MCNP enacts helmet rule

By GINA KINSLOW
Glasgow Daily Times

GLASGOW June 16, 2008 03:44 pm

— Bicyclists will now be required to wear helmets when biking through Mammoth Cave National Park, according to officials.
The national park issued a press release late last week stating that a new paragraph in the park’s 2008 Superintendent’s Compendium requires everyone riding a bicycle within the park to wear a helmet.
“We feel this is necessary for all bicyclists in the park,” said Superintendent Patrick Reed. “We try to keep our bikeways safe for travel, but there is an inherent risk of injury while riding a bike. Safety is our first priority of park visitors and our employees.”
According to state law minors are required to wear helmets when riding their bikes, said Wayne Elliott, the park’s chief ranger.
“We have extended that to all ages,” he said.
Bicycles can now be rented at the park.
“The Mammoth Cave Hotel is renting bicycles at the camp store,” said Vickie Carson, Mammoth Cave spokesperson. “Of course, the new bike trail goes past the camp store, and helmets come with the bike rentals.”
Bicycles are allowed on park roads, some administrative roads, and the Mammoth Cave RR Bike and Hike Trail.
On a temporary basis, Sal Hollow, Buffalo and a portion of Turnhole Bend trail are open to mountain bikes, the press release said.