Recreate responsibly this winter - key advice for being on snow and ice

With Presidents Day weekend upon us, remember to plan ahead, ensure your vehicle is snow-ready, and exercise extreme caution when recreating during winter conditions on California’s National Forests.

Excellent resources on weather conditions, Leave No Trace principles, and winter safety are available in the Recreate Responsibly Winter Toolkit. A Spanish version of the toolkit can be found here.

To further ensure you have a safe and enjoyable outing on the snow and ice, follow these essential points of advice:

· Know Before You Go – Check the weather of your destination, road conditions, tire chain requirements, and potential road closures. Don’t get lured into taking alternative routes around road closures. Alternative routes recommended by travel apps and online map services often do not reflect the current situation and you may get lost or stuck. Instead check this resource: QuickMap.

· Be Prepared – Carry tire chains, ice scraper; check your tire pressure and tread; top off windshield fluid; keep an extra blanket and provisions in your car in case you become stuck on the roadside.

· Keep in Touch – Let someone know the details of your trip, including where you’re going and when you will be back. Stick to your plan.

· Play it Safe – Know your limits. Slow down and choose lower-risk activities.

· Check Ski/Snowboard Conditions – Check conditions and operating status before hitting the slopes but remember that conditions can change quickly. Please follow all safety guidelines. Resource: Ski Safety - Ski California - Avalanche Safety

· Take Caution on Ice – Due to daily temperature changes, areas that appear solid may have thawed and become impassible. Ice skating, fishing, or trekking on frozen lakes, ponds, rivers, or reservoirs is not recommended and is at your own risk. Consider visiting an indoor skating facility as a safer alternative.

· Be Avalanche Aware – Backcountry users should take extra precautions, travel in groups, carry appropriate avalanche equipment, and check the avalanche report ahead of time. Resource: Sierra Avalanche Center | Backcountry Avalanche, Snow, and Weather Information for the greater Lake Tahoe area