Winter officially begins on December 21st and comes with an important reminder to drive with extra care.
The Oregon Department of Transportation has some excellent tips to keep in mind when using GPS to navigate this winter.
Most navigation tools don’t take current road or weather conditions into consideration. They may direct you onto remote roads that are neither maintained or passible in all weather conditions.
Here are a few tips to consider:
What you can do:
- Be aware that the app on your phone or in your GPS device might not have the latest information. Don’t follow it blindly!
- Use TripCheck.com (available online and on your phone) before you go to get the latest on state road conditions. You can also call 511.
- Remember, in winter conditions (or in summer’s fire season), roads can be impassable, so use common sense.
- If you are not familiar with an area and current road conditions, stay on state roads and don’t attempt detours onto roads you don’t know.
- Alter your travel plans. If you are not sure of the route and conditions your device directs you to, ask local folks for information and consult a map. It is better to stay the night in town rather than be stuck on a remote road in the middle of nowhere.
What ODOT will do:
- ODOT crews work continually to keep state highways safe, but during certain conditions, such as blowing snow and freezing temperatures, you may want to avoid travel altogether.
- ODOT will issue media flash alerts if roads are closed. These will be updated continually on TripCheck.com.
Using GPS in winter requires caution, as apps often don’t account for deep snow or unmaintained roads, potentially directing you to impassable routes; always check real-time conditions (like TripCheck.com or call 511), stay on main roads if unfamiliar, carry a map/compass as backup, and consider battery life and signal strength issues.
Driving/Road Travel Tips
- Don’t Trust Blindly: GPS might route you onto closed, unplowed, or dangerous backroads, even sending trucks where they aren’t allowed.
- Verify Conditions: Before you go, check official sources like Oregon’s TripCheck.com or call 511 for the latest road status and closures.
- Stay on Main Roads: Stick to state-maintained highways and avoid detours onto unknown, remote county roads during storms.
- Use Common Sense: If a route looks questionable or your GPS takes you somewhere unexpected, use judgment and don’t proceed.
Outdoor/Hiking Tips
- Bring a Backup: Always carry a physical map and compass; snow can easily obscure trails and landmarks.
- Protect Your Device: Keep GPS devices and phones warm (e.g., inside a jacket pocket) to preserve battery, and consider a power bank.
- Be Prepared for Signal Loss: Snow and ice can sometimes slightly weaken signals; thick ice on antennas can reduce accuracy.
- Know Your Terrain: Use topographical features (contours) on your map/GPS, as these don’t change in winter.