BACKCOUNTRY PORTAL

BEST PRACTICES

PLAN AHEAD: Parking at trailheads is limited and popular parking areas fill quickly; be flexible and have an alternate plan. Call the Bridger-Teton National Forest (307.739.5500) for up-to-date information and recommended alternatives.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: Check the weather forecast, avalanche conditions & be prepared with the right equipment
LEAVE NO TRACE: Minimize human & animal waste in high-use winter recreation areas. Use a facility before you head out, or be prepared to pack it out. If you must, bury waste well away from travel routes and 200 yards from water sources.
RESPECT WILDLIFE: Review and respect these critical wildlife closures.Be alert and give wildlife plenty of space. Find a new route if you encounter a moose or other large animals on the trail. Keep your dog close, and comply with leash requirements.
BE KIND: We all want to enjoy our time outdoors. A little kindness towards others goes a long way. Be friendly- say hi and offer thanks to those who are being responsible. Share the trail - think “we, not me”.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: Check the status of places you want to visit for closures, avalanche conditions, and weather.
PLAN & PREPARE: Make sure you have the proper equipment & a plan.
BUILD AN INCLUSIVE OUTDOORS: Be a part of making the outdoors safe & welcoming for all identities & abilities.
RESPECT OTHERS: There is space for everyone & countless outdoor activities. Be kind to all who use the outdoors & nature differently.
LEAVE NO TRACE: Respect the land, water, wildlife & Native communities. Follow the 7 leave no trace principles.
MAKE IT BETTER: We all have a responsibility to sustain the places we love. Volunteer, donate, & advocate for the outdoors.

KEEP YOUR DOG CLOSE: Dogs are required to be at your side or under voice control, even where there are no leash requirements. Follow posted regulations. Leashing is strongly encouraged and sometimes required at most trailheads or parking areas.
WATCH FOR WILDLIFE: Give wildlife at least 25 yards and be prepared to turn around if wildlife is on the trail.
SCOOP THE POOP: Keep the trails clean. Be prepared to pack out your dog’s waste.

CARPOOL: Parking can be limited at trailheads and popular parking areas fill quickly; be flexible and have an alternate plan.
OBEY NO PARKING SIGNS: Do not park in the WYODOT parking spaces or beyond the designated parking areas.
BE POLITE: Park tight next to cars and be patient waiting for a parking spot without impeding traffic.
LEASH YOUR DOG: Keep your dog on a leash in parking areas and near roads.