Warmer spring weather is here and with it comes the opportunity to experience the Carrollton GreenBelt. This paved, 18-mile trail connects neighborhoods, businesses, parks, the Tanner Medical Center/Carrollton campus and the University of West Georgia. It’s open to runners, walkers, cyclists and other non-motorized transportation, such as skateboards, rollerblades and scooters.
If you’re planning on biking along the popular path, take a few moments to review important bike etiquette to ensure a fun and safe trip for everyone.
- Ride right, pass left. Similar to driving, stay on the right side of the path unless passing others.
- Make a noise when approaching from behind. Let walkers, riders and runners ahead know you’re approaching with a quick (and friendly) holler or by using a bike bell. A simple “On your left!” is all it takes to let people know you’re preparing to pass.
- Keep it in cruise control. Enjoy the sights, sounds and community around you out on the GreenBelt by keeping your speed under control.
- Be vigilant in traffic. On the GreenBelt, traffic can include cars in nearby streets and other people enjoying the trail. When you approach an area with heavy foot or vehicle traffic, take caution and slow down. Be ready to stop at a moment’s notice, particularly around children.
- Treat biking like driving. Obey traffic lights and signals, and check your surroundings before moving out of your lane or stopping.
- Learn hand signals. If you’re unfamiliar with basic bike signals, take a few minutes to learn how you can safely tell others you need to turn right, left or stop.
Enjoying the Carrollton GreenBelt is easier than ever with Carrollton’s new bike-share program, which Tanner Health System and Get Healthy, Live Well is pleased to sponsor. The bike share provides 50 bikes across 10 trailheads. To use, simply drive to a bike-share location near you, follow the instructions on the sign and enjoy time on the bike. You can also join by visiting bike.zagster.com/carrollton.