For many people, warm temperatures and sunny skies brings out a desire for hikes and bike rides. At this time of the year, when many trails and dirt roads are wet, its important to choose wisely when considering where to go. For the latest information about what is open and closed please visit the BCRD Summer TraiLink site at: trails.bcrd.org

Area land managers close trails at this time of the year because wet trails are easily damaged by traffic. Walking off trail during mud season is also hard on the landscape, as vegetation is especially vulnerable to damage when soils are soggy. Additionally, when people travel on wet trails, the trails tend to get widened. Widening occurs as people gravitate toward the sides of the trails, where things are a little less muddy.

If you are on an open trail where you encounter a wet area, stay on the trail. If you are biking, stop and carry your bike through. Everyone should walk down the middle of the trail to minimize his or her impact. Don’t widen the trails.

You may feel that a particular trail that is closed can support your walk or ride, but please respect the closures. While an area may support your travel at the time of your initial passing, your later return may find conditions to have changed dramatically. As the day progresses conditions along the trails are changing. As you travel deeper into a closed area you may find that the trail conditions deteriorate to the point of finding yourself in a big mess. Turning around makes a mess, going forward makes a mess. Please heed all closures and enjoy the open and dry trails and roads we have available to us