• Night Riding

    As days get shorter and weekday riding opportunities fade some like to head to the trails after sunset. Below are the current policies of local parks regarding night riding and after dark trail closures.

    • Sunderbruch Park: Night riding is allowed at all hours. Park in the lot outside the main gates to avoid getting locked in!
    • Stephens Park: Night riding is allowed. Park is open until 11pm. Be off the trails before 11pm.
    • Illiniwek: RICFPD has changed their trail closure policies at Illiniwek. Trails will remain open year round until 10pm starting 1/1/2018. Be off the trails before 10pm.
    • Dorrance Park: RICFPD has changed their trail closure policies at Dorrance. Trails will remain open year round until 10pm starting 1/1/2018. Be off the trails before 10pm.
    • Westbrook Park: Night rides are not allowed unless by special permit. Trails open dawn to dusk.
    • Scott County Park: Night riding is not allowed. Possible ticket/fine if caught. Trails open sunrise to sunset.
    • Sylvan Island: Night riding not allowed. Trails open from 6 am to sunset.
    • Geneseo Prairie Park: Unknown...

  • Local Trail Conditions

    Report Trail Issue

    Sylvan Island

    Open

    Sunderbruch

    Damp next 24hr

    Scott County Park

    Closed

    Illiniwek

    Closed

    Westbrook

    Closed

    Stephens

    Closed

    Prairie Park

    Closed

    Dorrance

    Closed

    Dog Park

    Closed

    Scott Community College

    Closed

  • MTB Trail Etiquette

    • Ride Open Trails: Respect trail and road closures — ask a land manager for clarification if you are uncertain about the status of a trail. Do not trespass on private land. Obtain permits or other authorization as required. Be aware that bicycles are not permitted in areas protected as state or federal Wilderness.

    • Leave No Trace: Be sensitive to the dirt beneath you. Wet and muddy trails are more vulnerable to damage than dry ones. When the trail is soft, consider other riding options. This also means staying on existing trails and not creating new ones. Don't cut switchbacks. Be sure to pack out at least as much as you pack in.

    • Control Your Bicycle: Inattention for even a moment could put yourself and others at risk. Obey all bicycle speed regulations and recommendations, and ride within your limits.

    • Yield Appropriately: Do your utmost to let your fellow trail users know you're coming — a friendly greeting or bell ring are good methods. Try to anticipate other trail users as you ride around corners. Bicyclists should yield to other non-motorized trail users, unless the trail is clearly signed for bike-only travel. Bicyclists traveling downhill should yield to ones headed uphill, unless the trail is clearly signed for one-way or downhill-only traffic. In general, strive to make each pass a safe and courteous one.

    • Never Scare Animals: Animals are easily startled by an unannounced approach, a sudden movement or a loud noise. Give animals enough room and time to adjust to you. When passing horses, use special care and follow directions from the horseback riders (ask if uncertain). Running cattle and disturbing wildlife are serious offenses.

    • Plan Ahead: Know your equipment, your ability and the area in which you are riding and prepare accordingly. Strive to be self-sufficient: keep your equipment in good repair and carry necessary supplies for changes in weather or other conditions. Always wear a helmet and appropriate safety gear.