Jasper Mountain Reserve - Hiking Trail, Pond, Campground Use & Fire Safety Waiver of Liability
I, the undersigned, and all family members and/or friends of my party (as applicable) hereby acknowledge and agree to the following terms and conditions in consideration for being permitted to use the hiking trails, pond access points, designated campground, and fire pit areas within Jasper Mountain Reserve. The property is privately owned by Hartmut Stecher (“OWNER”) and leased by Jasper Mountain Reserve, a WA State incorporated non-profit corporation, which operates and maintains the trails, ponds, and camping areas.
Assumption of Risk: I understand and acknowledge that hiking, pond activities, camping, and fire pit use involve inherent risks, including but not limited to slips, trips, falls, drowning, waterborne illness, wildlife encounters, weather extremes, burns, smoke inhalation, ground collapse beneath pond entrances, unstable logs, and other hazards associated with outdoor recreation. I voluntarily assume all such risks for myself and all members of my party.
Campfire Responsibility & Fire Restrictions
I understand that Columbia County (and the State of Washington under WA DNR authority) may issue burn restrictions or complete burn bans at any time, sometimes daily, affecting all public, private, state, and DNR-protected lands. It is my sole responsibility to verify current fire restrictions via the WA DNR Burn Portal or other applicable sources before igniting any fire.
I acknowledge that failure to comply with applicable fire restrictions, or any negligent use of fire by me or anyone in my party (including unattended fires, improper extinguishing, or use of prohibited materials), is a violation of WA DNR regulations.
I accept full financial and legal responsibility for any wildfire, forest fire, grass fire, smoke damage, property damage, cleanup, firefighting, or suppression costs resulting from my or my party's actions. This includes any criminal or civil penalties imposed by county, state, or federal authorities.
Release of Liability: I hereby release, waive, discharge, and covenant not to sue the OWNER or Jasper Mountain Reserve, its employees, agents, and representatives (collectively “JMR”), from any and all liability, claims, demands, actions, or causes of action whatsoever arising out of or related to any loss, damage, or injury—including death—that may occur during the use of hiking trails, ponds, campground, or fire pit areas, including incidents involving fires, fire restrictions, or fire-related negligence, whether caused by the negligence of the OWNER or JMR or otherwise.
Indemnification: I agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless the OWNER and JMR from any liabilities, losses, damages, claims, or financial obligations (including attorney fees and suppression costs) incurred by them as a result of my or my party’s actions in using the trails, ponds, campground, or fire pit, including those arising from violations of fire restrictions or negligent fire behavior.
Medical Treatment: In the event of injury or a medical emergency on the property, including fire-related injuries, I am responsible for seeking and consenting to medical treatment for myself and my party and for all associated costs.
Acknowledgment of Understanding: I confirm that I have read, understand, and voluntarily agree to this comprehensive waiver of liability. I recognize that I am relinquishing substantial legal rights, including my right to sue, and I freely and voluntarily accept these terms for myself and all members of my party.