After spending months in lockdown or dealing with other impacts of a global health crisis, many Colorado Springs area outdoor enthusiasts are wondering if it’s safe to hike and camp during Coronavirus. Of course, COVID-19 hasn’t left the building, but you’re probably tired of being cooped up inside and want to enjoy the nice weather while it’s here. While enjoying the great outdoors is certainly a viable option, it’s important to understand the risks and take necessary precautions.
Is It Safe to Hike and Camp During Coronavirus in Colorado?
You’re probably going stir-crazy and yearning for the great outdoors. According to science, outdoor activities are much better than a crowded movie theater or nightclub.
Harvard Medical School’s Health resource states that air currents outdoors are more likely to dilute and scatter the virus, making transmission less likely than in confined spaces. In a study of over 7,300 COVID-19 cases in China, only one was linked to outdoor transmission.
In other words, the risk is much lower, but not zero. If you plan to hike and camp during Coronavirus safely, you’ll want to take some precautions.
Tips for Safely Hiking and Camping During Coronavirus
If you plan to hike and camp during COVID-19, just know that you may not be alone. Thanks to fears surrounding virus transmission, camping and hiking have become one of the hottest getaways in 2020.
As of June 1, roughly 80% of campgrounds and RV parks in North America on the booking app Campendium were open for business. But bookings of RV’s for hire have doubled on RVshare compared to this time last year.
If you plan to hike and camp in Colorado during Coronavirus, here are a few guidelines to stay safe.
Further Reading: Outdoor Activities For Self-Care In The Pikes Peak Region
Stay Close to Home
The fact remains that you run a bigger risk of contracting the virus the farther you travel from home. Of course, you can gas up near home and stuff your vehicle full of supplies and gear with the intent of driving straight through to your destination. But, you will inevitably have to stop.
You might have a roadside emergency or need an unplanned bathroom break. Anytime you come into contact with others, you risk contact with COVID-19. Some campgrounds are only open to state residents, so try to limit your activities to your local area.
Understand the Local Rules
No matter where you go hiking or camping, take some time to understand the local rules. In Colorado, the state park system is taking reservations, but you can no longer get a walk-in campsite. Even so, playgrounds and some visitor centers in state campgrounds remain closed.
Some campgrounds require masks, and some local areas only require them indoors. Bathroom facilities and trash receptacles on trails and in campgrounds may be closed.
Take Necessary Precautions
During these unprecedented times, be prepared to keep yourself and your loved ones safe. Take the following necessary precautions if you want to hike and camp in Colorado during Coronavirus:
- Make plans – Make your reservations and buy your permits in advance.
- Come prepared – Arrive with your own food, hiking and camping equipment, and disinfectants and sanitizers.
- Social distance – Keep a respectful six-foot distance from anyone that isn’t in your campsite or social bubble.
- Follow the rules – If a site or trail is closed, stay away from it. Follow all trail and campground rules.
Summary
If you’d like to hike and camp in Colorado during Coronavirus, make sure you have the right equipment on hand to stay safe and comfortable. Mountain Equip Recyclers (MER) is a reputable source for new and used hiking and camping equipment in the Colorado Springs area. And our customers are thrilled to know that 100% of our net profits go towards charitable causes.
Contact us today with any questions, and we look forward to seeing you again when we open back up at our new location!
Read More on Colorado Outdoor Activities
Why Consignment Stores Are Increasingly Popular For Hiking And Camping Gear
How To Buy Used Climbing Gear That Is Safe
Five Benefits Of Using A Consignment Store When Buying A Used Bike
