Safety and Outdoor Ethics

Weather

It is variable and changes rapidly, sometimes unexpectedly. Be prepared for anything.

Hazard Trees

Falling trees and branches are an ever-present hazard when traveling or camping in a forest. A hazard tree is one that has a structural defect that makes it likely to fail in whole or in part.

• Be aware of your surroundings. Trees can fall without warning. Look up for trees with broken limbs or tops. Do not stand or camp under leaning or dead trees.
• Avoid dense patches of dead trees. Limbs and damaged trees may fall at any time. Absence of needles, bark or limbs may also indicate structural defects. The possibility of rot is indicated by broken tops, basal scars, cat faces, numerous down limbs, ants or an abundance of woodpecker holes.
• Park close to a main road rather than on a spur or one-way section when driving in remote areas of the forest to avoid being trapped if a tree falls across the road.
• Camp in open spaces. Place tents and camp sites in areas where they will not be hit if a tree falls.
• Report hazardous trees. Contact authorities with location and information if you find a tree that presents a likely hazard, such as near a trail or camp site.

High Water Safety Tips

• Watch children and pets at all times.
• Avoid crossing streams and rivers.
• Avoid unstable stream banks.
• Avoid walking on iced covered lakes and streams.

Flash Flooding

Weather experts say the best defense is to be weather-ready before a storm hits.

As with all remote and rural locations in the U.S., warnings from city sirens don’t exist out in nature. Remember to check the National Weather Service forecast before you leave home, and be alert for changing weather conditions while visiting the forest. Devices like a weather radio, a terrestrial radio and a smart-phone application can help visitors stay tuned-in during their outdoor activities. It’s important for people to be weather-ready and alert. Safety isn't seasonal.

Flood awareness can be especially critical for campers. A flash flood can happen at a moment's notice, any time of the day and any time of the year. It is nearly impossible to see the water depths and the force of the current when a flash flood happens at night.

Many people enjoy sleeping under the stars in developed campgrounds and dispersed areas in the national forests. Favorite campsites are often near streams and rivers, people don't expect a sudden rush of water toward their tent or camper. Always be alert for sudden rain storms, water flowing into low areas or the sound of rushing water.

Follow these safety tips to avoid flash floods:

• Safety is your own responsibility whenever you head outdoors.
• Families should discuss how they would alert each other and get to a safe zone if rushing or rising water, or any other emergency, interrupts their trip.
• When visiting a forest, be alert for heavy rains and sudden changes in weather.
• Recreating or camping near a stream or river can be a risk if there are thunderstorms in the area.
• Flash floods can occur with little or no warning.
• When a NOAA flash flood warning is issued for your area, or the moment you realize that water is rising around you, act quickly.
• In remote areas of the forest, use of cell phones and digital data services may be limited.

Terrain

Ranges from level valleys to rocky, steep slopes. Sturdy, comfortable footwear is important.

Water

The water in the high country is not suitable for drinking. However, most sources can be purified. Several methods are suggested, however, none can guarantee removal of all the harmful agents that may be present: Iodine tablets - boiling for 10 minutes - "water filter" type purifiers. No one wants to become a giardia host.

If you are lost

If You Get Lost ... Don't Panic!

• Stay calm if you get lost. Panic is your greatest enemy. Your best bet is simply to stay where you are, especially if it is nightfall, if you are injured, or if you are near exhaustion. While waiting for assistance, keep yourself hydrated and nourished, adapt to weather conditions by keeping yourself warm or cool.
• Try to remember how you got to your present location.  Pay close attention to your surroundings and land-marks, and relate this to your location on a map.
• Trust your map and compass, and do not walk aimlessly. If you are on a trail, don’t leave it. GPS users: find your latitude and longitude and carry spare batteries.
• Most trails are marked with signs (where intersections meet) and diamond blazes or markers. However, signs are sometimes vandalized or stolen.
• Call for help if you can! Remember, before you leave plan your trip, tell someone your plans, and carry a fully charged cell phone. Cell phone coverage in remote areas may be limited.

If You Are Sick

Hypothermia

This is a condition ultimately causing a lowering of the internal body temperature. If not treated at the first symptoms, it can be a killer.
Cause: wind, wetness, cold, exhaustion
Symptoms: uncontrollable shivering, clumsiness, incoherent, lack of coordination.
Treatment: Provide shelter (out of wind and rain); provide warmth (build a fire, put on warm, dry clothes, drink warm liquids and/or place the victim in a sleeping bag with someone else who is warm).
Remember: The important factor in hypothermia is to keep the victim warm and add warmth to his/her system.
Prevention: This can be prevented by: wearing proper clothing (use layers), stopping before you are exhausted, wearing rain gear when it is raining (staying dry), knowing your own limitations.

Mountain Sickness

This condition is caused by a lack of oxygen at high altitude, resulting in a general "sick-all-over" feeling.
Cause: dehydration, lack of oxygen, exertion
Symptoms: Nausea, dizziness, headache, loss of appetite
Treatment: Stop and rest, go slower, drink plenty of water (make sure you also get enough sodium, either in you food or salt tablets, eat high energy foods).
If this does not help after a period of time, the only other option is to return to a lower elevation where there is more oxygen.

Heat Exhaustion

Condition brought on by excessive exercise and loss of body fluids in hot, sunny weather.
Cause: dehydration, excessive heat, exertion
Symptoms: headache, dizziness, "flushed" feeling, nausea
Treatment: Get out of the sun, rest, drink plenty of fluids, replenish lost sodium (food or salt tablets). Try to lower body temperature. This is most frequent when hiking at lower elevations (5,000-9,000 feet).

Before you build your campfire, consider the following:

1. Build campfires away from overhanging branches, steep slopes, rotten stumps, logs, dry grass, and leaves. Pile any extra wood away from the fire.
2. Keep plenty of water handy and have a shovel for throwing dirt on the fire if it gets out of control.
3. Start with dry twigs and small sticks. Add larger sticks as the fire builds up. Put the largest pieces of wood on last, pointing them toward the center of the fire, and gradually push them into the flames.
4. Keep the campfires small. A good bed of coals or a small fire surrounded by rocks gives plenty of heat. Scrape away litter, duff, and any burnable material within a 10-foot diameter circle. This will keep a small campfire from spreading.
5. Be sure your match is out. Hold it until it is cold. Break it so that you can feel the charred portion before discarding it. Make sure it is out cold. Conserve matches--carry a candle as a fire starter.
6. Never leave a campfire unattended. Even a small breeze could quickly cause the fire to spread.
7. Drown the fire with water. Make sure all embers, coals and sticks are wet. Move rocks--there may be burning embers underneath.
8. Stir the remains, add more water, and stir again. Be sure all burned material has been extinguished and cooled. If you do not have water, use dirt. Mix enough soil or sand with the embers. Continue adding and stirring until all material is cooled.
9. Feel all materials with your bare hand. Make sure that no roots are burning. Do not bury coals--they can smolder and break out.

Charcoal Briquettes

After using the burning charcoal briquettes, "dunk 'em!" Don't sprinkle. Soak the coals with lots of water; stir them and soak again. Be sure they are out--cold! Carefully feel the coals with your bare hands to be sure.

Lanterns, Stoves and Heaters

Cool all lanterns, stoves, and heaters before refueling. Place them on the ground in a cleared area and fill them. If fuel spills, move the appliance to a new clearing before lighting it. Recap and store flammable liquid containers in a safe place. Never light lanterns and stoves inside a tent, trailer or camper. If you use a lantern or stove inside a tent or trailer, be sure to have adequate ventilation. Always read and follow instructions provided by the manufacturer.

Spark Arresters

All types of equipment and vehicles are required to have spark arresters. Chainsaws, portable generators, off-road vehicles and trail bikes, to name a few-- require spark arresters if used in or near grass, brush or a wooded area. To make sure the spark arrester is functioning properly, check with the dealer or contact your local wildland fire service office.

Smoking

When smoking is permitted outdoors, safe practices require at least a 3-foot clearing around the smoker. Grind out your cigarette, cigar or pipe tobacco in the dirt. Never grind it on a stump or log. It is unsafe to smoke while walking or riding a horse or trail bike. Use your ashtray while in your vehicle.

Hiking is a great way to discover the Wasatch-Cache National Forest – for visit of almost any age and ability level. With more than 1,700 miles of trails, the Forest has one to fit just about everybody. Some trails are easy and fun for families with small children; some paths make great half-day hikes. Other trails can lead to a backpacking adventure for a night or much longer. Wilderness trails are the most primitive and best suited for experienced hikers who enjoy strenuous activities.

Please remember that many of these trails are multiple-use. Non-motorized trails are limited to hikers and horses, with some trails open to mountain bikes. A few trails are open to both motorized and non-motorized users. Wilderness trails are closed to all types of motor vehicles and mechanical transport, including bicycles, wagons and carts. Guided hikes may also be available at some locations. Practicing trail etiquette will ensure that everyone on the trail has an enjoyable experience.

Most trails have some type of regulation, fee or seasonal restriction, so it's wise to find out more about the specific trail you wish to explore before showing up at the trailhead. Parking and comfort stations exist at most trailhead locations. Stop by the District Visitor Center for maps and specific information before heading out or click on one of the District’s below for more information.

Hiking Safety Tips

• Don't hike alone. Let others know your travel plans.
• Plan your trip.
• Carry plenty of food and water.
• Protect yourself from the sun.
• Wear appropriate footwear and clothing.
• Stay on designated trails.
• Watch your footing if traveling near cliffs and watch for slippery areas.
• Carry a small first aid kit, flashlight, compass, and matches.
• Be prepared for and aware of rapidly changing weather conditions.
• Avoid bare ridge tops, exposed places, lone trees, streams, and rocks during lightning storms.
• Cell phone coverage will vary.

Hunting has been practiced for generations on Forest Service land. However, it's more than a traditional pastime. Hunting also has an ecological benefit as it's one of many ways in which wildlife managers are able to keep wildlife populations in balance with the animal's habitat, human development and the natality and mortality of the animals.

The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources manages hunting within the state. For information on seasons, licenses and other details, check their website or call their local hotline at 801-596-8660 or toll-free hotline at 1-877-592-5169.

More information on this activity.

Hunting Safety Tips

National forests are a refuge for wild animals of all kinds, which makes recreational activities, for example hunting and wildlife viewing possible. Hunting is a seasonal activity. State regulations for seasons, dates and licensing apply on national forest land.

• Check weather reports before visiting the forest.
• Tell someone where you will be hunting and when you will return.
• Be familiar with the area you want to hunt.
• Dress properly and be prepared for the worst possible weather conditions and changing weather.
• If accompanied by a dog, the dog should wear hunter orange or a very visible color on a vest, leash, coat or bandana.
• Utilize layering techniques to wick away moisture while retaining body warmth. Always bring rain gear.
• Clearly identify your target before shooting. Prevent unfortunate accidents or fatalities.
• Be alert when hunting near developed areas and trails. Other recreationists are in the forest as well.
• If hunting in bear country, follow these tips at the Be Bear Aware website.

There are hundreds of miles of trails beckoning both the novice and hard-core mountain biking enthusiast. Most hiking trails and roads are open to mountain bikes. However, please remember that bikes are NOT allowed in Wilderness areas.

Expect to share the forest with others, including hikers, horseback riders, off-highway vehicle riders, timber cutters, hunters, and bird watchers, so learn to share the trail, Move off the trail for less mobile users. Always yield trail. Practice Trail Safety and Leave No Trace.

Stay on national forest land or public roads. Do not trespass on private land. It is your responsibility to be sure you are on national forest land. Avoid riding during the hunting seasons, if possible. If you do ride during hunting season, consider wearing blaze orange. If you see a hunter, alert him or her of your approach.

What to Expect

You may ride your bike on any open forest road or trail unless it is specifically closed to mountain bike use. Trails in the Wilderness Areas are always closed to mountain biking. Mountain bikes and other similar mechanical devices are prohibited by law in congressionally designated Wilderness Areas.

Even so, many diverse miles of roads and trails are open to mountain biking. Visitors may use any of these routes year round, as conditions on the ground allow. There are no permits, fees, or registration required for individuals and small groups.

Expect to share the forest with others, including hikers, horseback riders, off-highway vehicle riders, timber cutters, hunters, and bird watchers, so learn to share the trail, practice Trail Safety and Leave No Trace.

Expect to carry and walk your bike for considerable distances on most of the trails on the national forests. Most trails were constructed for hiking, and are not maintained for continuous mountain bike riding. Trails are narrow and sometimes steep and are always pretty rough due to rock.

Stay on national forest land or public roads. Do not trespass on private land. It is your responsibility to be sure you are on national forest land. Avoid riding during the hunting seasons, if possible. If you do ride during hunting season, consider wearing blaze orange. If you see a hunter, alert him or her of your approach.

Riding Opportunities

Most hiking trails and roads are open to mountain bikes. However, many trails were not designed for biking. Please remember, biking is  always prohibited in Wilderness Areas. There are a number of privately authored guides that describe national forest trails, and you can obtain information from others who use the trails. While information from private sources is not necessarily endorsed by the Forest Service, we recognize that riders often offer valuable insight and perspectives on trail opportunities and difficulty levels.

Biking Safety Tips

• Wear a helmet.
• Don't bike alone. Let others know your travel plans.
• Plan your trip.
• Carry plenty of food and water.
• Protect yourself from the sun.
• Stay on authorized trails.
• Carry a small first aid kit, flashlight, compass, matches, and tire repair kit.
• Ride to your ability.
• If riding at night, have headlamps and reflectors.
• Be prepared for and aware of rapidly changing weather conditions.
• Avoid bare ridge tops, exposed places, lone trees, streams, and rocks during lightning storms.
• Cell phone coverage will vary.

The water in the high country is not suitable for drinking. However, most sources can be purified. Several methods are suggested, however, none can guarantee removal of all the harmful agents that may be present: Iodine tablets - boiling for 10 minutes - "water filter" type purifiers. No one wants to become a giardia host.

Hypothermia

This is a condition ultimately causing a lowering of the internal body temperature. If not treated at the first symptoms, it can be a killer.

Cause: wind, wetness, cold, exhaustion
Symptoms: uncontrollable shivering, clumsiness, incoherent, lack of coordination.
Treatment: Provide shelter (out of wind and rain); provide warmth (build a fire, put on warm, dry clothes, drink warm liquids and/or place the victim in a sleeping bag with someone else who is warm).
Remember: The important factor in hypothermia is to keep the victim warm and add warmth to his/her system.
Prevention: This can be prevented by: wearing proper clothing (use layers), stopping before you are exhausted, wearing rain gear when it is raining (staying dry), knowing your own limitations.

High Water Safety Tips

• Watch children and pets at all times.
• Avoid crossing streams and rivers.
• Avoid unstable stream banks.
• Avoid walking on iced covered lakes and streams.

Flash Flooding

Weather experts say the best defense is to be weather-ready before a storm hits.

As with all remote and rural locations in the U.S., warnings from city sirens don’t exist out in nature. Remember to check the National Weather Service forecast before you leave home, and be alert for changing weather conditions while visiting the forest. Devices like a weather radio, a terrestrial radio and a smart-phone application can help visitors stay tuned-in during their outdoor activities. It’s important for people to be weather-ready and alert. Safety isn't seasonal.

Flood awareness can be especially critical for campers. A flash flood can happen at a moment's notice, any time of the day and any time of the year. It is nearly impossible to see the water depths and the force of the current when a flash flood happens at night.

Many people enjoy sleeping under the stars in developed campgrounds and dispersed areas in the national forests. Favorite campsites are often near streams and rivers, people don't expect a sudden rush of water toward their tent or camper. Always be alert for sudden rain storms, water flowing into low areas or the sound of rushing water.

Follow these safety tips to avoid flash floods:

• Safety is your own responsibility whenever you head outdoors.
• Families should discuss how they would alert each other and get to a safe zone if rushing or rising water, or any other emergency, interrupts their trip.
• When visiting a forest, be alert for heavy rains and sudden changes in weather.
• Recreating or camping near a stream or river can be a risk if there are thunderstorms in the area.
• Flash floods can occur with little or no warning.
• When a NOAA flash flood warning is issued for your area, or the moment you realize that water is rising around you, act quickly.
• In remote areas of the forest, use of cell phones and digital data services may be limited.

Contrary to its name, the black bear is not always black; the species varies in color from reddish to light brown to black.  

Black bears are omnivores with diets consisting of fruits, insects, grubs, some small vertebrates, and carrion. They breed in June or July, and young are born in January or February; average litter size is two. Young stay with their mother until the fall of their second year. Black bears are nocturnal and are dormant during the winter.

Safety in black bear country 

Rattlesnakes are most active during spring and fall.  Evening, night, or morning hours are favored activity periods; mid-day is generally shunned.  These snakes retreat underground to avoid temperature extremes.  Like other reptiles, rattlesnakes are “cold-blooded” relying essentially on outside heat sources rather than an internal metabolism to maintain their body temperature.  They typically function most effectively at temperatures between about 70 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit.  Rattlesnake Saftey Tips, Utah Division of Wildlife Resources.


Mountain lions are active year round and their main food sources are deer, rabbits and other small mammals.  Mountain lions have extremely large territories. They sometimes roam more than 20 miles a day in search of new food sources or mates.  This is especially true after young mountain lions leave their mother at about a year and a half old. The chances of seeing a mountain lion are highly unlikely, but people still need to be aware that lions live among us.
Stay Save In Mountain Lion Country, Utah Division of Wildlife Resources 

An number of regulations are in place to insure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. Snowmobilers and other motorized over-snow vehicle users, such as snow cats and truck outfitted with tracks, must adhere to the rules and guidelines listed below.

• Riding is allowed in designated areas only, as outlined in the Forest's Winter Recreation Travel Maps.
• Riding is closed in areas not expressly designated as open to snowmobiles. These closures protect important wildlife areas, Wilderness Areas, or provide separation for different winter recreation uses. Reference your maps often to insure you stay well within designated snowmobiling areas.
• Most roads on the Forest are not maintained in the winter and are closed to motorized wheeled vehicles usually beginning around November each year.
• Snowmobiles can travel in designated areas only after enough snow accumulates to provide cover and protection for ground vegetation.
• Per Utah law, children under 8 years may not operate a snowmobile. Youth from 8 - 15 must possess a Utah safety certificate to operate a snowmobile. To sign up for a class call 1-800-OHV-RIDE.
• Utah Law requires all youth under 18 riding on a snowmobile to wear a DOT approved helmet
• Snowmobiles in Utah must be registered with the State. Out-of-state vehicles must obtain Nonresident Snowmobile Permit before going out on the snow. Go to  for detailed information.
• Private property is off-limits to the general public with out permission of the land owner

Trail Etiquette

With 1.8 million residents living within easy reach of the Wasatch-Cache, it's a popular place year-round. During the winter, many different types of winter sport enthusiasts, such as snowmobilers, skiers, snowshoers, and dog sledders, share National Forest lands. For the safety and enjoyment of everyone, please travel with care and be considerate of others. A healthy dose of common courtesy by all visitors will guarantee a rewarding trip for everyone. At a minimum, be sure to slow down and pass with care. Use extra caution when coming around blind corners. And never park a snowmobile in the trail, where it might pose a safety hazard.

Trail Difficulty

Groomed Trails: Suited for snowmobilers of all abilities. These trails follow major roadways and generally have little grade and are relatively wide and straight. They are usually well-traveled and easy to follow. For grooming reports call 1-800-OHV- RIDE.

Ungroomed Trails: Much more challenging and should only be attempted by experienced riders with snowmobiles designed for deep, unpacked snow. These trails follow primitive roads and have longer, steeper slopes and may be narrow and windy. Since they are not marked and well-traveled, route finding skills are essential.

Hazards: Know Before You Go

Winter is a beautiful but unforgiving season. As a visitor on National Forest lands, you have significant responsibility for your personal safety. Avalanches are a particularly grave danger. Avalanche victims are almost exclusively backcountry recreationists ---snowmobilers, climbers, snowboarders, snowshoers, skiers and hikers. Nationwide, Snowmobilers lead the list with twice the number of fatalities as any other activity. The Forest Service's Avalanche Center provides 24/7 forecasting of avalanche conditions and offers classes throughout the winter season. Other possible hazards include:

• changing weather conditions
• caves and sinkholes
• overlooks
• falling trees or limbs
• high or rushing water (spring)
• wild animals
• decaying structures, old mines
• changing roads and trail conditions
• becoming lost
• thin ice

Safety Tips

Awareness and preparation are essential to memorable outings. Listed below are a few basic precautions necessary while riding out on the Forest.

• Check the avalanche advisory before you head out.
• Carry and practice with avalanche safety equipment; shovel, probe and beacon if riding in avalanche terrain.
• Only expose one person at a time to avalanche danger.
• Let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return. Never go out alone.
• Dress for changing weather conditions. Layered clothing allows riders to adjust to changes in temperature.
• Always carry a survival kit.
• Never harass or chase wildlife
• Watch out for other recreators: trail groomers, back country skiers, horseback riders, snowshoers, and hikers
• Regularly check your fuel supply. Turn around once you've used almost half your fuel.
• Adults should accompany riders from ages 8 to 15 years old at all times.
• Know your machine. Know its fuel capacity and how to perform basic maintenance. Carry extra spark plugs and drive belt.
• Always carry a basic tool kit and survival kit.
• Ride on the right side of the trail, giving the uphill bound machine the right-of-way.
• Use headlights and taillights in both daylight and darkness.
• Use extra caution when coming around blind corners.
• Never park a snowmobile in the trail, where it might pose a safety hazard.