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Recreational Services

Fuertes Observatory Fitness Trail

Location:

2 fitness stations

  • Across from McClintock Tennis Courts
  • Behind Fuertes Observatory

Outdoor Recreation Path & Equipment Use Policies:

1. General Use

  • The Recreation Path and outdoor fitness equipment are available for students, faculty, staff, and authorized guests during daylight hours.
  • Use of the path and equipment is at the user's own risk.
  • Users must follow all posted instructions and safety guidelines.
  • The area is intended for recreational fitness and physical activity.

2. Fitness Equipment

  • Inspect equipment before each use. Do not use equipment that appears damaged, loose, unstable, or otherwise unsafe.
  • Use equipment only for its intended purpose.
  • Follow posted instructions for each piece of equipment.
  • Users should select exercises appropriate to their fitness level and physical abilities.
  • Do not climb on top of equipment, hang from structures not designed for hanging, or perform stunts.
  • Users must be 16+ years old.
  • Allow other users reasonable access to equipment.

3. Pathway

  • Keep the recreation path clear for pedestrians, runners, and other authorized users.
  • Walkers and slower users should remain aware of faster-moving users.
  • Bicycles, scooters, and other wheeled devices must be operated at a safe speed and yield appropriately to pedestrians.
  • No motorized recreational vehicles are permitted.
  • Do not block the pathway with personal belongings, equipment, or groups.

4. Weather & Environmental Conditions

  • Equipment may become hot, cold, wet, icy, or slippery depending on weather conditions. Use appropriate caution.
  • The facility may be closed during severe weather, including lightning, high winds, heavy snow/ice, or other hazardous conditions.
  • Users should discontinue activity if weather conditions become unsafe.
  • Do not use equipment when surfaces are icy, excessively wet, or otherwise hazardous.

5. Appropriate Conduct

  • Respect other users and maintain a safe environment.
  • No harassment, fighting, or disruptive behavior.
  • No amplified music without authorization.
  • No alcohol, tobacco, cannabis, or illegal drugs in the recreation area.
  • Glass containers are prohibited.
  • Keep pets under control and comply with applicable campus rules.

6. Personal Property

  • Users are responsible for their personal belongings.
  • Do not leave bags, phones, water bottles, or other items where they could create a tripping hazard.
  • The University is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged personal property.

7. Food & Waste

  • Dispose of trash in designated receptacles.
  • Do not leave food or other materials that could attract wildlife.
  • Report spills, debris, or other hazards to Recreation staff.

8. Safety & Emergencies

  • Know your physical limitations and exercise accordingly.
  • Warm up appropriately before vigorous activity.
  • Stop exercising immediately if you experience chest pain, dizziness, unusual shortness of breath, or other concerning symptoms.
  • In an emergency, call 911 and provide the location of the incident.
  • Report damaged equipment or unsafe conditions to Recreation staff immediately in Helen Newman Hall.

9. Equipment Damage

  • Users must not modify, move, dismantle, or attempt to repair equipment.
  • Vandalism or intentional damage may result in loss of recreation privileges and/or disciplinary action.
  • Report damaged equipment to Cornell Recreation as soon as possible.

10. Right to Restrict Use

Cornell Recreation reserves the right to temporarily close the Recreation Path or individual pieces of equipment when necessary because of:

  • Weather
  • Maintenance or construction
  • Safety concerns
  • Equipment damage
  • Special events
  • Other operational needs