Suggestions from WTA
Here is an article from WTA with some great guidelines for hiking during these times. Thank you Bob Arper for sharing this with the group.
Hiking in the Time of Coronavirus
At Washington Trails Association, we know the immense value of community. During these challenging and uncertain times, we want to help take care of our community and the things we hold in common. As a nonprofit supported by hikers like you, we know the immense value of getting outside. We know the physical and mental benefits of being in nature are vital right now. However, we also know that, in order to protect our community and ourselves, we all need to be extremely thoughtful when and how we chose to leave our homes.
With all of that in mind, here are some suggestions to help you get outside and to do so responsibly. The situation is changing quickly, and we will update this page as things evolve. (For example, some of these recommendations might change under a shelter-in-place order.)
CHOOSING WHERE TO GO
Things are changing fast, and agencies may change their recommendations. Fresh air and outside time will be critical for all of us, especially right now. But take a community-centered approach to your outdoor time right now, and check current guidelines before getting outside. Consider the following:
Try to stay local, especially if you are coming from a major population center in the middle of an outbreak. In Washington, we are lucky to have so many trails and green spaces close to home, some of them in the middle of towns and cities. Let's all keep our rural neighbors safer by sticking close to home.
Try to look for lesser-traveled trails. And try to avoid trails where the main attraction is a viewpoint or other area that would serve as a likely gathering point for many people.
GETTING OUTSIDE SAFELY & HIKING RESPONSIBLY RIGHT NOW
Before you leave:
Before you head out, verify the area you are going to is open. Most neighborhood parks and green spaces will be open. Some other lands and facilities have already closed.
Plan on any ranger stations, park buildings, restrooms and facilities to be closed.
Getting in your car? Practice social distancing on your way to the trailhead. This is the rare time we'd advise against transit or carpooling.
Plan to hike with people you are already in contact with, such as your family or housemates. This is not the best time to meet up with a friend.
Before you go, wherever you're going, think ahead for what you'll need so you won't have to stop for supplies. If you do decide to travel to or between rural areas, it is especially important to plan ahead. Normally, we'd encourage you to spend money in small towns across the state, but not right now. Gas up before you go, bring all the food you need and be prepared to follow Leave No Trace Principles, including properly dealing with human waste.
Have a backup plan in mind, whether that is another trail or another time of day to grab some fresh air. If you arrive at a park or trailhead and things look crowded, come back later or try someplace new rather than put each other at risk. There's room for all of us. We got this, if we work together.
Finally, if you're sick, we're so sorry. Please stay home and take care of yourself — and protect other people you might encounter, no matter how hard you try to keep your distance.
On trail:
Give people space when you meet them on trail. That means in parking lots or other gathering areas, but it also means on the trail as well. When you see approaching hikers, look for a spot where you can get off trail and maintain 6 feet of distance. It may feel weird, but these are weird times and it's to keep everyone safe.
Respect any trail or facility closures. (And remember, have a backup plan before you leave, in case you arrive to find an area closed or crowded.)
Be extra cautious. Emergency responders are very busy. Please don't take any risks that might mean you need rescue or health care.
Avoid touching your face and be aware of surfaces that are likely to be touched by many people, such as railings.
Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer before you eat, and if you can, avoid sharing water bottles or snacks.
Pack out your trash and any toilet paper. That means taking it home with you. This is our advice any time, but land managers will be stretched right now. It will take all of us doing a little extra to keep our trails in good shape right now.
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