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Safety and Outdoor Ethics

Pay special attention to local regulations so that you are aware of restrictions on fire, activities, and even pets. Above all else, leave our precious recreation spots better than you found it by disposing all waste properly, minimizing campfire impacts, and being considerate of others. View the resources below to explore other ways you and your family can be safe and ethical while enjoying the outdoors.

Select the headings below for more information.

Know Before You Go

Bear Awareness

Grizzly bear with cubs

The Caribou-Targhee National Forest is home to both grizzy and black bears. Please educate yourself about bears and what precautions are necessary when recreating in bear country.

Safety on the Trails and Roads

Sharing and stewarding our public lands means taking care of them and looking out for each other. Ensuring that our natural spaces are kept clean and scenic means that they can be enjoyed for years to come. Use the tips and resources below to learn about trail etiquette and how to respect your public lands.

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Right-Of-Way
  • Obey all posted signs and area designations detailed.
  • Practice good outdoor ethics. Leave No Trace principles help protect natural resources and keep public lands beautiful. Review the 7 principles to respect the land, its visitors, and its inhabitants.
  • Make sure pets are kept on leashes no longer than 6 feet in designated recreation areas.
  • Share the trail, the outdoors are for everyone. Be aware that other recreationists are likely to be present in the area. Be sure to yield when necessary, be considerate of other users by parking to allow the maximum number of vehicles, and be kind and say hello!
    • Bicyclists must yield to all other non-motorized trail users, unless the trail is clearly signed for bike-only travel. Bicyclists traveling downhill yield to ones headed uphill, unless the trail is clearly signed for one-way or downhill-only traffic. Stay safe and communicate with other recreationists on the trails at all times!
  • If you enjoy motorized recreation, respect uphill policies, yield to non-motorized recreationists, always stay in control and maintain the ability to stop, use established pick-up and drop-off areas, do not stop where you may obstruct roads or not be visible, stay out of wilderness areas, and stack your tracks to conserve the terrain. Pay attention to where motor vehicle travel is allowed on roads and trails.

Last updated May 9th, 2025