One of the largest mountain goat herds in the state is located in the Uinta Mountains so what should you do to stay safe when recreating in their space? If you encounter a mountain goat while hiking or backpacking, the DWR has shared the following tips: Give them plenty of space (roughly 150 feet or more). Mountain goats will often stand their ground or charge you if you get too close. If you see a mountain goat coming down the trail you are on, turn around and head back down the trail to avoid getting too close to them. Like other big game animals, mountain goats can be especially aggressive toward dogs. Keep dogs leashed and under control at all times. It is against Utah law to allow dogs to chase or harass protected hoofed wildlife, like mountain goats. If a mountain goat begins approaching you, slowly back away and give it some distance. If it continues approaching, wave your arms and make loud noises to try and scare it away. Never feed a mountain goat or allow it to lick your skin. “Mountain goats can impale you with their horns, so you don’t want to risk coming into contact with one,” shares Species Coordinator Rusty Robinson. “Remember that they are wild animals, so always give them plenty of space. They are found in some pretty extreme terrain, so you don’t want to risk getting too close to one while on the edge of a cliff. Be aware of your surroundings, stay alert and don’t put yourself in those situations. If you need to turn around and cut your hike short, do it.” Find more safety tips at www.WildAwareUtah.org.
