Hikers no longer have to just share the trails with bikers. With hunting season underway, recreationalists are being urged to be especially aware this fall.

Muzzle loader hunting is currently underway with bull elk and deer hunting season beginning Oct. 8 and lasting until the end of the month.

“The early season hunting with bows and muzzles is not as much of a problem for hikers because the hunters have to be really close to the animals,” said Charlie Sturgis, executive director of the Mountain Trails Foundation. “Most trail systems on the West Side of the county generally have no hunting near them. But some trails pass through private land, like the Mid-Mountain Trail, and then hunting could possibly happen.”

Sturgis added that private landowners in the Basin have not historically issued hunting permits for their land.

“It is safe to be out there enjoying the wonderful fall during hunting season,” said Mark Hadley with the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources. “People just need to be more alert.”

Hadley and Sturgis recommend hikers wear bright colors when in the woods to make themselves visible to hunters.

“Someone can buy a hunter-orange light-weight vest at any sporting goods store for really cheap,” said Hadley. “It is what the hunters wear and it makes a hiker super visible. A non-hunter being injured during hunting season is very rare. People should not feel like they have to turn around or stop hiking in an area just because hunting is taking place.”

Sturgis also recommends hikers make noise to alert hunters to their presence.

“Talk a lot or wear a bell. I know it can be annoying, but it will help make your presence known,” he said.

Some popular hunting spots in the region include the Uinta Mountains and near Strawberry Reservoir.

Sturgis said the only poaching problem that has been brought to his attention so far is hunters being reported in Round Valley.

“Our officers can’t be everywhere at once,” said Hadley. “We need the public’s help to protect wildlife and strongly encourage everyone to keep their eyes open and call our turn-in-a-poacher hotline if they see anything suspicious or illegal.”

The DWR’s hotline is staffed 24 hours a day and can be reached at (800) 662-3337.