn, especially when UV levels are high during the summer. 

Yet another necessity is access to water. No matter the intensity of the activity, lengthy exposure to heat and/or dry conditions can cause dehydration and lead to other complications. Short-term dehydration symptoms such as headaches, dizziness and fatigue can be dangerous, especially while outdoors. Water fountains can be found on certain trails, although they are not available during the winter months. Additionally, a trail snack such as trail mix or granola bars, can be beneficial for reenergizing during any trail activity. 

Lastly, it’s important to mention that some trail activities require additional gear to keep individuals safe. For example, bikers have two essential pieces of equipment they need in good shape: their bike and helmet. Ensuring your bike chain isn’t rusty can prevent broken chains and potential accidents. In the event of an accident, bike helmets can reduce the severity of injuries. Using a bike helmet is considered the single most effective way to prevent head and brain injuries. No matter the speed you are going, biking without a helmet is incredibly dangerous. The Naperville Park District encourages all bike riders to wear a helmet and be aware while exploring and enjoying our trails.

Information included in this blog, along with area trail and biking maps, can be found at: www.napervilleparks.org/trails.