Safety and Outdoor Ethics
Over two million visitors recreate in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area annually.
Each year several individuals or parties get lost or hurt in the woods. Most commonly, hikers get lost going off-trail and then lose the trail or fall from steep edges or cliffs that are all over the area.
The USDA Forest Service, Cascade Locks Fire Department & multiple Search and Rescue teams encourage hikers to be prepared before departing. Search and rescue efforts can be expensive, are often risky to the searchers and create worry for family and friends.
Utilizing a Trip Planning Guide helps hikers familiarize themselves with recreation sites and conditions in advance, and ensures they are appropriately prepared for their outdoor adventures.
Safety Precautions
Leave an Itinerary
Leave a trip itinerary with a trusted contact who will check in with you at your return time.
10 Essentials
Carry the 10 Essential Systems for outdoor recreation which include: map and compass, extra food, extra water, extra clothing, waterproof matches and fire starter, first aid kit, and emergency items (whistle, flashlight, etc.).
Prepare for Weather
Be prepared for extreme temperatures, heat, snow, and rain. Hypothermia is the #1 killer of outdoor enthusiasts.
Do Not Rely On Your Phone
Do not rely on your mobile device. Although GPS devices and cell phones are helpful, do not rely on them, especially in the deep canyons of the Gorge. Even a few hundred yards up some trails there is no cell phone reception, and batteries wear out at inconvenient times.
Know Yourself
Know your limitations and experience level. Make sure you are fit for the type of outing you are planning.
Stay Together
If hiking with others, stay together. It is highly recommended to hike with at least one other person.
Do Not Panic
If you think you are lost, do not panic. Stop and plan your next action, which is often to stay in one place, especially if darkness is near.
Travel During The Day
Leave plenty of daylight for travel. If needed, set up an emergency camp while there is still daylight.
Always recreate with respect!
Outdoor Ethics
The 7 Principles of Leave No Trace are designed to help recreators implement ethical practices. They are:
- Plan ahead and prepare
- Travel and camp on durable surfaces
- Dispose of waste properly
- Leave what you find
- Minimize fire impacts
- Respect wildlife
- Respect others
You can learn more at lnt.org/why/7-principles/ including how these practices take care of natural spaces and what they might look like in different areas.
NOXIOUS WEEDS AFFECT EVERYONE
Noxious weeds are invasive, exotic species that spread rapidly and choke out native species. They degrade the environment and upset the delicate balance of nature. They reduce wildlife habitat and biodiversity, change the function of natural ecosystems, and increase erosion rates sending sediment into streams. Noxious weeds interrupt aesthetic and visual values, reducing your recreation experience.
HELP STOP THEIR SPREAD
Noxious weeds are spread throughout the Columbia River Gorge when seeds are carried in and take root. Seeds can ride in on vehicles, watercraft, clothing, velcro fastenings, gear, and even the soles of your shoes. Floaters or campers who are unaware of their presence can spread them from one campsite location to another. After they mature, noxious weed seeds are carried by wind, water, and people, spreading across the forest. The cycle begins anew. Some plants can produce thousands of seeds, which remain viable for many years.
HERE'S WHAT YOU CAN DO:
Be Aware & Prepare
- Prior to each trip, check your clothing (especially velcro fastenings), equipment, vehicles, and watercraft for weed seeds. Remove any seeds found. Burn them or place them in a sanitary landfill.
- Clean watercraft before and after backcountry trips.
- Learn to identify common local weeds and weeds found in the Columbia River Gorge.
Camp & Travel in Weed Free Areas
- Camp only at existing campsites.
- Avoid traveling through or camping in weed-infested areas.
- Bag and pack out weed seeds.