Recreation Tips
We are particularly grateful for these Tips, provided by our parent organisation Tread Lightly!
Here are a selection of brief tips, for more detailed advice, check out our downloadable PDF pamphlets
Responsible Four Wheeling
Travel & recreate with minimum impact
Negotiating terrain
Travel straight up or down a hill or grade.Cross obstacles at an angle, one wheel at a time.
Don’t straddle large rocks.
Avoid mud if you can while remaining on the road or trail. Turn the steering wheel rapidly from side-to-side if you sense a loss of traction.
Turn into ravines or large depressions at about a 45-degree angle.
Straddle ruts, even if they are wider than your vehicle. This will keep your vehicle level.
Cross streams slowly, at a 90-degree angle to the stream.
Winches
For small vehicles, a 6,000 lb. –rated winch is generally adequate.
For larger vehicles, an 8,000 or 9,000 lb. –rated winch is recommended.
Driving tips
Keep your thumbs on top of the steering wheel, to prevent a sprained or broken thumb if the wheel suddenly snaps.
Lower the tire pressure to where you see a bulge in your tire to give you better traction and provide for a smoother ride.
Avoid riding the brakes and clutch, which can lead to break failure.
Minimum impact camping
Select lightweight equipment, possibly in earth-tone colors that will blend with the surroundings.
Use existing campsites whenever possible.
Avoid building fires.
Respect the environment and the rights of others
Rules and common courtesy
Be considerate of others on the road or trail.
Drive only where permitted.
Leave gates as you find them.
Yield the right of way to bikes, horses and hikers.
Keep the noise and dust down. Others will appreciate it.
Pack out what you pack in.
Educate yourself plan and prepare before you go
Preparation
Obtain a map of the area you wish to explore and determine which areas are open for use.
Contact the land manager for area restrictions and if crossing private property, be sure to ask permission from the landowner.
Check the weather forecast.
Safety on the road or trail
Travel with a group of two or more vehicles.
Buckle up for safety.
Drinking and driving don’t mix.
Allow for future use of the outdoors, by leaving it better than you found it
Four Wheeling and the environment
Stay on designated roads and trails or other areas open for use.
Avoid “spooking” livestock you encounter.
Cross streams at fording points only.
Remember, designated wilderness areas are reserved for the most primitive outdoor adventure.
Discover the rewards of responsible recreation
Four wheeling provides the opportunity to get away from it all and builds family traditions.
Remember-if you abuse it, you’ll probably lose it! Careless operation of your off-highway vehicle can cause damage and may result in closing of areas to four-wheel enthusiasts.
Respect the environment and other trail users. By using common sense and common courtesy, what is available today will be here to enjoy tomorrow.
Responsible ATV Riding
Travel & recreate with minimum impact
Negotiating terrain
On slick trails, moderate the throttle and use the clutch to gain maximum traction with minimum tailspin.
On switchbacks, avoid roosting around the apex of the turn when climbing or brake –sliding while heading down which gouges the trail.
When negotiating ruts, stay loose over the bike to allow for sudden direction changes.
Ride loose rocks with your rear end slightly off the seat, looking ahead, easy on the throttle and in one-higher gear than you would normally use.
Cross streams slowly, at a 90-degree angle to the stream. Walking may be preferable as stream bottoms are often slippery.
Minimum impact camping
Select lightweight equipment, possibly in earth-tone colors that will blend with the surroundings.
Use existing campsites whenever possible.
Avoid building fires.
Respect the environment and the rights of others
Rules and common courtesy
Be considerate of others on the road or trail.
Ride only where permitted.
Leave gates as you find them.
Yield the right of way to those passing or traveling uphill.
Keep the noise and dust down. Others will appreciate it.
Pack out what you pack in.
Educate yourself plan and prepare before you go
Preparation
Obtain a map of the area you wish to explore and determine which areas are open for use.
Contact the land manager for area restrictions and if crossing private property, be sure to ask permission from the landowners.
Check the weather forecast.
Prepare for the unexpected by packing a small backpack full of emergency items.
Safety on the road or trail
Wear a helmet, eye protection and other safety gear.
Buddy up with two or three riders as riding solo can leave you vulnerable if you have an accident or breakdown.
Drinking and riding don’t mix.
Allow for future use of the outdoors, by leaving it better than you found it
Trail riding and the environment
Stay on designated roads and trails or other areas open for use.
Avoid “spooking” livestock you encounter.
Cross streams at fording points only.
Remember, designated wilderness areas are reserved for the most primitive outdoor adventure.
Discover the rewards of responsible recreation
ATV riding provides the opportunity to get away from it all and builds family traditions.
Remember - if you abuse it, you’ll probably lose it! Careless operation of your off-highway vehicle can cause damage and may result in closing of areas to ATV riding enthusiasts.
Respect the environment and other trail users. By using common sense and common courtesy, what is available today will be here to enjoy tomorrow.
Responsible Trail Riding
Travel & recreate with minimum impact
Negotiating terrain
On slick trails, moderate the throttle and use the clutch to gain maximum traction with minimum tailspin.
On switchbacks, avoid roosting around the apex of the turn when climbing or brake –sliding while heading down which gouges the trail.
When negotiating ruts, stay loose over the bike to allow for sudden direction changes.
Ride loose rocks with your rear end slightly off the seat, looking ahead, easy on the throttle and in one-higher gear than you would normally use.
Cross streams slowly, at a 90-degree angle to the stream. Walking may be preferable as stream bottoms are often slippery.
Minimum impact camping
Select lightweight equipment, possibly in earth-tone colors that will blend with the surroundings.
Use existing campsites whenever possible.
Avoid building fires.
Respect the environment and the rights of others
Rules and common courtesy
Be considerate of others on the road or trail.
Ride only where permitted.
Leave gates as you find them.
Yield the right of way to those passing or traveling uphill.
Keep the noise and dust down. Others will appreciate it.
Pack out what you pack in.
Educate yourself plan and prepare before you go
Preparation
Obtain a map of the area you wish to explore and determine which areas are open for use.
Contact the land manager for area restrictions and if crossing private property, be sure to ask permission from the landowners.
Check the weather forecast.
Prepare for the unexpected by packing a small backpack full of emergency items.
Safety on the road or trail
Wear a helmet, eye protection and other safety gear.
Buddy up with two or three riders as riding solo can leave you vulnerable if you have an accident or breakdown.
Drinking and riding don’t mix.
Allow for future use of the outdoors, by leaving it better than you found it
Trail riding and the environment
Stay on designated roads and trails or other areas open for use.
Avoid “spooking” livestock you encounter.
Cross streams at fording points only.
Remember, designated wilderness areas are reserved for the most primitive outdoor adventure.
Discover the rewards of responsible recreation
Trail riding provides the opportunity to get away from it all and builds family traditions.
Remember-if you abuse it, you’ll probably lose it! Careless operation of your off-highway motorcycle can cause damage and may result in closing of areas to trail riding enthusiasts.
Respect the environment and other trail users. By using common sense and common courtesy, what is available today will be here to enjoy tomorrow.
Responsible Mountain Bike Riding
Travel & recreate with minimum impact
Negotiating terrain
When climbing, shift to a gear that provides comfortable forward momentum and maintains traction.
When descending, apply enough brake to maintain control, but avoid locking your bike’s wheels.
Avoid trails that are obviously wet and muddy to avoid trail damage.
Cross streams slowly, at a 90-degree angle to the stream. Walking may be preferable as stream bottoms are often slippery.
Minimum impact camping
Select lightweight equipment, possibly in earth-tone colors that will blend with the surroundings.
Use existing campsites whenever possible.
Avoid building fires.
Respect the environment and the rights of others
Rules and common courtesy
Be considerate of others on the road or trail.
Ride only where permitted.
Leave gates as you find them.
Yield the right of way to those passing or traveling uphill.
Pack out what you pack in.
Educate yourself plan and prepare before you go
Preparation
Obtain a map of the area you wish to explore and determine which areas are open for use.
Contact the land manager for area restrictions and if crossing private property, be sure to ask permission from the landowners.
Check the weather forecast.
Prepare for the unexpected by packing a small backpack full of emergency items.
Safety on the road or trail
Wear a helmet, eye protection and other safety gear.
Buddy up with two or three riders as riding solo can leave you vulnerable if you have an accident or breakdown.
Drinking and riding don’t mix.
Allow for future use of the outdoors, by leaving it better than you found it
Trail riding and the environment
Stay on designated roads and trails or other areas open for use.
Avoid “spooking” livestock you encounter.
Cross streams at fording points only.
Remember, designated wilderness areas are reserved for the most primitive outdoor adventure.
Discover the rewards of responsible recreation
Mountain biking provides the opportunity to get away from it all and builds family traditions.
Remember-if you abuse it, you’ll probably lose it! Careless operation of your bike can cause damage and may result in closing of areas to mountain bike enthusiasts.
Respect the environment and other trail users. By using common sense and common courtesy, what is available today will be here to enjoy tomorrow.
Responsible Horseback Riding
Travel & recreate with minimum impact
Stay on established trails and routes and other areas open for horse use. Be aware of prohibited areas.
Know which roads are open to vehicles.
Cutting switchbacks and taking shortcuts can destroy vegetation and cause others to use the unauthorized route.
Respect the environment and the rights of others
Respect and be courteous to others who want to enjoy the lands you are enjoying.
Be considerate and honor other's desire for solitude and a peaceful outdoor experience.
When riding, be especially cautious around hikers and bikers.
Educate yourself plan and prepare before you go
Check with the land management agency for permits or use requirements.
Check the weather forecast for your destination. Plan clothing, equipment and supplies accordingly.
If you will be using private property contact the land owner(s) for permission.
Carry a map and compass and know how to use them.
If possible, do not shoe horses prior to a trip. New shoes cut up the ground more than worn shoes.
Make certain your trailer lights work.
Allow for future use of the outdoors, by leaving it better than you found it
Whenever possible, use existing campsites designated for horses. Camp on durable surfaces and place tents on a non-vegetated areas. Do not dig trenches around tents.
Camp at least 200 feet from water and trails.
Hold horses 200 feet from lakes, streams, huts and camping areas.
Avoid damage to vegetation when tethering your horse. Do not tie horses to trees, small limbs saplings or shrubs. Use a highline for tethering.
Use yards, paddocks or hitching rails where provided.
Report lost horses immediately.
For cooking, use a camp stove. They are always preferable to a campfire in terms of impact on the land.
Observe all fire restrictions. For campfires, use only fallen timber. Gather firewood well away from your camp. Do not cut down trees.
Let fire burn down to a fine ash. Ensure the fire is completely extinguished.
Leave your surroundings as you found them.
Discover the rewards of responsible recreation
Horseback Riding provides the opportunity to get away from it all and builds family traditions.
Help preserve the beauty and inspiring attributes of the great outdoors for yourself and generations to come by horseback riding responsibly. Remember-if you abuse it, you’ll probably lose it! Do all you can to protect the forest and lands that mean so much to you.
Respect the environment and other trail users. By using common sense and common courtesy, what is available today will be here to enjoy tomorrow.
Tread Lightly!’s Horseback One Page Tip brochure contains more information for you when you ride in the great outdoors.
Responsible Hiking
Travel & recreate with minimum impact
Stay on the trail even if it is rough and muddy. Walking on the track edge and cutting switchbacks increase damage, cause erosion and visual scarring.
Walk single file to avoid widening the trial.
Spread out in open country where there are no trails. Spreading out, rather than following each other’s footsteps, disperses impact and avoids creating a new trail.
Avoid sensitive vegetation. Watch where you put your feet.
Flagging and marking trails is unsightly. If necessary, remove flagging as you leave.
Respect the environment and the rights of others
Remember, designated wilderness areas are reserved for the most primitive outdoor adventure.
Respect and be courteous to other users who also want to enjoy the lands you are using. Set an example of courtesy for all.
Be considerate and honor other’s desire for solitude and a peaceful outdoor experience.
Be especially cautious around horses and bikers. Stay to the right of the trail and let them pass.
Educate yourself plan and prepare before you go
Check the weather forecast for your destination. Plan clothing, equipment and supplies accordingly.
If you will be using private property contact the land owner(s) for permission.
Inquire about regulations in your area at the local land management office.
Make a realistic trail plan and stick to it. Let someone know where you are going and when you expect to be back.
Carry a map and compass and know how to use them.
Choose appropriate footwear for the terrain. Solid, lightweight walking boots are best. Sandals can be used on trails in summer and around your campsite.
Dress in layers and always carry a jacket. Weather conditions can change unexpectedly.
Use poly-pro or fleece clothing. Cotton traps moisture.
Carry water and emergency supplies even on short hikes.
Repackage snacks and food in baggies. This reduces weight and the amount of trash to carry out.
Your pack weight should not exceed 1/3 of body weight.
Allow for future use of the outdoors, by leaving it better than you found it
Whenever possible, use existing campsites. Camp on durable surfaces and place tents on a non-vegetated area.
Camp at least 200 feet from water.
Do not dig trenches around tents.
Leave your natural surroundings as you found them.
Carry out what you carry in. Don’t burn or bury trash.
Human waste should be disposed of in a shallow hole (6”-8” deep) at least 200 feet from water sources, campsites or trails. The hole should be covered and disguised with natural materials. Use toilet paper sparingly and bury it in the hole.
Discover the rewards of responsible recreation
Hiking provides the opportunity to get away from it all and builds family traditions.
Help preserve the beauty and inspiring attributes of the great outdoors for yourself and generation to come by hiking responsibly. Remember-if you abuse it, you’ll probably lose it! Do all you can to protect the forest and lands that mean so much to you.
Respect the environment and other trail users. By using common sense and common courtesy, what is available today will be here to enjoy tomorrow.
Tread Lightly!’s Hiking One Page Tip brochure contains more information for you when you go hiking in the great outdoors.
Responsible Fishing
Travel & recreate with minimum impact
While traveling to your favorite fishing spot, stay on existing trails and routes to reduce impact.
Cutting switchbacks and taking shortcuts can destroy vegetation and cause erosion, affecting aquatic habitat.
On water areas, travel only on areas that are open for your type of boat or motor.
Respect the environment and the rights of others
If fishing with a boat, always launch at a designated launching ramp. Backing a vehicle on a riverbank can damage the bank and cause erosion.
Dispose of unwanted or tangled fishing line and nets properly as they can be lethal to fish, marine mammals, birds and reptiles.
Leave aquatic plants and animals in water as they may die if removed.
Respect and be courteous to other users who also want to use the land and waters you are using.
Be considerate and honor other's desire for solitude and a peaceful outdoor setting.
Educate yourself plan and prepare before you go
Check the weather forecast for your destination. Plan clothing, equipment and supplies accordingly.
If you will be using private property contact the land owner(s) for permission.
Know the limits and legal length of fish you intend to catch.
Obtain a map of the area.
Allow for future use of the outdoors, by leaving it better than you found it
Return undersized, oversized or unwanted fish to the water as soon as possible. Practice "catch and release."
Take only what you need. Leave some fish for others and for breeding.
Discover the rewards of responsible recreation
Fishing provides the opportunity to get away from it all and builds family traditions.
Help preserve the beauty and inspiring attributes of the great outdoors for yourself and generation to come by fishing responsibly. Remember-if you abuse it, you’ll probably lose it! Do all you can to protect the lands and waters that mean so much to you.
Respect the environment and other trail users and fisherman. By using common sense and common courtesy, what is available today will be here to enjoy tomorrow.
Tread Lightly!’s Fishing One Page Tip brochure contains more information for you when you fish in the great outdoors.
Responsible Hunting
Travel & recreate with minimum impact
Staying on established trails and routes reduces the impacts of hunting. Travel only on areas open to your type of vehicle.
Cutting switchbacks and taking shortcuts can destroy vegetation and cause others to use the unauthorized route.
Cross streams at designated fording points.
Respect the environment and the rights of others
Remember, designated wilderness areas are reserved for the most primitive outdoor adventure.
Respect and be courteous to others who also want to enjoy the lands and waters you are using. Set an example of courtesy for all.
Be considerate and honor other's desire for solitude and a peaceful outdoor experience.
When driving, be especially cautious around horses, hikers and bikers. Pull off to the side of the road or trail and let them pass.
As you travel, comply with signage. Honor all gates, fences and barriers that are there to protect our natural resources, wildlife and livestock.
Educate yourself plan and prepare before you go
Educate yourself by having the right information, maps and equipment to make your trip safe.
Know the local laws and regulations for hunting.
On private lands, be sure to obtain the owner or land manager's permission to cross or use their lands.
Dress in layers and carry a jacket. Weather conditions can change unexpectedly.
Allow for future use of the outdoors, by leaving it better than you found it
Avoid sensitive areas, such as stream banks, lakeshores and meadows.
Carry out what you carry in. Don't burn or bury trash.
Flagging and marking trails is unsightly. If necessary, remove flagging as you leave.
Discover the rewards of responsible recreation
Hunting provides the opportunity to get away from it all and builds family traditions.
Help preserve the beauty and inspiring attributes of the great outdoors for yourself and generation to come by hunting responsibly. Remember-if you abuse it, you’ll probably lose it! Do all you can to protect the lands and waters that mean so much to you.
Respect the environment and other trail users and hunters. By using common sense and common courtesy, what is available today will be here to enjoy tomorrow.
Tread Lightly!’s Hunting One Page Tip brochure contains more information for you when you hunt in the great outdoors.
PDF Resources
these downloadable guides are held on Adobe PDF format to save space and allow for a fast download. If you haven't already, you will need to obtain a copy of Adobe Reader to be able to view them
Responsible Trail Bike Riding - PDF (436Kb) - regret this file is currently broken !
