On May 9, 2020, the City of Boulder, Colorado announced it was moving to the “Safer at Home” phase of COVID-19 mitigation. This comes after the much stricter Stay at Home order, which was implemented by the state on March 26. The Safer at Home program allows the reopening of a number of businesses and the easing of stay at home restrictions.
What does this mean for the city’s parks and recreation areas? As stated on the city’s website, several facilities have now reopened. However, all picnic shelters and tables remain closed, and nature centers and concentrated use areas in Boulder’s Open Space and Mountain Parks are also staying shut for now.
Is it safe to hit Boulder’s trails during the pandemic?
Even during Colorado’s Stay at Home phase, many of Boulder’s popular trails have remained open —and for very good reason. In a time when maintaining one’s health and keeping spirits up is paramount, spending time in nature is one of the best things you can do to improve your well-being.
However, being in the outdoors does not give you immunity from the virus or stop its ability to spread. Even as you enjoy the sunshine, fresh air, and lush green surroundings, you should continue being mindful of everyone’s health and safety.
Enjoying the Outdoors Safely and Responsibly
When taking to Boulder’s trails, here’s what you can do to keep yourself, your family, and your community protected:
- Practice social distancing
Always keep a distance of 6 feet between you and other individuals on the trails. Note that large groups are still prohibited from going out in public, so for now, it’s best to go on hikes and runs alone, or perhaps, with only one partner from the same household.
While on a trail, you may need to step aside to let someone pass. As much as possible, avoid going off-trail and stepping on plants, as this can permanently ruin vegetation in the area and widen the trail. Step off to a bare spot or on a rock to maintain distance from passing hikers or runners, then go back to the trail. If you have to pass others, announce yourself politely. - Bring a face covering
Boulder County has adopted the Facial Covering Order, which requires everyone 12 years and older to wear a face covering while out in public, including on the city’s trails. If the next person is more than 6 feet away, you may take off your face covering. However, as soon as the gap narrows to 6 feet or less, you need to put it back on. - Avoid crowded places
To avoid crowding, the city has limited the areas where people can go for outdoor recreation. Some places, particularly Flagstaff Mountain, have remained busy during the weekends. In addition to making social distancing difficult, the crowding in these areas has led to illegal parking, as allowed parking spaces have been limited as well.Try to avoid these places so you can practice social distancing comfortably and avoid the hassle of finding a parking spot. Check out OSMPTrails.org or the Boulder Area Trails App to look for other options. These sites will also keep you updated on new regulations along the trails, as well as on information about trail closures and reopenings.
At a time when the world is facing unparalleled challenges, living in a community like Boulder, CO, where you’re surrounded by the rejuvenating vastness of nature, can help ease the stress. Find out more about your real estate options in the city. Call us, the Noel Team, at 303.774.9400 or email sjnoel(at)remax(dotted)net today.
