Here are a few hiking tips to make your trip more enjoyable:

• Plan ahead and prepare: Know the type of terrain and possible weather conditions you might encounter. Maps to the Forest are available at the Welcome Center and online. Current weather conditions are available here. Carry water, snacks, and a small first aid kit.
  Let someone know where you are going and when you will return. Remember that the Forest closes at dusk.
• Stay on trails: Walk single file and avoid shortcuts. Walk through mud/puddles to avoid widening the trail. Pay attention to trail junctures and know where you are on your map.
• Help keep your parks clean and safe: Please dispose of waste properly. Take a zip locking plastic bag along to carry wrappers, cans, or other garbage to an appropriate receptacle. Practice "negative trace" by picking up trash left by others. Report trail or structure damage at the Welcome Center.
• Leave nature in nature: Avoid moving rocks, picking plants, and disturbing cultural/historical artifacts. Take pictures instead; it allows others to enjoy the same experience you did. Email us your favorite photos, and we may include them on this page.
• Respect wildlife: Do not try to attract or approach wildlife. Never feed animals human food as this disrupts their natural food cycle. Keep pets on a leash. Guidebooks to common animals and plants of the Forest are available in the Welcome Center.  You can also download a guide to animal tracks and winter tree identification or a checklist of wildflowers, plants, and trees of Mitchell Hill Lake.
• Be considerate of other visitors: Keep voices/noises from getting intrusively loud. Obey any posted trail rules including rights of way.

Natural Areas Trails

Revised Oct. 2010