Sharing the trails in Central Oregon

During the summer, hikers, equestrians, and cyclists learn to accommodate each other and share the trails. When snow covers the ground, some of the same factors come into play; but winter competition for trail use is usually among nordic skiers, snowshoers, and snowmobilers.

The rules for winter trail use, however, are essentially the same as in summer and can be summed up quite simply: common sense and courtesy.

"Winter trail use is increasing," said Forest Service Trails Specialist Chris Sabo. In fact, he estimates that "snowshoeing, along with back-country skiing and groomed trail skiing, may have doubled in the last three to five years."

Sabo said that there are a few designated snowshoe trails in the Bend-Fort Rock Ranger District but not in the Sisters Ranger District.

"The designated snowshoe trails are narrow and winding and not very appealing to Nordic skiers. To provide for increasing user demand and reduce conflicts between skiers and snowshoers, Deschutes National Forest trail managers are looking at adding designated snowshoe trails out of other local sno-parks in the

future."

Nordic trails on U.S. Forest Service land are often marked with blue diamonds on tree trunks.

"If a snowshoer finds a Nordic trail, they are definitely welcome to use the trail; but, if they are going to use a blue diamond trail, they should set a separate track at least two feet away from the ski tracks. Likewise, skiers should not ski in a broken snowshoe track."

Recently a Camp Sherman skier spent considerable effort setting down new ski tracks along the new Lake Creek Trail between Camp Sherman and Suttle Lake, but when she returned the next day to enjoy her hard work, the ski tracks had been obliterated by snowshoers. It can be frustrating when winter trail users rush out to enjoy their sport but forget common courtesy.

A handout available at the Sisters Ranger District office spells out some of the basic winter trail etiquette: "Snowshoers and hikers, please do not walk on ski tracks. Snowshoe and foot tracks make it difficult for skiers and has led to skier injuries."

The Forest Service also discourages hiking on ski trails. Not only does it create the possibility of skier injuries, but winter trail users without skis or snowshoes risk injury to themselves.

The Forest Service recommends: "When using an untracked trail, please stay on one side of the trail corridor when setting new tracks. This will allow room for tracks to be set by another type of user within the existing cleared trail corridor."

Sabo summed it up.

"Share the snow and not the tracks," he said.

Snowmobilers are other principal users of winter trails. In many areas, snowmobile users set and maintain their own trails. In other areas, Nordic and snowmobile trails may run alongside each other; and, when that occurs, the same winter rules of common sense and courtesy apply.

For example, snowmobile and Nordic trails out of the Upper Three Creek Sno-Park south of Sisters often run parallel through the same forest corridor (known as a shared-use corridor). In those cases, snowmobile riders should try to avoid damaging ski tracks. Further, there is a safety concern if a snowmobile were to be following a ski track around a corner and suddenly encounter a skier.

As a general practice, skiers are strongly advised to ski to the side of snowmobile trails when snowmobilers are approaching.

Snowmobile users are also reminded to steer clear of congressionally designated wilderness areas where no mechanization is tolerated. This prohibition is taken so seriously that summer trail crews clearing downed trees in the wilderness use hand crosscut saws instead of chain saws.

Other winter motorized closures on the Deschutes National Forest include the Bend municipal watershed, certain areas on Dutchman Flat, blue diamond ski trails, developed ski areas and the area between Swampy and Meissner Sno-Parks. Violators of motorized use prohibitions are subject to substantial penalties, including fines of up to $5,000 and six months in jail.

All trail and backcountry users should always prepare for their adventures by carrying appropriate emergency gear. The "Ten Essentials" are a basic starting point. Essentials should include a map, compass, sunglasses, matches, fire starter, first aid kit, lamp with extra batteries, extra food, water, extra clothes, repair materials like duct tape or wire, knife, whistle, emergency blanket, tin cup for melting snow, and other items as appropriate.

Cell phones are a good idea and are easy and convenient to carry - but they should NOT be considered an alternative to appropriate emergency equipment. Cell phone service in backcountry areas is often limited; and, in cold conditions, batteries often run down much faster.

Backcountry users are reminded that search and rescue missions are often hampered by bad weather, deep snow, cold temperatures and poor access. A lost person may have to rely on what they are carrying for several hours, overnight, or even for a day or two.

Before venturing out onto winter trails, learn about the area and trails to be visited. Information is available at National Forest, Park Service, and BLM offices. Other resources include outdoor shops, and agency Web sites. Be a safe and responsible trail user, and always inform a responsible friend or family member of the location, duration, and return time of your outing.