Responsible Outdoor Enjoyment During Coronavirus (COVID-19) Pandemic

The Reno-Tahoe Territory is acclaimed for its abundance of open space, national forests, state parks, recreation areas, county parks and networks of multi-use trails. From the cool shores of Lake Tahoe to the open pinyon-juniper woodland forests in the valleys, the Reno-Tahoe Territory is a leading destination for outdoor enthusiasts and locals should be considering themselves lucky to call this destination home, especially now during the COVID-19 pandemic.

During this time of social distancing, the Reno-Tahoe Territory is leading the charge in advocating for safe and responsible outdoor enjoyment, while placing the health of the overall public first and foremost.  Spring is upon us and a dose of outdoor refreshment is just what the isolated soul craves. The Territory is encouraging those who do head outdoors to do so mindfully and to take precautions to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus.

Visitors, we cannot wait to have you back to our trails and parks, but now is not the time to visit us. Stay home and stay safe.

The Reno-Tahoe Territory is proud of our members and agencies for sharing these messages and codes of responsibility for enjoying our outdoor treasures:

• Follow all state and local guidelines and be sure to check carefully as to current trail openings and restrictions before heading out.
• Hike during off times such as early in the morning and late in the afternoon.
• Keep your distance on the trails. Exerting more energy means safe distance can be up to 30 feet, depending on the activity, but at minimum keep 6 feet from other hikers, runners and bikers.
• Hike on wider trails and roads where you can safely maintain distance from other people.
• If a trail looks crowded, find another one.
• Wash and sanitize your hands regularly and don’t forget to clean your equipment such as trekking poles and bicycles.
• Keep your dogs leashed. Loose dogs can lead to unnecessary human interaction.
• If you head out, hike or bike from home as most trailheads are closed. This also prevents congregating at trail heads.
• Avoid wet or muddy north-facing trails during this time of spring melt. It’s safer for you and better reduces the impact on our trails and reduces the risk of needing emergency crews to assist you.
• Be prepared for limited access to public restrooms and water fountains.
• Communicate! Let other trail users know of your presence. Be nice, say hi! We are all in this together.
• Please stay home if you are feeling sick.
• Above all else, respect the trails and parks. There is less maintenance staff during this time and we do not want to additionally expose first responders. Pack your trash and be mindful of trail and park conditions. Now is not the time to exceed your comfort or fitness abilities.

Footnotes:

The communities of the Reno-Tahoe Territory are doing their part to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. The above recommendations were compiled from the below members and agencies:

• Joint Message from Reno, Sparks & Washoe County. “Park Use During COVID-19 Public Health Emergency.” Reno Community Emergency Preparedness. April 16, 2020.
• Carson City and Douglas County. “Carson City and Douglas County Social Distancing trail Guide.” COVID-19 Update. April 16, 2020.
• Tahoe Area Mountain Biking Association. “Managing Through COVID-19.” April Tahoe Trail News. April 16, 2020.
• Biggest Little Trail Stewardship. “Special Notice COVID-19 Distancing in Park.” April 16, 2020.

For more information on planning a future visit to the Reno-Tahoe Territory, please visit RenoTahoe.com and check out the numerous videos.