Winter Is Here! – Shaun Howard

Nearly a year ago Shaun Howard, Jeffco Open Space Ranger lead, first wrote this post to help all the Open Space Park visitors understand a little more about how to enjoy winter activities in the Parks. It’s time to republish as a reminder, because our parks are “primitive” parks. Don’t expect the trails to be groomed for you. Be prepared for any type of weather, especially as you gain in elevation, and know before you go.

Temps have dropped and winter winds lick the landscape of the Jeffco Parks. Although the winter season has arrived, the parks are still great places to visit. Read on for essential winter safety tips.

Parking: Many believe winter is the “off” season in our parks. While visitor numbers may be less, on sunny winter days expect people to want to enjoy the outdoors. As with other seasons, if you find a full lot, be patient and wait for a legal parking spot, or better yet, look for less busy parks by downloading the mobile Lot Spot App https://www.jeffco.us/964/Parks. Additionally, winter storms may make park roads and lots impassable. Avoid parks during snowstorms. Here are some tips if you arrive at a parking lot covered in snow:

• Lots may not have yet been plowed. Have good snow tires. Many park roads are on hills and vehicles often get stuck.
• Use respectful etiquette while staff are plowing. If you encounter a plow, give it room. A backing plow is likely to not see your vehicle. Try to park near other cars, so the plow can clear the rest of the lot.

Wildlife: The winter season is an especially difficult season for wildlife. It’s hard staying warm. When resources are scarce in winter, wildlife must conserve energy to survive, find food and stay warm. Please give wildlife distance, and especially leash your dog! Stress from off-leash dogs can cause wildlife to burn excessive calories which can end their lives. Additionally, look out for wildlife on roadways. With shorter days, vehicle collisions increase. Look for movement and eye-shine on the side of the road. If you see one deer/elk, more are in the area. Rather than flee, expect them to run in front of your car in a flurry of panic. Lastly, park curfew is an hour before sunrise and an hour after sunset. Our wildlife are used to seeing visitors during the day. Give wildlife a break and respect park curfew hours. Additionally, risk of injury to you, and emergency responders increases greatly after dark. Plan accordingly. Be safe and respect wildlife, start visits early and be out of the park before sundown.

Dogs: Like the hot, dog days of summer, winter can also have safety impacts on dogs. Prevent dogs from running off by leashing them. Additionally, many dogs are not built for winter temps or icy trail conditions. Leave the dog at home during extreme conditions. For milder winter days, booties or salves that protect the dog’s feet are a must. As always, even in colder temps, make sure you and your dog are well hydrated. Bring water for both of you, and be sure to take breaks to drink.

Trail Conditions: Winter trails can range from icy to muddy. Deeper snow creates a harder workout while hiking. Additionally, snow-covered trails are harder to delineate. Bring a map and know where the trail is and do your best to prevent eventual vegetation damage by staying on the trail. Assume trails will be icy until spring. In icy conditions, trails are nearly impossible to negotiate safely. Wear micro-spikes or other traction devices. Front Range winters vacillate between warm to snowy. You might encounter muddy conditions when the trails melt in between storms. If you do, stick to the trail. Going off trail to avoid the mud increases vegetation damage and the unnecessary widening of trails. Remember, these boots were made for walkin’… through mud too!

Are you prepared? Park emergencies often occur from lack of preparation. For any venture in the Jeffco Open Space Parks, being prepared helps make a safer and enjoyable experience. Pack your bag with the 10 Essentials:

1. Map/Compass
2. Extra clothing (dress in layers, have a water repellent layer)
3. Extra food
4. Extra water (for both you and your dog)
5. Sun protection
6. Flashlight/headlamp (don’t rely on phone flashlight as phone batteries drain quickly, especially in the cold)
7. First aid kit
8. Matches/lighter (Be careful with fire and use ONLY if it’s an emergency and you need to stay warm overnight).
9. Tools or repair kit for any gear you are bringing (I use a multi-tool)
10. Emergency shelter (emergency blankets or even plastic bags make great emergency shelters)

I hope you take the opportunity to enjoy our Open Space Parks in winter! They truly are spectacular places to visit! Happy Trails!

Shaun Howard, Ranger Lead
Jeffco Open Space
303-271-5909

Miss Mountain Manners extends great thanks to Shaun Howard for her hard work and wise words on how to deal with winter weather in our beloved Open Space Parks.  And as always, fellow Park visitors, stay safe.