Below is a list of OHV trail etiquette provided by the DNR at the last Trail Host meeting.
• Protect your travel privilege by staying on the road and trails!
• Honor seasonal and permanent trail closures.
• Be considerate of others on the road or trail.
• Motorized users always yield to non-motorized users (hikers, horses, and bikes). When encountering hikers and horses on trails, pull over and shut off your engine. Remove your helmet and let them pass. Avoid any sudden movement or loud noises. Let them get far enough away before you restart your engine as to not startle or irritate them. Use the extra few minutes spent on the side of the trail waiting for someone to pass to stretch your legs, get a drink, and adjust your gear. If a conflict ensues even after your best effort to accommodate others, you may want to walk away (drive away). Notify the local land manager about the incident with as many details as possible to enable them to reduce future conflicts.
• Ask riders what to do to facilitate passing. Follow at a safe distance until they reach the next suitable place to pass. Then pass slowly and as quietly as possible. One little thrust of the throttle can leave behind a shower of gravel, dust, snow.
• Yield the right of way to those passing or traveling uphill.
• Stay on the right side of the road or trail especially on corners and blind spots.
• Drive under control at safe speeds considering the terrain and possibility of meeting others.
• Travel in the middle of the trail to avoid widening it. Trail widening is unsightly and expensive to repair.
• Do not alter manufacture’s muffler system for driving on trails. Loud exhaust systems are annoying to other users.
• Limit racing to closed tracks.
• In campgrounds, turn off and push your machine; or, only drive directly to and from your campsite. Minimize noise around others by using a slow constant and reduced speed.
• Do not use an OHV for an alternative babysitter. Ensure children are properly trained, equipped, and supervised at all times.
• Avoid spooking livestock you encounter.
• Avoid late night driving near campsites, lodges and populated areas unless so designated.
• Snowmobiles should operate at a minimum speed near cross-country skiers, snow-shoers, and other non-motorized recreationists.
• Do not drive on tracks made by or for cross-country skiers.
• Never litter. Always carry out what you carry in. Carry a trash bag with you to pick up and pack out other people’s trash you may come upon.
• Always choose to TREAD LIGHTLY.
• Adults should accompany and supervise drivers of ages 8-15 at all times.