Class A Trails and Class VI Roads are the same, right?
We're back with another installment of Mythbusters, ENH Style!
The term "trail" often gets used for our Class VI roads. But this is, in fact, incorrect.
Class A trails (as designated by towns) are NOT Class VI roads. They are, in fact, covered by RSA 231-1:1 which notes that they are "trails" and not public roadways. This means that the types of vehicles that are allowed on Class VI roads and Class A (or B) trails are not the same!
General rules for Class A trails are covered by Public Use Trail Restrictions RSA 231-A:4. Per this RSA, "Such restrictions may include, but are not limited to, prohibition of motor vehicles, prohibition of wheeled vehicles, prohibition of off highway recreational vehicles, or restriction to specified modes of travel such as horse, bicycle, or foot. Such restrictions, if posted using legible signs at entrances to the trail from public highways, or at any property boundaries where new or different restrictions become applicable, shall be enforceable in the same manner as traffic violations as set forth in RSA 265. Any person violating such restrictions shall be guilty of a violation."
There may be exemptions for abutting landowners, but you should always confirm with the town if you feel this may apply to you. The towns (or other landowners) do have freedom to create lists of approved and unapproved uses which is generally posted clearly on signs.
Bottom line is your fantastic licensed, registered, and insured whatever is NOT LIKELY allowed on those trails - although some may allow it. It is best practice to either research what it says on the sign (instead of posting to social media), contact the town directly, or simply choose another route until you have confirmed.
Simply put, anyone mis-using Class A or B trails is subject to enforcement as a traffic violation as set forth in RSA 265.
See the RSA for additional information:
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