We all try to practice TREAD Lightly principles, but do you even know what they are? I’ve always thought of them as Recreate Responsibly, stay on the trail, and keep our areas clean. And while those are good, they aren’t actually the T.R.E.A.D. Lightly principles. TREAD isn’t just a word; it’s an acronym for the principles.
- T = Travel Responsibly on designated roads, trails, and areas. This is part of staying on the trail, traveling only where four-wheel-drive vehicles are allowed, going over obstacles instead of around them, so we avoid widening the trail. Straddling ruts and washouts, crossing streams only at designated points, avoiding mud and soft terrain, and reducing wheel spin, essentially, driving appropriately. When winching, use best practices – tree savers, the proper winch, and good anchor points.
- R = Respect the Rights of Others. This includes other recreational users and private property owners, too. Learn trail etiquette, leave gates as you found them – open or closed. Ask permission if you aren’t sure you should cross property. Yield to those traveling uphill and with less power than you – including bikers, hikers, and horses. Be considerate in camp areas, don’t ride around or stir up dust around them. Keep your speeds down.
- E = Educate Yourself. Plan your trip; know the regulations around the areas you’ll be traveling. Be prepared with maps and skills so you aren’t creating a situation you can’t get out of. Know your weather forecast and plan accordingly. Bring your tools, supplies, and spares to prepare for any situation.
- A = Avoid Sensitive Areas. There are many sensitive habitats to avoid – meadows, shores, wetlands, living desert, and tundra. Do not disturb cryptobiotic crust, historical, archeological, or paleontological sites. Avoid wildlife by keeping your distance.
- D = Do Your Part. Model good behavior for others by practicing and being vocal about the principles of TREAD Lightly. Carry a trash bag and pick up what others left behind. Always pack out what you pack in. Wash your vehicle to avoid transporting species from one wheeling area to another.
When it comes to access, respectful access helps us retain open access. Take part in group activities to clean up. Mitigate problems on the trail, and most importantly, respect yourself and others. We hope to wheel with you on the trail.
