The Town of Brome Lake adopted new by-laws at its council meeting in May governing the use of trails and spelling out rules for pedestrians, dog-walkers, cyclists, roller bladers and skateboarders. It is a positive initiative designed to help people enjoy the trails in a courteous and safe manner.

Key Rules for Trail Users

The new rules limit bike speeds to 20 km/h in certain high-use zones and require dog owners to use non-retractable leashes no longer than 1.85 m.

Pedestrians have the right of way on bridges, and cyclists should walk their bikes across bridges. The rules stipulate people should circulate on the right, as recommended by Vélo-Québec. Cyclists should warn others if they plan to pass, and pass on the left.

Essentially, the rules say people should be courteous; they aim to ensure that civility reigns on Brome Lake paths.

Different Approches in the Region

All very common sense. Except for one rule, that is. It turns out that there are two schools of thought on the issue of obliging all traffic to circulate on the right.

Trails in neighbouring communities that connect to Knowlton trails, like Bromont, Waterloo and the Estriade, require pedestrians to walk on the left – not the right.

In Bromont, for example, signs say that pedestrians should circulate on the left at all times so that cyclists can anticipate passing.

Confusing. The most recent recommendation from Vélo Québec is that pedestrians should be encouraged – but not obliged – to walk on the right. That is what Brome Lake has adopted, and it makes sense.

Another recommendation, however, mentions that the rules must take the regional environment into account. It would be nice if all multiuse trails had the same rules but, in the meantime, for Brome Lake, it is crucial to ensure that people know what the rules are here.

Clear and ample signage is essential and urgent, as is surveillance.

Now, happy trails. Let’s all enjoy Lac Brome’s 20 km of beautiful trails.