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Park
managers have determined that there is adequate snow cover for the
use of snowmobiles for traditional activities in all areas of the
1980 additions to Denali National Park and Preserve that are south
of the crest of the Alaska Range except for the park lands between
the Bull River and Windy Creek at the north end of Broad Pass near
the town of Cantwell. All other areas of the 1980 park additions
north of the crest of the Alaska Range remain closed to snowmobile
use for traditional activities due to inadequate snow cover. Riders
are reminded that all lands within the former Mount McKinley National
Park on both the north and the south sides of the Alaska Range are
closed to all snowmobile use by federal regulation. Even though
areas of the park and preserve are now open for use, it is the rider’s
responsibility to avoid locations where wind or topographic conditions
may have reduced snow depth and created situations where damage
to vegetation or soils could occur, or where vegetation is taller
than the protective snow cover. While there is enough snow cover
to allow use, riding conditions are still generally poor and potentially
dangerous due to recent high winds and the warmer than normal temperatures.
There are many areas of thin ice or open water and avalanche hazard
could be high due to wind crusts or ice layers in the snow pack.
It is important to avoid steep slopes, narrow valleys, and ravines.
Also, the generally warm winter temperatures this year mean that
many waterways could still be dangerous for travel and extreme caution
is advised. Winter weather in the Alaska Range can change very quickly
and become severe with temperatures well below zero and high winds.
Park rangers advise bringing survival gear on all trips into the
backcountry and to leave a copy of travel plans with friends or
relatives. Remember to assess local conditions before venturing
into the backcountry. Riders are also reminded that federal regulations
require that riders do not: Intentionally disturb or frighten wildlife.
Operate a snowmobile that makes excessive noise. Operate a snowmobile
without a headlamp and red tail lamp ½ hour before and after sunrise/sunset
or when persons and vehicles are not clearly visible for 500 feet.
Operate a snowmobile in excess of 45 miles per hour or racing. Snowmobile
operators must be at least 16 years of age unless accompanied and
supervised by a responsible person 21 years of age or older. The
supervising rider must keep the other rider in sight and may not
supervise more than one person at a time. Alaska State statutes
also require that snowmobiles be registered and numbered. Riders
must report accidents resulting in injury to or death of a person,
or property damage by the quickest means to park rangers. For current
weather information or questions about backcountry travel in Denali
National Park and Preserve, please call Park Headquarters at (907)
683-2294. -NPS-
Privacy
& Disclaimer
Author:Jane
Tranel
Last modified on: December 12, 2003
www.nps.gov/akso
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