The Trail System

The Trail System is a series of interconnected paths for bicyclists. The paths provide a network of trails extending from residential communities to key destinations throughout the Town including parks, schools and municipal buildings. There are a total of nine trails dispersed throughout the Town. Three trails run along picturesque canals on a north south alignment with a slight tilt to the east. Others provide east to west path. A cyclist can start at one corner of town and travel in any direction without leaving a designated trail. The trails are kept clear of foliage and debris so cyclists feel safe at all times.

The Santan Vista Trail intersects with the Riparian Preserve where cyclists can convert over to a natural surface path. Cyclists can catch a view of some of the rare species of birds in the southwest, or relax to sounds of a babbling brook as the Preserve's water recycles its way through the Preserve.

The Heritage Trail intersects with Freestone Park our largest district park. Freestone Park is the home to many outdoor recreational opportunities for bicyclists, such as fishing, volleyball, batting cages, a train, a skate park, softball fields, and an outdoor amphitheater. The park is also home to Freestone Recreation Center where the cyclists can safely lock up their bike and go rock climbing, play racquetball, or many other activities.

The Santan Freeway Trail is an unbelievably beautiful trail running along the Santan Freeway. The trail is landscaped, has rest areas and offers riders a leisurely, safe trail to access parks, neighborhoods, and retail areas in Town.

Crossing roads while cycling can be dangerous. The Town has tried to make the crossing of roads from trails just a bit safer. The trail system also includes:

• • mid-block signalized trail crossings on many arterial roads
• • access to on-road bike lanes
• • safe and convenient crossing of streets away from busy intersections

Need a Map?

We will gladly send you a free hard copy of the Gilbert Bicycle & Canal Trails Map by mail or on-line in our Parks - Trail System Maps web page. Copies of the Regional Bike Ways Map are also available for free. To request either map, fill out the Bicycle Map Request Form. Or you may request a copy by calling (480) 503-6756. Please indicate whether you would like both maps or just one map.

Guidelines

The Bicycle Element of the Gilbert Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan contains the objectives, planning strategies, and implementation guidelines for the bicycle system and facilities.

Safety Gear

It is important to wear safety gear when you ride your bicycle. Wearing a helmet can reduce head injury by 85%.

• • Wear reflective and lightly colored clothing
• • When riding your bike at night, use a bright white headlight & red reflector
• • Whether riding during the day or at night remember to bring plenty of water.

Ride with Traffic

Obey all traffic laws and signals. Plan your route in order to avoid detours, unsafe decisions or surprises. Ride in a straight line, giving sufficient space between you and parked cars, other riders, or pedestrians. When riding on trails, maintain a speed appropriate for the trail conditions.

• • Use hand signals to let motorists and pedestrians know what you intend to do. Signaling is not only a law; it is a courtesy and can protect you from the actions of others. Use eye contact to confirm you are seen and establish your presence on the road or trail.
• • Use appropriate lane: Avoid being in a left or right turn only lane when you plan to go straight. Move into the proper lane early on. If traffic is moving slowly, or the lane is narrow, it may be best to take the whole lane. Remember to be courteous and aware when sharing the road.

Two Ways to Turn Left

Many accidents occur at intersections; proceed with care. The Town has installed mid-block signalized trail crossings at many locations to allow for safer crossing of streets. Consider using a mid-block crossing and avoid the busier intersection traffic.

• 1) signal, yield to traffic, move into the left lane and turn left
• 2) ride straight across to the far side of the crosswalk, then walk your bike across.

Maintain Your Bike

It is important that you and your bike are a proper fit. You should be able to sit on the seat and have one foot touching the ground.

• • Make sure the brakes, gears and steering are well maintained.
• • Keep a toolkit, hand pump & patch kit for roadside emergencies.
• • To protect your bike, secure it with a U-lock, or cable lock.
• • Register your bike with the Gilbert Police Department.

Other Informative Websites

• · Valley Metro Bike Month
• · ADOT Bicycle and Pedestrian Program
• · Pedestrian and Bicycle Information Center
• · League of American Bicyclists
• · National Center For Bicycling and Walking
• · Valley Metro Rideshare