Two teenagers were ticketed after hiking off-trail in a dangerous area and uploading a video of their expedition to YouTube.
The couple, aged 18 and 19, spent a day Zoar Valley Multiple Use Area (MUA), New York, known for its beautiful and rugged landscapes. The scenery is breathtaking, but it is also potentially dangerous, and the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) warns visitors to never leave marked trails.
“The MUA contains hazards associated with rocks, steep slopes, cliffs and flowing water,” explains the DEC. “Safe access to the gorge and creek is only from the Forty Road parking lot. There are no permitted, safe trails to access Cattaraugus Creek from the Erie County side or from the town of Otto , part of the Cattaraugus County property.”
As local media WIBX950 reports, the teens shared a video of themselves ignoring these rules and hiking off-trail within 15 feet of the DEC cliff edges. Forest rangers were alerted and issued tickets to the two young people.
Protect yourself
If you want to explore the MUA, there are several options: Valentine's Day Flats Trailwhich is a popular two-mile round trip route for bird watching, fishing and running, and the four-mile course Holcomb Trail, Pond Trail, Holcomb Pond Loop, and Ross Pond Loop route, which tends to be quieter even during rush hour. Both are well signposted and easy to follow.
The DEC encourages all hikers to log in and out of trail logs so officials can make sure everyone is present, follow all safety tips, pay attention to signs, and practice leaves no trace principles when exploring the region.
