ARBORETUM NEWS (ANNOUNCEMENTS)
Winter Trail Use
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2011The Arboretum is prepared for snow and the skiing, snowshoeing and winter hiking season. We have designated over 10 miles of ski trails for winter 2011-12. Winter hiking and snowshoeing is permitted on Arboretum trails unless otherwise posted in the field. The official ski map is posted at the Visitor Center, at trailheads and at some trail intersections.
Here are some frequently asked questions to help you understand our winter trail use policy and the reasons for it:
Where can I ski?
Skiing is permitted on designated routes as marked on the official ski map. Routes are marked in the field with “ski” and “not a ski trail” signs. Skiing is permitted in Longenecker Horticultural Gardens on marked trails only—follow the blue-tipped stakes. We do not groom the ski trails and they are multi-use.
Where can I snowshoe?
Snowshoeing is permitted on trails only. In Longenecker Horticultural Gardens, snowshoeing is permitted on marked trails only—follow the blue-tipped stakes. Do not go off trail, because compacted snow and ice damages plants, even in winter.
Where can I hike?
As always, hiking is permitted on trails only. Hikers may use ski trails or footpaths marked with poetry sticks or international hiker signs. To protect our restorations, do not hike off trail.
Why are some trails closed this year?
Several trails are closed because of hazardous conditions or conditions that change often (with stormwater runoff, for example). Sensitive restoration areas or newly seeded areas are also off limits to skiing and snowshoeing. For your safety and to protect our restorations, use only designated and marked trails.
What are those “poetry sticks” blocking trails?
The poetry sticks mark narrow and/or sensitive trails that are closed to skiing, but open to hiking. Thanks to the assistant rangers for creating winter poetry!
We encourage you to enjoy winter at the Arboretum while cooperating with our trail use policy and posted trails!