Danskin Mountains OHV Trails Reopen to Motorized Use
This press release from the Boise National Forest was passed my way by Dave Sundholm (BWBT member and President of the local motorcycle club Idaho Mountain Dirt Riders):
NEWS RELEASE FROM BOISE NATIONAL FOREST
Boise National Forest, 1249 S. Vinnell Way, Suite 200, Boise, Idaho 83709, (208) 373-4100
Danskin Mountains OHV Trails Reopen to Motorized Use
Mountain Home, ID – Effective Thursday, May 1, the Forest Service will reopen all trails for motorized use in the Danskin Mountain Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Area located on the Mountain Home Ranger District of the Boise National Forest.
The seasonal trail closure normally ends by mid-April, but with the heavy snows and slow melting, it was extended this year. Last year for example, due to a low snow pack, the area was open by late March. The purpose of the motorized vehicle closure is to minimize trail damage and protect resources during the wet spring thaw conditions. Trails are especially susceptible to surface damage during the early spring due to saturated soils from snowmelt and active freezing thawing cycles.“It is likely that a few trails will not be passable at this time. Some snow remains on trails on north facing slopes at higher elevations and there are some slumps and ruts, so motorized enthusiasts need to use caution as trail hazards are not identified,” said Larry Tripp, Mountain Home District Ranger. “We encourage all riders to exercise responsibility and care when riding through any wet areas to prevent damage.”
The OHV Area is about 30 miles east of Boise and includes nearly 160 miles of designated motorized use trails. Equestrian, mountain bike and foot travel is also allowed in the area.
Motorized enthusiasts are reminded that their machine must display a valid State of Idaho Motorbike/ATV sticker for operation on these trails and compliance with this regulation is strictly enforced. The only motorized vehicles allowed on area trails are those with wheels and machines must be 50 inches or less in width. Motorized vehicle travel is allowed only on designated routes within the area. Citizens observing illegal activity are encouraged to report violators to Forest Service law enforcement officers. A key ingredient to protect and preserve the trail system is user compliance.
Maps for the Danskin Mountain OHV Area identifying all trails designated for motorcycle and ATV use are available at Forest Service offices and from several OHV dealers in Boise and Mountain Home. Further information is available by contacting the Mountain Home Ranger District office at 208-587-7961.