Outdoor Winter Fun
Greentips: January 2005
For those who enjoy the outdoors, winter can be an opportunity to enjoy the unmatched peace and beauty of a snow-covered landscape. Preserving the quiet and pristine qualities of America’s winter wonderlands, however, requires choosing a low-impact means of access—whether you’re looking to explore the backcountry or just your local woods.
Many people are already familiar with concerns related to the use of snowmobiles. Studies by the Environmental Protection Agency, for example, indicate that off-road vehicles such as snowmobiles—owing to their inefficient engines and the looser environmental regulations governing off-road vehicles—can emit as much pollution in one hour as nearly 100 automobiles operating for the same amount of time! In addition, the sound of a single snowmobile can be heard up to 20 miles away.
| Snowmobiles can emit as much pollution in one hour as nearly 100 automobiles operating for the same amount of time! |
The resulting air and noise pollution can have a significant impact on local wildlife and even public health. Snowmobiles are a particular concern in areas such as Yellowstone National Park, where recent regulatory changes by the Bush administration now permit 720 snowmobiles per day—nearly three times the limit of previous years.
If you already own a snowmobile, be sure to follow local rules and regulations regarding its use, and stay on clearly marked trails to help protect wildlife. And if you’re still planning on buying a snowmobile despite the concerns described here, at least consider purchasing a model with a four-stroke engine. These engines burn fuel more efficiently than two-stroke engines, resulting in fewer emissions and better mileage.
For an outdoor adventure this winter that minimizes your impact on the environment, consider one of these activities:
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Skiing. Downhill skiing affords dramatic views, but cross-country skiing on established trails offers a more leisurely way of admiring the scenery and local wildlife. Even if you don’t live near any mountains, you can cross-country ski on neighborhood paths or in nearby parks.
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Hiking and snowshoeing. Some backcountry trails are open during the winter months; refer to a hiking guide or call ahead to find out whether access roads are open. Snowshoeing is also an option on most cross-country ski trails.
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Guided tours. Many national parks offer tours using dog sleds or snow coaches. These vehicles—vans that have had their wheels replaced with large rubber treads—offer a smooth, quiet ride and are less polluting and disruptive than snowmobiles or other off-road vehicles.
