Winter Driving on Forest Service Roads (Oregon)
Media Contact: Jennifer O’Leary (503) 854-4210; Cell (503) 298-8190
Springfield, OR – Visitors to the Willamette National Forest will encounter a wide range of driving conditions over the next few months. An important reminder at this time of year is that Forest Service roads are not maintained for winter travel. Many roads, especially those in higher elevations, become impassable due to ice and snow.
The following tips can help you prepare for a safe visit:
- Plan for the unexpected
- Check the latest road and weather conditions
- Let someone know where you’re going
- Carry an emergency kit in your vehicle
“Winter is a wonderful time to explore the forest, especially if you like to snowmobile, ski, or snowshoe. We want to ensure that visitors are aware of the important safety tips that will help them enjoy their visit,” says Stacey Forson, Assistant Recreation Staff Officer for the Willamette National Forest.
Weather can change quickly, particularly in high elevations. Good snow tires, a 4-wheel drive vehicle, and chains are advised when driving in winter conditions. Don’t forget to fuel up at the beginning of the trip.
Travelers should be prepared to spend long periods of time in the car. Blankets or sleeping bags, warm clothes, a snow shovel, water, food and other necessities are recommended as part of a complete vehicle emergency kit.
Many Forest Service roads are single-lane, winding, gravel roads with limited visibility. These and popular double-lane, paved roads such as Forest Road 19, Forest Road 21, and Forest Road 46 are not plowed for winter travel. Even a few inches of snow can obscure ice and soft shoulders; always adjust your speed to the current conditions. As a general rule, drive at speeds that allow you to stop in half the visible road distance ahead of you.
Although GPS systems are useful tools for navigating forest roads, they cannot always be relied on to provide the safest routes based on current conditions. Keep in mind that cell phones and GPS systems may not work in remote areas.
Visit or call your local Ranger District office for the latest updates regarding weather, including snow levels, and road conditions. Current conditions are also provided on the Willamette National Forest website at http://www.fs.fed.us/r6/willamette/general/conditions/index.html.
For regular updates regarding road and weather conditions on state highways that serve as mountain passes visit Tripcheck, offered by Oregon Department of Transportation, at www.tripcheck.com.
For more information please contact the closest Ranger District office.
http://www.fs.fed.us/r6/willamette/newsandevents/news/2009newsarchives/091120winter-driving.html
