The Jozi Trails may seem to appear like magic overnight. But the process of designing the trails and their corresponding signage is actually an intense process of planning and design (incorporating all users groups, assessing environmental impact and aligning to best international practices) before even building the trails and installing. The Jozi Trails signs are more than just a piece of infrastructure. When followed correctly, they give all user groups the freedom and space to fully enjoy the outdoors safely.

Although Jozi Trails can install signage, the most important factor is active participation and consideration from each and every trail user. The power is in your hands! Consider how you use the trails and how you interact with other trail users, so we can all enjoy these spaces for years to come. Need some guidance? Read more about our Trail Rules below.

FINDING YOUR WAY AROUND.

The Jozi Trails are built and maintained to be enjoyed by everyone—all ages, all abilities, and for multiple purposes. Knowing where you’re going, what to expect and that you’re on the right track is really important to your safety in the Spruit. So effective signage is a major priority for Jozi Trails. You’ll find nearly 100 Jozi Trails signs on all the new and existing trails. There are two main types of signage you’ll find on the trails:

• Jozi Trails Trail Totems / Signage to enjoy the Spruit safely please follow the guidelines outlined on the official Jozi Trails signage. These signs will tell you what user group the trail is designed for, give you directional information, warn you of anything ahead and give you some motivation, reminders and tips.
• Information Boards highlighting the rules and etiquette for using the Spruit; the relevant Johannesburg City bylaws; and key safety info and emergency contact details.

No-one likes being told what they can and can’t do (especially when they’re out to have fun) but, hey, how else can we be sure everyone plays fair and stays safe? There are many reasons people come to the Spruit and everyone is equally entitled to have a good time so we’ll be defining a set of guidelines to keep everybody safe and happy.

• Be Courteous & Share the Trail: Please help us make the trail a friendly environment for all trail users by not blocking the path. Walk and bike on the correct side of the trail to facilitate two-way traffic and using caution when passing other trail users. All trail users should respect other users on the facility regardless of their mode, speed or level of skill. Parents, please keep children from wandering into oncoming trail lanes to avoid accidents.
• Faster Moving User Yields to Slower: Faster moving trail users, should yield to slower moving users. When the trail is busy, please maintain a single file.
• Communicate Before Passing: Give a clear warning signal before passing. Signal may be produced by voice, bell, or horn. A trail user should politely call, “On your left” before passing to alert those in front of them. Be aware that other people may want to pass you. Listen (not to your iPod—to the world!)
• Keep Left, Pass Right: Pass others going in your direction on the right. Look ahead and back to make sure the lane is clear before you pull out. Pass with ample separation. Do not move back until safely past.
• Use Caution at Street Crossings & Intersections: Please slow and stop at all street crossings and use caution when proceeding into the intersection, even when using a marked crosswalk.
• Keep Pets on Short Leashes & Remove Pet Waste: Dogs are welcome on certain sections of Jozi Trails, but please keep them on a short leash in order to keep the trail safe for all users. Additionally, please pick-up after your pet.
• Respect Trail Environment: Do not disturb the wildlife or the many native plants and wildflowers that grow along Jozi Trails.
• Respect Private Property, Stay on Trail: Please stay on the designated and marked trail adjacent to private property at all times.
• Be Safe: Because paths may be unlighted and somewhat secluded, it’s good to consider only using them in daylight hours and/or traveling with a companion.
• Wear a Helmet: It’s always smart to wear them, especially children, when on any public path or trail.
• No Motorized Vehicles: Motorized vehicles are not allowed on the Spruit at any time. However, please note that in order to maintain the trail you may occasionally encounter maintenance vehicles and lawn mowers on and alongside the trail.