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Show K8 Arape'en Trail Guide July 2003 Arapeen Certain questions about travel on the Arapeen Trail, in the San Rafael Swell and other trail systems are common in the minds of those planning a trip and are not familiar with East Central Utah. Here is information relating to questions often asked. Some visitors are astonished at the massive nature of the trail system and the remoteness of some of the areas. Because of this some have expressed real concern about encountering wildhfe along the trail. Though there are some wild animals, they are extremely wary of humans, unless they are protecting their young. Some species of wildlife are fairly common and encountering these can significantly enhance the experience of the Arapeen trail. Mule deer are common to the area and can be seen on any part of the trail, particularly at dusk. The Manti-LaSNational Forest is also home to large herds of elk and in the San Rafael Sw ell you may find desert bighorn sheep. At times the deer and bighorn sheep will stand and wratch you long enough for you to get your camera out for pictures. Elk are more wary, so when you spot them its best to already have the camera ready. To view or photograph these animals, stop your ATV but leave the engine running al Jamboree Etiquette ATV and remain on the vehicle. Changes in sound or sudden movement will startle the animals. Chasingwildlife is illegal because it stresses them and could lead to their death. The area around the Arapeen ATV Trail is a popular wintering area for both golden and bald eagles. Some remain year round, so you may see one of these majestic birds as you travel along the trail. Other animals often seen along the trail include coyotes, ground squirrels, chipmunks and numerous speciesof song birds. The best way to shoot any of these wildlife is with the camera. Above all, do not harass the wildlife, remember this is their habitat and you are only a visitor. Skunks, rattlesnakes and badgers are also present in the area. If you encounter one in the middle of the trail, common sense should tell you to stay your distance until it decides to leave or you can find a safe route around. Then you can use the encounter to spice up the description of the trip to the folks back home. Most of the trail system is on public lands where ranchers have permits to graze cattle and sheep. Consequently, you may see them on any part of the trail. They are completely harmless. When encountering cows or sheep simply reduce your speed and continue driving. They will get out of the way. Remember that these cows and sheep belong to someone so do not harass them unnecessarily. There are gates along the trail separating pastures or land ownerships. Always leave these gates as you find them; open if you find them so, or closed if they were closed when you arrived. Some area of the forest and BLM are closed or restricted to motorized travel to protect wildlife habitat, watershed conditions or other recreational opportunities. When riding, remember not to trespass on private property and stay on designated trails. Remember, that riding on trails on public lands is a privilege that is already being closely scrutinized by environmentalists, politicians and land managers. If you stay on designated trails, tread lightly, carry out any garbage and generally leave the land as you found it, you will help to preserve your right to ride on public lands. There are several factors that should be considered due to the high elevation of the trails. Elevations along the trails range from 5,000 to 11,000 feet above sea level. Because of the elevation and low oxygen levels, people with respiratory problems or heart conditions should consult a doctor before leaving home. Also, people coming directly from near sea level must be aware that their physical stamina will be affected until they become acclimatized. Another result of the trails high elevations is temperature fluctuations, first, with over a mile of relief between high and low points, there can be a 20 to 30 degree temperature difference along the trail. Second, it is common to have a 40 degree temperature change from morning to night. Along with these temperature fluctuations is the fact that it never really gets too warm at 1 1,000 feet. As a result you should always carry wrarm clothing even if the weather appears mild at the start of the ride. You should also make sure your ATV is properly jetted for this altitude. is the key to a successful trip. Once you embark on the trail, you are in a different world with few support services. It is important that you have everything you might need. This includes having enough fuel, tire repair and other minor repair supplies to get from one filling station to the next. The trail system is so extensive that even though there may be hundreds of people riding the trail at the same time, you may go for hours and even all day without meeting anyone. Pre-planni- ng ARIES LUNCH Introducing New Reuben Sandwich with fries & drink DINNER Ribeye Steak & Popcorn We have a wide selection of delicious food and Shrimp Breakfast choices include: Breakfast Pizzas and Burritos, Breakfast soup, salad, roll & potato $1 99 Come in & check out our new low prices 0 86 East 100 South drinks for you to enjoy. Croissant Sandwiches, Biscuits Sandwiches, Juices and Coffees Lunch, Dinner or Anytime: Hamburgers, Cheeseburgers, Chicken Sandwiches, Deli Sandwiches, Fries (regular and curly), English Chips, Onion Rings, Burritos, Hot Dogs, Kielbasa Sandwiches, Pizza, Eggrolls, Cheese Sticks, Pretzels, Steak Tenders, Tamales, Soft Drinks and more! 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