By Christine Martens
Hiking has become wildly popular since the onset of COVID-19 and the ensuing restrictions on our lives. We’ve heard over and over that outdoor activities are less risky than indoor activities. With gyms closed or operating in limited capacity, people are venturing outside more and more, and exploring their local trails. Maybe you’ve been frustrated that your local trails have become overrun, or covered in trash. Maybe you’d like to hike a long-distance trail, but permits are questionable, or (more likely) the logistics aren’t appropriate given the ongoing pandemic.
You can still hike safely during COVID. Here are some tips for making that happen.
1) Avoid popular trails. Buy a map (you know, like a paper one) of the local area you are interested in exploring. Look up hikes in the area, and try to find hikes on the map that are not listed on websites regarding hiking in the area. If you’ve heard lots of chatter about a trail, loop, or other hike, chances are it’s at least somewhat popular. Drive separately to the trailhead if you’re meeting friends there, and mask up and step aside if you pass other hikers.
2) Hike during unpopular times. Instead of prime time on the weekends, hit the local trails during the week, on crummy days, or in the dark. Even the most popular trails will be devoid of people if you choose the right times. Avoid holidays, gloriously sunny weekend days, and areas that are easily accessible right after working hours. If the parking lot seems full, avoid it. Hiking in less-than-ideal weather isn’t the worst thing either. Bring rain gear or an umbrella, layer properly, and you’ll be surprised at how pleasant it can be. The right headlamp or light source will make dusk or night hiking even better.
3) Considering an extended hike? Look for loops. Are you looking to do a long-distance trail, but the logistics seem daunting or inappropriate? Consider hiking a loop instead of an extended point-to-point trail, so that you don’t have to worry about shuttling from one end to the other. This means doing more research, but if you’re able to stay self-supported and create a loop, extended trails close to home aren’t out of the question.
4) Remember you’ll have fewer resources. Many regulations have changed due to COVID, such as campsite or state park closures. Some amenities might not be available either. Most information can be found online for the region you’re looking to hike in, and be prepared to wear a mask or have limited resources. Always research local guidelines and regulations. This also means you need to consider resources if you get sick or need help. Many hospitals are filled to capacity, and limits are already stretched. Stay within your own limits!
5) Look for trails where you can be self-sufficient. Research trails where you can walk to resupply points instead of hitchhiking, and if you can, cache food or stay unsupported the whole time.
6) Keep it local! Traveling to states for a long-distance hike isn’t the best idea right now. Find trail systems in your region, and limit contact in towns you pass through. Keep in mind that some permits have been suspended, and permitting processes might have changed.
Always follow Leave No Trace guidelines, and help others to follow them. Not only do following those guidelines help preserve the natural areas you love to explore, you will also help other visitors to enjoy their experience as well.
Enjoy hiking during the pandemic. It is one of the safer things we can still do that is fun and healthy, as long as you follow all local, regional, and CDC guidelines.
Christine Martens is a long-distance hiker who has hiked over 10,000 miles, including some of the famous long-distance trails such as the PCT and AT. She lives in Asheville, North Carolina, and enjoys hiking and running in her local mountains (which happen to be the tallest on the East Coast). She does not own a TV, so for entertainment she enjoys letting foster kittens destroy her house. You can find Christine on her personal blog, or Instagram and Facebook.