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If your plans for the Fourth of July holiday include a visit to the Bighorn National Forest, forest officials are offering a few important safety reminders to help ensure your holiday is a safe one.
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If your plans for the Fourth of July holiday include a visit to the Bighorn National Forest, forest officials are offering a few important safety reminders to help ensure your holiday is a safe one.
• The Bighorns have many challenging trails for hiking or riding in remote areas. Check the weather forecast and be prepared for afternoon thunderstorms, lightning, and high winds. Let others know where you’ll be and when you plan to return. Don’t exceed your experience level, whatever the activity may be.
• Cellphones do not work in most areas of the Bighorns, so don’t rely on one for communication.
• Remember that motorized travel is restricted to designated and signed roads and motorized trails. Ensure your off-highway vehicle is registered properly.
• This year, the weather forecast is trending hotter and drier than the last few years. Fire danger serves as a good reminder to put your campfire completely out until it’s cold to touch. Abandoned campfires are the leading cause of wildfires, are a punishable offense and lead to managers implementing fire restrictions. No fire restrictions are in place yet, but check https://www.fs.usda.gov/bighorn or local Ranger District offices for the most up-to-date information on fire conditions.
• Fireworks are illegal on the national forest 365 days a year.
• Federal regulations prohibit discharging a firearm in or within 150 yards of a developed recreation site or occupied area and across or on a National Forest System road or a body of water.
• Black bears roam throughout the Bighorns and can be aggressive when defending food or cubs. Be bear aware by keeping a clean camp. Store attractants inside a building, a vehicle, or in a bear-resistant container. Carry bear spray and keep it handy.
• All campgrounds on the Bighorn National Forest are open. Reservations are encouraged to ensure you enjoy the holiday at your favorite campsite. Reservations can be made at www.recreation.gov.
In observance of Independence Day, Bighorn National Forest offices will be closed Friday, July 3.
