Up jumps spring across the United States, and out the door go hundreds of recreation enthusiasts in search of bike paths, walking trails and waterways. But spring fever comes with a price.
Spring is the most fragile time of the year for wildlife and plants after a harsh, cold, winter.
First, check to see that the trail you've chosen is open for the use you have in mind. Make sure it is dry and that you stay on it. As a rule of thumb in the spring, pick a trail with solid snowpack or one that is completely dry of snowmelt and spring runoff. Mountain biking, four-wheeling and even hiking on wet trails causes damage that is nearly irreparable. This is true especially in higher elevations.