Backcountry Etiquette

Whatever your chosen form of winter recreation may be, there are a few principles to keep in mind while you’re out enjoying a winter backcountry excursion.

 Respect All Users 

Our public lands are a community resource shared by many different user groups.  Show courtesy and respect for all users and bring your sense of community to our shared lands. Many areas are “Shared Use” so if you’re in an area that’s open to motorized use be courteous and friendly to your motorized counterparts.  A smile and a wave, especially to a snowmobiler who is courteous and friendly to you, go a long way toward creating mutual respect among all backcountry users.  If conflict arises, diffuse the situation by leaving or moving on and make a note of the incident when you return.  If you do experience conflict on public lands, notify the corresponding public land management agency of the incident to help them assess land management needs.

 Share Parking  

Parking can be a major issue at trailheads, especially in popular areas.  Try to park thoughtfully to maximize available space for other vehicles and never block another vehicle.  Remember to lock your vehicle and don’t leave valuables.  If you experience parking problems at trailheads, notify the public land management agency to help them address user needs.

 Share Trails

Be respectful of other users on the trails and read all posted signs and notices.  If you are snowshoeing, do not walk on mechanically or human set ski tracks.  Snowshoe tracks adversely affect these types of ski tracks for later users.  Skiers should maintain a safe speed when coming downhill to avoid collisions with users coming up the trail, especially around blind corners.  When taking breaks, be sure not to block the trail for other users.  

 Leave No Trace  

The same principles apply to winter travel in the backcountry as to summer travel.  Pack it in, pack it out. Leave human waste well away from trails and waterways.

 No Trespassing  

Private land often borders our public lands, so be respectful of private property to insure continued access.  If you plan to travel off trail, know where boundaries for public lands are on maps to avoid illegal trespass.

 Minimize Noise Level  

Many people seek peace and quiet while out in the backcountry.  Try to keep the volume down when possible (on powder days it may be harder to do this).