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Outdoor Safety & Ethics
As a visitor you will find many opportunities to enjoy and explore nature's creations. Our Forest offers a variety of activities for everyone including bicycling, hunting, fishing, picnicking, camping, hiking, rock climbing, and cross-country skiing, just to name a few.
However, because of the large territories that are covered by forest, many unforeseen dangers present unpredictable challenges for our visitors to have a safe visit. The following sections will allow you to examine some of our safety challenges and additional links that will offer extended exploration of the topics.
Features
Responsible Recreation
National forests and grasslands are ours to enjoy now. We want them to be enjoyed for future generations as well. So is it up to all of us to care of these natural resources. This means we can all enjoy the recreational activities of our choosing, but do it responsibly.
Driving Safely on Forest Roads
Driving through the forest is a bit different than traveling down a six-lane freeway through a big city. Please keep the following in mind while driving through the woods.
Spotlights
Be Bear Aware
Being outdoors means being with wildlife. Many people never encounter a bear. But if you do, here's some simple advice.
General Forest Rules
Planning a trip to Monongahela National Forest? Here is what you need to know to keep yourself safe and help us protect this special public land.
If You Get Lost
The best tool needed for survival in the event you get lost outdoors is your skill of advanced planning. Dial 911 for all emergencies while on the forest.
Electronic Bicycle Use
As use trends change with time and new technologies, the way we manage lands to ensure their long-term health and resilience must change as well.
Alerts & Warnings
- Dolly Sods gates on Forest Roads FR75 and FR19 closed today
- Stay Alert and Drive Safely
- Forest Road 209 (through Stonecoal Camping Area) Closed in Randolph County
- Cranberry Road Closed for Bridge Construction Projects
- Forest Road 296 closed as of October 7th, 2024
- Cranberry Road (FR 76) projects are complete. Coe Road (FR 81) project is next.
- New Aquatic Ecological Unit Inventory Data Available
- Weather Safety Tips