Check out the IMBA or International Mountain Biking Association when you have a chance at IMBA.com
They are a vast resource for the sport of Mountain biking and trail building in all areas of the world.
The International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA) was founded in 1988 by a group of California mountain bike clubs concerned about the closure of trails to cyclists. These pioneering clubs believed that mountain biker-education programs and innovative trail management solutions should be developed and promoted. While this first wave of threatened trail access was concentrated in California, IMBA's pioneers saw that crowded trails and trail-user conflict were fast becoming worldwide recreation issues. This is why they chose "International Mountain Bicycling Association" as the organization's name.
IMBA's mission has always been to protect, create, and enhance quality trail experiences for mountain bikers worldwide. In addition, we actively promote responsible mountain biking, support volunteer trailwork, assist land managers with trail management issues, and improve relations among trail user groups.
IMBA has members in all 50 United States and 40 other countries. IMBA members annually contribute more than one million hours to trailwork projects on public land. To date, these volunteers have created more than 5,000 (8,000 km) miles of new trails worldwide.
IMBA continues to bring out the best in mountain biking through education, trail construction, volunteer support, management advice, cash and grants for trail improvement, and worldwide leadership. IMBA gives mountain bikers a national and international voice that is heard and respected by federal land managers, environmental groups, the mainstream media, and other trail users. IMBA works closely with the U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, National Park Service, and Parks Canada and the U.K. Forestry Commission.
The IMBA also has their 'rules of the trails' which all mountain bikers should strive to follow when riding.
Plan Ahead
Know your equipment, your ability, and the area in which you are riding and prepare accordingly. Be self-sufficient at all times. Wear a helmet, keep your bike in good condition, and carry necessary supplies for changes in weather or other conditions. A well executed trip is a satisfaction to you and not a burden or offense to others.
Leave No Trace
Be sensitive to the earth beneath you. Even on open trails you should not ride under conditions where you will leave evidence of your passing, such as on certain soils shortly after a rain or thaw. Observe th e different types of soil and trail construction. Practice low impact cycling. Ride don't slide. Stay on the trail and don't create new trails. Don't cut around obstacles; carry over them. Don't ride through streams. Be sure to pack out at least as much as you pack in.
Always Yield Trail
Make your approach known well in advance. A friendly greeting (or bell) is considerate and works well; don't startle others. Show your respect when passing others by slowing to a walk or even stopping. Anticipate that other trail users may be around the corner or in blind spots.
Never Spook Animals
All animals are startled by an unannounced approach, a sudden movement, or a loud noise. This con be dangerous for you, for others, and for the animals. Give animals extra room and time to adjust to you. In passing, use care and follow the directions of horseback riders (ask if uncertain). Running cattle and disturbing wild animals is a serious offense. Leave gates as you found them or as marked.
Control Your Bicycle
Inattention for even a second con cause problems. Obey all speed laws.
Ride Open Trails Only
Respect trail and road closures (ask if not sure), avoid all possible trespass on private land, obtain permits and authorization as may be required.