As users of the Shawnee Forest trail system, each of us is tasked with respecting the resources of the forest. We have fought long and hard to retain access for all, so it is paramount that each of us take responsibility for our own actions. We ask to remember these following things:
Pack it in, pack it out:
take all trash, food wrappers, and belongings with you.
Respect private property and posted signage:
boundaries are there to protect landowners and wildlife.
Stay on marked trails:
avoid cutting switchbacks or making new paths, which causes erosion.
Do not hang hammocks or damage trees:
even small actions can harm bark and roots.
Leave what you find:
don’t pick plants, remove rocks, or disturb historic features.
Keep pets leashed and under control:
protect wildlife and other hikers.
Be mindful with campfires:
only in designated areas, and fully extinguish them.
Minimize noise:
let nature’s sounds be the soundtrack for everyone.
Yield courteously:
hikers going uphill have the right of way; step aside for equestrians and bikers when appropriate
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Travel in small groups:
reduce impact on trails and wildlife.
Respect wildlife:
observe from a distance, never feed or chase animals.