BobSmith wrote:It's interesting that they're liberalising their rules. Thanks for the update!

But there's good news for winter hikers and climbers frustrated by the old Baxter winter-permit system. Things have changed, and the formerly rigid process of organizing an extended winter visit has been streamlined.

"Some of the old policies were not conducive to the type of trip experience visitors wanted," said Jean Hoekwater, a naturalist and 24-year veteran of Baxter State Park. "Our winter policies are now more user-friendly, and reflect the desire for people to enjoy the range of decision-making people should have in the wilderness."

The new policies are a product of many hours of discussion among park officials, and a response to public input that sought a more accessible park in winter.

"Backcountry users are more sophisticated now," Hoekwater noted, "and we wanted to make the appropriate changes that encouraged more people to get out and use the resource."

Paperwork for a winter permit has been significantly reduced. Registrants need only complete a two-page form outlining desired trip dates, party size, camp sites requested, leader information, emergency notification and payment. The park has reduced the administrative period for processing from 10 to seven days.

There is no longer a minimum group size, although groups are limited to 10 persons to mitigate the impact on the environment and other groups. Solo campers and climbers are now allowed, provided they complete a supplemental two-page form.

The list of required gear has changed as well. The list, which had become increasingly rigid and hampered experienced users, is now a recommendation and is provided for guidance.

"The gear list now is what we think is necessary to have a safe and successful trip," Hoekwater said. "We expect people to use common sense. And no amount of rules and regulations are a substitute for common sense."

Regarding weather, the park has decided not to get between users and the outdoors. Under the old code system for climbing, if the park determined it was too dangerous to venture out, that was the final word. Now the weather determination is a recommendation; it's not mandatory.

"We want the users to make the judgment call. It's a leadership decision," said Hoekwater. "We'll make a solid recommendation, but we won't keep you from going out."

This is a huge departure from past weather policy. As a trip leader, this means that you make the decision, and thus you and your group bear the responsibility that goes with it, understanding full well that search and rescue may be delayed or impossible.

"Baxter is a wilderness park, and when you enter that arena, we believe that judgment is a part of that experience," Hoekwater said.

Park staff are on hand to assist with winter trip planning, an important resource that should not be ignored. Do take advantage of this readily available wealth of knowledge and experience that can help make your trip safer and more enjoyable.