As fall hunting seasons unfold across the country, especially in the West where many other recreationists continue visiting the outdoors, the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks has posted a “Nonhunters Guide to Staying Safe During Hunting Season.”
It’s a list of five tips for those who “still want to hike, bike or wander the woods.” The advice could easily apply to neighboring Idaho and Wyoming, Colorado, Utah, northern California, Oregon and Washington, and virtually everywhere there are popular hiking trails and campgrounds used by people wanting to see fall colors and enjoy a time of year when the wilds are much quieter and less crowded.
According to Montana FWP, here are the smart moves for nonhunters, and it is also a list of things active hunters should watch for.
1. The brighter, the better. If you’re not a hunter, you probably don’t have a ton of blaze orange in your closet, but it would be worth investing in a vest or at least a hat that sticks out in the woods. Also, for you dogwalkers, consider dressing up your four-legged friend with something bright, like a vest.
2. Stick to the beaten path. Trails aren’t just easier on your boots, they’re where hunters expect to see people. Off-trail bushwhacking? Maybe save it for spring.
3. Make some noise. Chat with your hiking buddy, sing to your dog or practice your whistling. The idea is to sound like a human, not a critter sneaking around. Making noise also helps minimize a surprise bear encounter.
4. Time it right. Hunters love sunrise and sunset. If you’d rather skip the overlap, head out mid-morning when the light is good and the coffee has kicked in.
5. Respect the signs. If an area is posted for hunting or temporarily closed, treat it like a “do not disturb” sign. Or if you get to a trailhead that’s full, maybe try another spot.
