JACKSON, Wyo. – As daytime highs finally start looking a bit more like summer around the valley, a favorite pastime is also heating up: floating the creeks.
Flat Creek floating has come with its challenges as private property rights sometimes become an issue as do noise complaints.
Fish Creek Road has become more and more popular in recent years. This float, however, comes with parking issues.
Complaints have been coming into the Sheriff’s Office about parking along Fish Creek Road.
The Sheriff’s Office is asking floaters to park only in areas that allow vehicles to be completely off the roadway. No part of the vehicle may be in the traveled (paved) portion the road. Also, floaters should always park facing the correct direction.
“The narrowing of an already very narrow road creates a safety issue for motorists and other non-motorized recreational users of the roadway,” says Sgt. Todd Stanyon. “Citations have been issued and vehicles parked in a hazardous location may be towed.”
Floaters also need to be respectful of private property when putting in or taking out. There is only one short stretch of the creek that is accessible to the public. This is via US Forest Service property (see map). There is no other legal public access to Fish Creek.
Littering is another common complaint the Sheriff’s Office receives.
“Please pack out anything you take with you into the creek,” Stanyon reminds floaters. “Have fun and be safe!”
