A few reminders about shared use on the Old Pass Road

We at Friends of Pathways would like to pass along some information about the new signs you may have noticed along the Old Pass Road, and share some general trail use suggestions.

If we take a look at the number of runs that funnel into the Old Pass Road, and combine that with the uphill traffic, it adds up to a significant amount of use – by adding these notifications, we're trying to stay ahead of potential conflicts and suggest a basic system for how we all navigate this area.

• Generally, let's try to stay to the right on our path of travel.
• Realize that we have a wide range of use including snowboarders, skiers, snowshoes, runners, sleds, baby carriers, dogs, goats, even kitty cats – the list goes on!
• Announce your presence/intentions in a friendly manner.  If we need to come to a stop when traveling downhill, so be it - boarders will want to carry speed, but should do so in a responsible manner.
• Consider your speed/maneuverability when passing someone.  If one or the other makes a false move at the wrong time, what are the potential consequences?  While passing, give yourself a wide enough berth to allow for those unpredictable situations.
• Think about the conditions - after the bigger dumps, the track will be one set of tracks, and as it sees more use, the lane will widen.
• Remind yourself that some folks actually do turn, or weave across the track when descending.
• Give wildlife plenty of room; adapt to their zone, not vice versa!
• If stopped for whatever reason, move OFF the trail and out of the way.
• Consider your speed and the limited visibility around corners.
• Remember that these are simply guidelines and PLEASE DON'T USE THEM TO ENFORCE YOUR RIGHT OF WAY.  An attitude such as ‘I own the right side of the road, and as long as I announce my presence I will run over whoever that doesn't move’ won’t go very far in promoting enjoyable use.
• Raise the human spirit, have ‘your way’ work for everyone.

Please let us know if you have any other helpful suggestions or feedback about this and other Friends of Pathways programs!

Cheers,

Jay Pistono, Teton Pass Winter Ambassador