The Murdock Canal used to be an open canal, built in the early 1900s. My family loved to walk along the canal on the dirt trail that followed it. In 2011 and 2012, the canal was enclosed and a paved trail was built. At first, many of us were disappointed that the canal would be enclosed – we loved to see the ducks swimming and walk along with the tranquil sounds of the water. But, the paved Murdock Canal Trail has not been a disappointment.

Not only is the trail a perfect way to enjoy the outdoors, get some exercise and see some beautiful views, but people often add to the experience. I often see messages of encouragement or happiness written on the trail pavement with sidewalk chalk. Just a few days ago, I passed a temporary message of “You can do it.” In fact, in 2020, a family whose home is adjacent to the trail in Pleasant Grove, wrote regular messages of hope with chalk on the side of their home. Another nearby homeowner plants wildflowers on their property right next to the trail for users to enjoy.

While the trail is enjoyable to use, it is not uncommon to see near-accidents. Every year when the weather becomes warmer, safety reminders are posted on cities’ websites and on social media. Here are a few reminders that are often posted.

Don’t forget to stop

Just the other day, I saw a cyclist continue riding into the street without even slowing down. A car was coming and its driver, luckily, slammed on the brakes at just the last second. This, unfortunately, is not a one-time occurrence. Cyclists, walkers and runners should remember that there are stop signs at each crossing and they must stop before entering the roadway. While it is polite for drivers of cars to stop and let them cross, that doesn’t always happen.

Animals

Isaac Hale, Daily Herald file photo

Dogs love to be walked on the canal and trail users appreciate when pet owners clean up after them. There are actually pet waste stations at several points along the canal. For the safety of everyone, dogs should be on leashes.

Traffic on the Trail

The flow of traffic is the same as on roads. Right is always right. Some users forget this and seem to be racing and passing, weaving in and out on all sides of the trail. It’s more enjoyable for everyone if they don’t always have to be watching for someone coming at them and the trail is wide enough to pass others safely. When passing, it’s courteous and safe to announce “left” or “right.”

Local police regularly patrol the trail, sometimes on motorcycles and sometimes on bikes. If an emergency were to happen, there are mile markers every quarter-mile so we can quickly identify exactly where we are to emergency personnel.

Have fun on the trail and stay safe.