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  Regulations and Other Info
 
     

Cyclist Regulations
Campfires
Firearms
Fishing and Hunting
Pets
Water

 

PLANNING TO VISIT THE NORTHWEST FORESTS?

Please read the information on this page. For the safety and enjoyment of both yourself and others, it is important to understand and abide by the rules and regulations of the Pacific Northwest national forests.

   
 

CYCLIST REGULATIONS

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Bicycles are not allowed in Wilderness areas. Yield right-of-way to other trail users. Horses spook easily when they see an unfamiliar object, especially one that moves quickly and quietly. Realize that people judge all cyclists by your actions.

Slow down and use caution when passing others. If necessary dismount your bicycle on the down-hill side and wait for horses and hikers to pass.

Control your speed at all times and approach turns in anticipation of someone around the bend. Reckless driving and high downhill speeds are not appropriate.

Stay on designated roads and trails to avoid trampling vegetation and creating wheel ruts that can channel water and cause erosion. Stay off muddy trails and avoid cutting across switch- backs. This will minimize soil erosion and protect the trail resource.

Do not disturb wildlife or livestock.

Do not litter. Pack out what you pack in, and more whenever possible. Observe signs prohibiting bicycle use. Some trails or roads may cross private property and deed restrictions may prohibit vehicular travel of any kind.

Respect public and private property by practicing minimal impact cycling.

Extend common courtesy to all trail users. Your cooperation and adherence to these guidelines will help develop a positive attitude toward cyclists.

ALL WILDERNESS AREAS ARE CLOSED TO BIKE USE OF ANY KIND
The 1964 Wilderness Act prohibits all motorized and mechanized use in Wildernesses. Violators will be subject to fines. Cross country ski trails, abandoned logging roads, areas designated for off-road vehicles, non wilderness trails and paved back-country roads provide good riding areas. These areas are usually open to mountain bikes and should provide a good cross-section of terrain and topography.

     
   

CAMPFIRES

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Campfires for cooking and warming are generally permitted on National Forest lands. Fires may be restricted or pro- hibited in certain areas. Signs will be posted in the areas affected.Within camp and picnic grounds campfires may be built only in the grates provided. We suggest taking a portable stove in case open fires are prohibited or firewood is scarce. Only dead wood lying on the ground may be gathered for campfires. Please be careful with fire. Campfires must be attended at all times and completely extinguished before leaving.

     
   

FIREARMS

   

Firearms may be carried in national forests and fired where safe in compliance with state and federal laws. Forest Service regulations prohibit the discharge of a firearm or any other implement capable of taking a human life, causing injury, or damaging property: (1) in or within 150 yards of a residence, building, campsite or developed recreation site, or (2) across or on a forest road or body of water.

     
   

FISHING AND HUNTING

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Fishing and hunting in compliance with state laws are allowed in national forests. Possession of a valid state license is required.

     
   

PETS

   

Pets are allowed in National Forests in developed recreation sites, along designated trails and within Wilderness areas. Regulations require that dogs be kept on a leash.

     
   

WATER

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Water from developed systems at recreation sites is safe to drink. Open water sources are easily contaminated by human or animal waste. Water from springs, lakes, ponds and streams should be treated. Recommended method is to bring water to a rolling boil for five minutes.

 
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