Utah's Rifle Deer Hunt Begins Saturday

Outdoor enthusiasts need to be aware that Utah's rifle deer hunt begins Saturday. (The season runs Oct. 19-27.) It is Utah's most popular hunting season and there will be thousands of hunters tramping around our mountains and forested areas.

Hunters need to be aware that Forest Service campgrounds are still closed, as of this writing. Today's news says negations are underway and the government shutdown may end soon. Watch the news for the latest details.

Non-hunters need to be aware the mountain roads will be busy in popular hunting areas. If you are hiking or fishing in mountain areas, were orange and pay attention to stay safe.

Our National Parks and State Parks are closed to hunting. Few deer live around our low-elevation desert playgrounds and so they do not attract many hunters.

Hunters and non-hunters alike should not hesitate to get out and the outdoors during the coming weeks. Just be courteous, ethical and follow safety rules.

Utah's Division of Wildlife Resources offers these tips for deer hunters. Hunters should also read up on big game hunting rules.

Everyone should watch the weather. We're already had cold storms that have dumped snow at higher elevations, and the weather looks to be unsettled later this week.