Warren County asks hikers, walkers to ‘stop the spread’ when outdoors
Spring is a great time to get outdoors, and regular exercise is an important part of a healthy lifestyle.
Getting outdoors during a global pandemic makes hiking, walking and biking safely and responsibly a bit more challenging, however.
Warren County is joining with the state Department of Environmental Conservation in asking that those who are venturing out onto the trails or into the woods to do so safely to avoid potential spread of COVID-19 at trailheads and mountain summits. We are asking for a #TrailsPledgeWarrenCounty to be safe and smart outdoors during this ongoing outbreak. Educational signs are going up at trailheads around the county.
“We know and appreciate the benefits of exploring the outdoors, enjoying fresh air and appreciating the beauty of our natural resources,” said Frank Thomas, chairman of the Warren County Board of Supervisors. “Warren County invites you to do so safely to protect yourself, your fellow adventurers, and the public safety officers who are looking out for all of us. Please recreate using the guidelines we are issuing today.”
Warren County officials asks that visitors to local trails:
- Stay local and keep visits short;
- Visit in small groups limited to immediate household members;
- Maintain distance from others while in places where people tend to congregate, such as parking lots, trailheads, and scenic overlooks;
- Avoid games and activities that require close contact, such as basketball, football, or soccer;
- Avoid playground equipment like slides and swings and other frequently touched surfaces; note that most local playgrounds are closed.
- Do not share equipment, such as bicycles, helmets, balls, or Frisbees;
- If you arrive at a park and crowds are forming, choose a different park, a different trail, or return another time/day to visit; and
- If parking lots are full, please do not park along roadsides or other undesignated areas. To protect your safety and that of others, please choose a different area to visit, or return another time or day when parking is available.
- Those over 70 or with compromised immune systems, or who are ill, should avoid going to public areas until further notice.
- Share your local safe hiking/biking on social media with the hashtag #TrailsPledgeWarrenCounty to show your support!
When planning to go outdoors, take time to find a place to go near home where you won’t find crowds. The DEC and Warren County have a host of online resources to peruse, including Warren County’s online “Recreation Mapper” program.
Taking precautions and doing your part to avoid others even while outdoors will help bring this outbreak under control more quickly, so we can fully enjoy our trails again in the future!