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Snowmass trail talks: skiers vs. dog walkers

Town of Snowmass Parks and Trails Department
Special to the Snowmass Sun

Editor’s note: The Snowmass Sun and the town of Snowmass Parks and Trails Department have partnered to launch “Trail Talks,” a bi-weekly series that will explore trail issues, etiquette and rules for shared trail-use in the village.

The dogs of Snowmass Village have it made. We are 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. Aspen Nordic Center provides this loop as a free service to our community by keeping this loop groomed and walkable, and it is important to adhere to their rules on groomed paths. This means keeping your dog on a leash and not walking on ski-only trails.



Q: What is the problem with skiers and dog walkers?

A: Dog walkers create divots in the groomed path, which re-freeze and are dangerous for skiing.




Dogs at large on groomed paths can be a dangerous situation for skier dog collisions.

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 are 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 alternatives for dog-walkers on town-groomed paths:

• Owl Creek Summer Recreation Path (West of Tom Blake Trail)

• Brush Creek Recreation Path Recreation Center to Lot 4

• Melton Trail

If you have any questions regarding animal services, please call 970-923-5330 or the parks and trails manager at 970-922-2249. Also check out Aspen Nordic trail maps at AspenNordic.com.

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