My paved bike trail isn't so busy that I'm having to announce myself that often. Maybe 14 times on a good 2hr/30 mile ride. I use a bell way in advance of meeting anyone so they have time to realize I am not an Icecream Truck and indeed am a bicycle that's approaching rapidly and they should move.

And hey I guess I'm a bit in the odd camp anyway since I actually get positive vibes from seeing others on the path. Wether it's walkers, runners, rollerbladers or people on slower bikes... it's good to see people out getting a work out. I say "Hey" or "Howdy" to everyone or atleast give the one handed wave or a good nod.

Create some positive vibes for others and it can make the whole experience better as some of them will then say hi to others they meet on the trail. Announcing your presence with a bell is a lot better than having someone drift infront of you and causing a big accident or giving some poor old person a heart attack.