US Forest Service Visitor Use Travel Map - Escalante Ranger District

US Forest Service Visitor Use Travel Map - Escalante District: Your Guide to OHV Adventures in Dixie National Forest

Embark on an unforgettable OHV adventure through the stunning landscapes of the Escalante District in Dixie National Forest with this comprehensive US Forest Service Travel Map. This detailed, full-color map is your essential companion for navigating the district's vast network of roads and trails, specifically highlighting those designated for motorized vehicle use.

Discover a wealth of riding opportunities as you explore numerous features identified on the map, including:

• Extensive Trail Systems: Plan your routes along trails such as the Great Western Trail, Pacer Lake ATV Trail, Antimony Lake ATV Trail, and Birch Creek ATV Trail. Discover loops like the Long & Round Willow Bottom Loop and spurs like the Griffin Spur Trail.
• Scenic Geographic Features: Navigate by landmarks like Pine Creek, McGath Canyon, Bear Creek, Deer Creek, Horse Creek, and Halls Creek. Explore areas around Griffin Top, Long Neck, and Island in the Sky.
• Key Towns and Access Points: Locate nearby towns which serve as potential staging areas or for resupply.
• Campgrounds for Overnight Stays: Identify campgrounds such as Blue Spruce Campground, Pine Lake Recreation Area, and Posey Lake Campground for planning multi-day excursions.
• Road Networks: Clearly distinguish between various road types, including forest roads open year-round and those with seasonal closures, ensuring you stay on designated routes.

Unlock Your Adventure with the Map Legend:

The map legend is your key to understanding the wealth of information presented. It clearly distinguishes between:

• Road Designations: Showing which roads are open to all vehicles year-round, seasonally, or restricted to full-sized vehicles only.
• Motorized Trails: Specifically marking trails open to vehicles 50 inches or less in width, perfect for OHVs and ATVs.
• Non-Motorized Trails: Clearly indicating routes reserved for hiking, horseback riding, and other non-motorized uses, ensuring you respect these areas.
• Campgrounds and Recreational Areas: Pinpointing developed campgrounds, picnic areas, and other facilities to aid in your trip planning.
• Water Features: Locating lakes, rivers, and streams, which can be important for navigation and awareness.
• Boundary Lines: Defining the boundaries of the Dixie National Forest and any adjacent wilderness areas where motorized travel is prohibited.

Planning Your OHV Adventure:

By carefully studying the map and its legend, you can effectively plan your OHV adventure:

1. Identify Legal Riding Areas: Focus on the clearly marked motorized trails and roads designated for OHV use. Pay close attention to width restrictions to ensure your vehicle is permitted on your chosen routes.
2. Create Custom Routes: Link together various motorized trails and open roads to design loops or point-to-point adventures that match your skill level and desired scenery.
3. Locate Potential Campsites: Identify campgrounds along your planned routes or within reasonable distance, noting any reservation requirements or seasonal closures. The map also helps in finding potential dispersed camping areas (where permitted and following regulations).
4. Assess Terrain and Difficulty: While the map provides a general overview, consider pairing it with other resources for detailed trail descriptions and difficulty ratings.
5. Plan for Logistics: Identify water sources (though always treat before drinking), potential fuel stops (in nearby towns), and emergency access points.

Important Laws, Rules, and Etiquette for Riding in the Escalante District:

Riding responsibly ensures the preservation of this beautiful area and the continued enjoyment of all visitors. Please adhere to the following:

• Stay on Designated Routes: The Dixie National Forest Travel Map clearly marks designated roads and trails for motorized use. Cross-country travel (off-trail) is prohibited. This is crucial for preventing erosion, protecting vegetation, and minimizing disturbance to wildlife.
• Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM): While this Travel Map is helpful, be aware that the official Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM) is the legal document showing open routes. Obtain the most current MVUM from the Forest Service.
• Vehicle Regulations: Ensure your OHV is properly registered and equipped according to Utah state law. Operators and passengers under 18 years of age are required to wear DOT-approved helmets. Operators aged 8-15 must possess an OHV education certificate.
• Wilderness Areas are Off-Limits: Respect all designated Wilderness areas within the Dixie National Forest. No motorized vehicles, including OHVs, are allowed in Wilderness. These areas are managed for their pristine natural character and non-motorized recreation.
• Speed Limits: Observe posted speed limits and always ride at a safe and controlled speed, considering terrain, visibility, and other users.
• Yield to Others: Motorized vehicles must yield the right-of-way to non-motorized users such as hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians. When encountering horses, stop, turn off your engine, and allow them to pass safely.
• Leave Gates as You Find Them: Whether open or closed, always leave gates in their original position to manage livestock and access.
• Tread Lightly: Minimize your impact on the environment. Avoid riding in wet or muddy conditions that can cause rutting and trail damage. Stay on the trail and do not cut switchbacks.
• Pack It In, Pack It Out: Carry out all trash and dispose of it properly. Leave no trace of your visit.
• Respect Wildlife: Observe wildlife from a distance and never harass or feed animals. Be aware of seasonal closures to protect sensitive wildlife habitats.
• Be Considerate of Others: Keep noise levels reasonable, especially near campgrounds and other recreation areas. Quiet hours are typically enforced in developed sites.
• Alcohol and Drugs: Operating an OHV under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal and dangerous.
• Fire Safety: Be aware of current fire restrictions and regulations. Ensure your OHV has a working spark arrester.

By using this US Forest Service Travel Map in conjunction with the official MVUM and by adhering to all rules, regulations, and ethical riding practices, you can enjoy a responsible and rewarding OHV adventure in the stunning Escalante District of Dixie National Forest.