Washington State Parks

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Non-motorized Sno-Park trail etiquette

Sno-Park locations • Snowplay locations • PDF Maps • Permits • Trail Etiquette • Advisory Committee

Groomed Trails

Some Sno-Parks have groomed trails. Their location depends on winter logging activity, snow conditions, movement of wildlife closures and other factors. Trails are groomed periodically by State Parks. Decisions on when to groom are based on snow conditions and on the availability of Sno-Park funds.

Special groomed trails receive frequent grooming, generally three times a week. Not all Sno-Parks have special groomed trails.

Dogs on Trails
Dogs punch holes in the trails with their paws, making paths difficult and dangerous to follow. Dogs, except those operating in a seeing-eye capacity, are prohibited on all groomed trails. Dogsledding and skijoring are allowed only on backcountry (non-groomed) and snowmobile trails.

Code of Ethics

Maximize your winter enjoyment by following this Winter Recreation Code of Ethics:

1. I will respect all public and private property and the rights of all winter recreationists to enjoy the beauty.
2. I will park considerately without blocking other vehicles or impeding access to trails.
3. I will keep to the right when meeting other winter recreationists and yield the right of way to downhill traffic.
4. I will slow down and use caution when approaching or overtaking another.
5. I will respect designated areas, trail use signs, and established ski tracks.
6. When stopping, I will not block the trail.
7. I will not disturb wildlife and will avoid areas posted for its protection or feeding.
8. I will not litter and I will pack out everything I packed in.
9. I realize that my destination and travel speed are determined by my equipment, ability, terrain, weather and traffic on the trail. In case of an emergency, I will volunteer assistance.
10. I will not interfere with or harass others, recognizing that people judge all skiers or snowmobilers by my actions.

Trail Tips

• Leave dogs at home.
• Don't walk on a groomed trail.
• When stopping, move to the side of the trail.
• Allow right of way to skiers coming downhill.
• Obey all signs and ski within your ability for safety's sake.
• Improve technique to increase your enjoyment.
• Ski in single file to the right of the trail.
• Sound a pleasant warning when passing a slower skier.
• If you fall, fill your hole.
• Ski only in the direction marked by arrows.
• Don't litter.

Most importantly, have fun!