Originally Posted by
Digital_Cowboy
Given the description from the OP of the larger breaking into two groups and blocking the trail NOT just once but multiple times it sounds as if that larger group was looking for a fight.
No, it doesn't. People in groups are often oblivious to their surroundings. That is the most plausible explanation. People looking for fights are actually pretty rare.
Originally Posted by
Digital_Cowboy
As why else would they have blocked the trail in not just one location but multiple locations?
Not to point out the obvious, but because they weren't all in the same place together. That in no implies they were up to anything nefarious.
Originally Posted by
Digital_Cowboy
NO one has the right to block any public right of way. And that is what this larger group was doing, they were intently, at least that’s the impression I got, blocking a PUBLIC trail as if it were their own.
Yes, they were unintentionally causing a minor inconvenience. Unless there's actual statutes on the book regarding the trail rules in the park, there's no law against that. Even if there are statutes, the OP has no authority to do anything about it beyaond calling the authorities. He didn't mention doing that.
Originally Posted by
Digital_Cowboy
At least he asked them to move out of the way.
No, he didn't. He ordered them to get out of his way. Combined with his snide comment when he first passed them, it sounds like he was looking for some sort of confrontation, and got what he wanted.
Originally Posted by
Digital_Cowboy
Could he have asked in a politer manner, yes. Was he required to do so, no.
Could they have stayed out of his way to begin with? Yes. Were they required to? No.