Featured Image Description: Rapid Responder Paola shares a post-storm trail photo she took when patrolling her route earlier this week.
We hope you have been keeping warm this winter season! Now that the storms have stopped, you might be planning your next outing to Forest Park. While a fresh coat of snow and ice on the forest looks simply magical, it also poses a hazard to your safety when walking the trails. Even now, as the last week of snow and ice continues to thaw, it is still important to practice safe recreation habits when enjoying the trails.
Check Before You Go
Make sure that you check local weather forecasts and trail conditions before you go. Winter weather conditions can lead to damaged trails and fallen trees and debris. Due to this, trails may need to be closed due to safety concerns and to allow Portland Parks & Recreation staff to clear debris and conduct repairs. You can view current trail closures on Portland Parks & Recreation’s website.
Prepare For Your Trip
Before venturing out into a winter wonderland make sure you are bundled up! Wear weather-appropriate clothing and bring whatever gear or equipment you might need out on the trails to be safe. Remember, it’s better to be safe than sorry!
Be Aware of Your Surroundings
Trees and branches can become weakened due to ice and snow weighing them down, especially in combination with the force of high winds. If you like to wear headphones, it might be best to leave them behind so you can hear when a branch breaks or a tree falls.
Additionally, keep an eye out while you walk and try to limit your time in the park after sunset. It is a lot easier to miss potential hazards like icy trails and fallen debris when it is dark outside.
Report Down Trees and Trail Hazards
If you come across a downed tree or other large trail hazards, please do not try to manage and remove them yourself, leave it to the professionals! Instead, we ask you to support our Rapid Responder team, a group of volunteers who patrol the trails of Forest Park for hazards, by helping report downed trees to Portland Parks & Recreation. You can also report downed trees to Portland Parks & Recreation at parktrails@portlandoregon.gov.
When you report a downed tree, please include any pictures, a description of the tree’s size, location details, or other information that you think might be helpful!
Pictured above is a picture of a downed tree we received a report for. Pictures can be very useful to illustrate what exactly was spotted, including potential damage and current conditions on the trail. Image provided by Matt S. who reported the tree.
Stay safe out there! If you’re interested in even more winter safety tips, you can check out Recreate Responsibly’s How to Recreate Responsibly: Winter Edition or Portland Parks & Recreation’s new article on winter tree emergencies.
If you want to support our work post-storm, consider volunteering at one of our upcoming restoration work parties in Forest Park or becoming a Forest Park Member to support our trail staff and help us manage our Rapid Response program.