Snowmass Trail Talk: No dogs on ski trails
Snowmass Village Parks and Trails Manager
Editor’s note: The Snowmass Sun and the Town of Snowmass Parks and Trails department have partnered to launch its “Trail Talks” series that will explore trail issues, etiquette and rules for shared trail-use in the village.
Snowmass is a dog-friendly town where dogs are welcome to play and socialize under the proper supervision of their guardian. Walking and enjoying the Town parks and trails with your dog are privileges for dogs and humans alike.
In winter months, this privilege is expanded with the Labrador Loop on the Snowmass Club Golf Course. Labrador Lane is the loop on the Snowmass Golf Course that is open to you and your dog on a leash, and we ask that to adhere to the “ski-only trails. Aspen Nordic provides this service to our community by keeping this loop groomed and walkable and it is important to adhere to their rules on groomed paths.
Q: What is the problem with skiers and dog walkers?
A: Dog walkers create divots in the groomed path, which refreeze and are dangerous for skiing.
A: Dogs at large on groomed paths can be a dangerous situation for skier-dog collisions.
A: Dog poop on trails creates hazards for the skier and complications for the groomers.
Remember: Not everyone loves dogs.
Q: What is the law?
A: Dogs running at large prohibited. It shall be unlawful for any owner, possessor or person who keeps a dog to permit the same to run at large within the Town. A dog shall be deemed to be running at large when it is off or away from the premise of the owner, possessor or keeper thereof or on any property accessible by the public and is not under the direct control of such owner, possessor or keeper by a leash no longer than 10 feet in length or within a vehicle or other confinement.
Fortunately, there are other alternatives for dog-walkers. Check out the Town Paved Recreation Paths; they are groomed and can make a great winter outing.
Owl Creek Summer Recreation Path (West of Tom Blake Trail)
Brush Creek Recreation Path — Recreation Center to Lot 4
Melton Trail
Stark’s Trail
Stop by the Nordic Center or the Town of Snowmass Recreation Center for a map or check out Aspen Nordic trail maps online at aspennordic.com. If you have additional questions regarding Animal Services contact 970-923-5330 or Parks and Trails at 970-922-2249.
Storytellers sought for ‘Voices of the Collective’
Storytellers are invited to be part of a Live Storytelling event taking place from 6 to 8 p.m. on Sunday, July 23 at The Collective in Snowmass.
