The Bridger-Teton National Forest reminds visitors that winter wildlife restrictions remain in effect until May 1, 2024. It is important that all forest users understand the importance of observing critical winter range closures. Winter travel maps are available on the forest’s Maps and Publications webpage. These areas have been designated as essential to the survival of wildlife. When visitors access closed winter range, they cause animals using the area to become stressed or flee to new locations. This causes animals, especially ungulates like deer, elk and moose to use energy they cannot spare at this critical time of year. It can also place these animals in less suitable areas for grazing and/or browsing, preventing them from gathering the food sources necessary for their survival. This leads to a weakened condition, which can have a direct effect on the animals’ ability to defend themselves, making them more susceptible to predation and disease, and can lead to future reproduction problems in individual animals.
Spring is also an important time to be aware of hazards that come with the changing season. The forest reminds visitors to exercise caution as snow melts, temperatures rise and precipitation increases during the spring thaw, creating potential for muddy conditions and flooding in low-lying areas. Conditions across the forest are varied this time of year, and visitors should call or visit their local Ranger District Office for the latest updates before heading out for any spring activity. Be sure to let someone know where you are headed and remember that creeks or roads frozen in the morning may become soft and impassable as temperatures rise throughout the day.
Forest users are encouraged to recreate responsibly this spring. Recreating with our four-legged members of our families can be great fun but comes with certain responsibilities. Be aware that many popular trailheads on the Jackson District have leash requirements, and even outside these areas it is imperative that visitors maintain control of their animals through a leash or voice command. This is essential to minimizing impacts on wildlife and improves the experience of other forest users. Bears will soon be coming out of hibernation throughout the area, so be prepared with bear spray and follow food storage orders where applicable on the northern and eastern parts of the forest. All forest users are also encouraged to practice Leave No Trace Principles by having a plan for all waste, as there are limited to no garbage services on the forest and many restrooms are closed or inaccessible due to current conditions.
Jeff
HikinginGlacier.com
TetonHikingTrails.com
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com
Ramble On (2nd edition book on the rich history of hiking)
Exploring Glacier National Park
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