Clearwater National Forest 2005 Travel Guide available

The 2005 edition of the Clearwater National Forest's Travel Guide is now available, free-of-charge, from any Clearwater National Forest office.

According to Forest Supervisor Tom Reilly, the guide is a "must-have" for any visitor who plans to drive on Forest Service roads or trails. "This guide provides the details that simply can't be displayed on our small-scale map," he explained.

The Travel Guide can be used in combination with the forest visitor map to help recreationists plan a trip on the Clearwater National Forest. It shows all the roads, trails, and areas that have some type of travel restriction. The booklet also explains which types of vehicles are restricted and what time of year each restriction is in effect.

Previously the Travel Guide displayed only roads or trails with some type of restriction. This latest version of the Guide displays the entire designated road and trail system for the Clearwater National Forest.

Motor vehicle users are always encouraged to use designated roads and trails to avoid damage to soils and vegetation. The Travel Guide also displays certain sensitive areas like the Lolo Trail Historic Corridor where vehicles must stay on designated routes.

In addition, the booklet includes maps of several road and trail systems that are recommended for travel with motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs).

Reilly explained that the purpose of travel restrictions is not to keep people out of the Forest. "In many cases the requirements are necessary to protect road and trail surfaces during wet weather. They are also vital to protect the many resources-clean water, wildlife, and scenery-that people come to the Forest to enjoy," he added.

The Clearwater National Forest Plan is also undergoing revision and it will guide land uses, including motorized uses, for the next 15 years.

The 2005 Travel Guide is available on the Clearwater National Forest website at: http://www.fs.fed.us/r1/clearwater.htm Click on Visitor Information.

For additional information, or to receive a copy of the The 2005 Travel Guide, contact any Clearwater National Forest ranger station or the supervisor's office at (208)476-8279.