Tips for Hiking or Running During the Pandemic
Tips for Hiking or Running During the Pandemic
Some of us are able to go out for a hike or a neighborhood walk while under a stay-at-home order. I have been hiking while practicing social distancing and other precautions for several weeks now. Here are some tips from my experiences:
- First check the regulations in your state and city before researching where to head.
- Refresh yourself on social distancing rules and whether wearing a mask is required.
- Be prepared to step to the side. When walking with partner, walk in single file if you can to make it easier to pass other hikers at the appropriate distance.
- Research preserves BEFORE going out to make sure they are open and accessible.
- If the preserve you have chosen looks too busy, skip it and go to another if you have the option. Do a list of several in a similar location.
- Bathrooms will not be open. So, keep this in mind and do not bite off more than you can choose distance wise! Stay closer to home.
- Remember not to touch things while hiking. Some of these motions are so natural that we forget.
- If you are hiking with kids, keep them close so that it is easier to maintain the appropriate distance.
- Do not walk several people abreast. It makes it difficult for other hikers to move over adequately.
- Dress appropriately for the weather and terrain. Also, I would wear hiking shoes or others that can take the mud in case you have to walk off the trail to move away from other people.
- Don’t forget your normal hiking items like sunscreen, bug spray, water and a snack.
- Do not leave gloves and masks in the preserve! They will harm the environment.
- Take out what you take in still applies.
- Be mindful and try not to make assumptions about a couple or the structure of a family. I have heard several times this week of walkers calling out families for not following social distancing when they actually are families living together.
- Pause when you safely can and absorb the scene. Nature is excellent for easing anxiety, calming and igniting creativity. Enjoy!
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