Is it a car? Is it a truck? Is it a…cow? In Baker, you are likely to encounter many different moving things on the backroads and highways that connect our communities. As you drive and explore, we encourage you to take your time, exercise caution, and be patient when you encounter something that may slow you down. Chances are you may need to make room or wait for these:
Cows
This is open range country. Which means cattle can freely roam public lands. In the summer, cattle will be herded to higher, cooler ground, so don’t be surprise if you encounter a cow or two (or even a whole herd) on high forest service roads in the mountains. In the spring, you may find roads blocked by ranchers driving their herds to these different grazing locations. Be patient, and don’t try to drive through or around the herd! You are liable for injury or death of a rancher’s cattle the same as if you had damaged someone else’s vehicle.
Livestock Trailers
Being part of the Working West means transporting livestock like cows and horses in trailers. These are cumbersome to drive because of their size, and navigating twisty roads through the mountains and canyons makes things more difficult. Especially around curves, please be mindful that a trailer may be approaching from the other direction around the curve. If you take the curve too tightly, you may cause the trailer to brake suddenly, which can cause stress and injury to the livestock being transported. Be considerate, and take it slow!
Tractors and Farm Equipment
Another part of the Work West is farm equipment. Tractors need to move from field to field and need to travel main roads to do so. They move slowly and take up space. If you find yourself behind a tractor or passing one in the opposite direction, be patient! Pass with care only when legal and there is no oncoming traffic.
Bicycles
Baker is cycling heaven. While cyclists will often find long stretches of scenic roads with few or no vehicles, everyone should drive and ride with safety in mind. Remember that cyclists share the road. Give them space and pass with car only when legal and there is no oncoming traffic.
Motorcycles
With some of the best riding routes around, expect to come across motorcyclists enjoying the road and the view. Keep your distance and allow passing when it’s legal to do so.
Deer and wildlife
Depending where you’re visiting from, this may be obvious. But in the vast open valleys and dense forests across Baker, you will very likely encounter deer and potentially other animals like pheasant, small mammals, and even larger ones like elk or bear. Drive slowly, especially on forest roads, and be vigilant at dawn and dusk when wildlife are most active. If you encounter wildlife, do not approach or harass it! Keep your distance and be respectful.