NONPROFIT
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BY JERRICA ARCHIBALD
UTAH HAS SOMETHING TO OFFER EVERYONE WHO LIKES TO GET OUTSIDE. From casual campers to hardcore adrenaline junkies, there are nearly unlimited places to explore and play. This is no exception for off-roaders. There are miles of off-roading trails throughout the state; the hard part is choosing where to go.
Overuse, abuse, and damage lead to trail closures. No matter what kind of outdoor activities you enjoy, there is the potential to impact the land and resources negatively. To help maintain access and keep public lands healthy and beautiful, outdoor recreationists need to approach their favorite trails with a sense of respect and responsibility.
But as off-roading grows in popularity and machines like ATVs and UTVs are more prevalent on these trails, it’s important to remember how to tread lightly and why it’s important to stay on the trail, follow signs, and leave these trails better than you found them.
Respect for public land comes in many different forms. Not only should you take care of the resources you recreate on, but also be conscientious and courteous to those who are sharing the trail, might be at the campsite you’re using next, and the land managers who maintain public land.
Tread Lightly! is more than just a phrase, it’s a national nonprofit based in Centerville, Utah that educates outdoor enthusiasts about how to minimize their impact outdoors and hosts public land stewardship projects to improve trails, parks, and forests.
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So, what are some ways you can be respectful when riding an off-road vehicle? Firstly, leave the area better than you found it. Bring a trash bag on the trail to help pack out any trash you might find. Stay on designated
