The first, layout marking, is what we use to define the trail when we are first establishing its direction. This type of marking is done with day-glow orange surveyor's tape. Only enough is used for the clerk of the course to follow to establish mileage and checkpoints. Only enough should be used to define the route so that club members will ride the same trail consistently to beat it out. Tape should be tied at least at eye level or higher when possible. Always use something substantial, i.e., mesquite, trees, cactus, etc. Common sense rules prevail about marking virgin trail or previously used trail. Obviously, new trail should be marked better in the beginning with tape. Old trails can be marked sparingly in places only to verify that it is the current trail that will be used. An arrow may also be used to show major turns on or off of used trail on to new areas. Remember that frequent riding and beating out of a new trail is just as effective in marking as lots of tape.

Enduro marking is our final marking that is usually done the weekend before the event and perhaps on the day before the enduro. Enduro marking must be done in such a way that a person who has never ridden the course before will be able to find his way, and at a higher rate of speed than we usually ride when we are marking. Arrows should be used as much as possible for Enduro marking, Remember, that tape only confirms the course. Arrows confirms and gives direction. Arrows should placed in such a manner to indicate the direction and degree of any upcoming turns or straight if the course is going straight for a time. AMA rules define turn markings - one arrow before a turn (warning), two arrows in the turn (actual place of turn) and one following the turn for confirmation, We should use discretion in following these rules, because we have very few "Major Turns". Our turns are veer and zigzag through cedars, creeks, or whatever. We usually try to put arrows everywhere possible to give the riders a sense of the upcoming trail. For example, an arrow at a 45 degree angle would indicate a 45 degree turn. Slightly tilted indicates a slight turn. 90 degrees to trail indicates sharp turn. Always place your arrows to give the rider as much help as possible. Riders may be riding at full speed so always place arrows far enough before the turns to allow him to adjust for the turn.

Danger marking is done with special designated posters. Danger arrows should be placed far enough before the potential danger points to give the rider adequate warning of impending danger, Use discretion with danger arrows. Mark areas that if unseen could cause a severe fall, such as ditches, drop-offs, hidden logs, etc.

Roads should be marked with appropriate signs. Placement of signs should be positioned well before the crossing in order to allow rider to take appropriate precautions. If the road appears to be heavily traveled, use several markers. Use back of an arrow and write "ROAD" with a red marking pen to use where trail crosses roadways.

Wrong way arrows should be used when the trail turns at an intersection and more than one path or route could be available. You should go past the point of the turn several feet and post two wrong way markers. Never, Never tie a piece of tape across a trail as a barrier to block the other trail. If the tape should be broken, riders will assume the trail goes in that direction which causes much irritation and dissent from riders. This results in protests and dangerous traffic conditions.

Trail marking sometimes requires that the marker gets off of his cycle and erect barriers or pull up pieces of brush to attach the signs to. If you are trying to erect a barrier to keep riders from going up an old trail or road that is not on the course, do a good job--make the barrier formidable. Remember to mark beyond the barrier with wrong way markers. Arrows and danger markers for the most part should be set out on the Saturday before the race.

A common question is "How many arrows will I need, and where do we get them?"

TSCEC sells a day-glow orange arrow that is very visible, small, and easy to carry when marking and that holds up well in adverse weather conditions. They are available from the TSCEC office and are very reasonable. You may also be able to get some through your local dealer, but it is sometimes hard to get as many as you need free. To properly mark a "desert" enduro course will take around 1000 arrows; even more if you are in a lot of trees, maybe 2000-2500. But why skimp? Order more than you need and you can use the leftovers next year.