Forced to Give Up the Sounds of Nature

Re “No Happy Trail in Desert Tale,” March 25: The problem with motorized vehicles on hiking trails and in other wilderness areas is that they are noisy, and noise is antithetical to the wilderness experience. One trail bike can ruin that experience for anyone within earshot. The problems of damage to trails, pollution and aggressive behavior pale in comparison to this one fact.

As a longtime hiker, I am discouraged and depressed by the proliferation of this selfish behavior, yet I know that I will lose the battle for the preservation of noise-free hiking. Why? Because bikes are fun, easy and being sold in rapidly increasing numbers -- and I’m outnumbered. I only wish there were an equitable solution, but the fact is, hiking trails and these vehicles are incompatible.

Is there room for all of us? Only if I give up the sounds of nature.

Bill Morosi

Big Bear Lake