RFTA is proud to be a partner in Slow & Say Hello!, a new regional multimodal safety campaign aimed at making shared trails, streets, and pathways safer and more welcoming for everyone in the Roaring Fork Valley.
The campaign comes at a time when trails across the valley are seeing high use. RFTA owns and maintains the largest portion of the Rio Grande Trail, with the busiest section within RFTA jurisdiction (Carbondale) seeing an estimated 115,000 users each year. The upper Rio Grande Trail between the Aspen Post Office and Woody Creek averages about 83,000 users annually, according to Pitkin County Open Space and Trails.
With so many people sharing the same spaces, whether commuting by bike, walking with a dog, heading out on horseback, or driving near trailheads, small thoughtful actions can make an impact. Slow & Say Hello! is built around six simple principles that apply to every user, on every trail:
- Slow Down. We’re all just trying to get where we’re going and have a good time. Give others space and take it easy.
- Say Hello. Greet approaching users with eye contact and a friendly wave or “Hello!” It’s the easiest way to coordinate a safe pass.
- Show Up. Be safe and predictable. Make yourself visible and move in a way others can anticipate.
- Tune In. Take in what’s around you. Avoid wearing both earbuds (or any!) so you can hear what’s going on. Also, know the routes and rules before you go. Trail access, leash requirements, and seasonal closures vary by jurisdiction.
- Stay in Control. Keep yourself and your animals under control at all times, and stay on designated corridors. Sensitive habitats can be easily damaged.
- Leave No Trace. Take care of our shared spaces. Pick up all trash, pet waste, and food scraps – every time, no exceptions.
By putting ourselves in one another’s shoes, we can reduce conflicts, prevent accidents, and create a more welcoming experience for all. These principles are simple, but they reflect a shared commitment to the trails and streets we all enjoy.
Slow & Say Hello! is a cross-jurisdictionally supported campaign spanning the Roaring Fork Watershed. It would not exist without the commitment of our regional campaign sponsors, who share a vision of safer, friendlier shared pathways for everyone in our community. Learn more and find tips for every user group at slowandsayhello.co.
