Are Hiking Trails in Georgia Open?

Georgia is a great place to explore the outdoors and its many hiking trails. With its varied terrain, ranging from mountains to coastal plains, Georgia offers an abundance of natural beauty to enjoy. However, due to the pandemic, many of these trails have had to close or limit access.

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has taken proactive measures in keeping outdoor recreation areas open for public use. The DNR has put into place new safety guidelines for visitors, such as limiting the number of people on the trails and requiring face coverings when social distancing cannot be maintained. Additionally, all visitors must take proper precautions such as bringing hand sanitizer and not touching surfaces that are not their own.

Many of Georgia’s national forests are also open for day use, but with reduced services and amenities. For example, many park offices are closed or providing limited services and some campgrounds remain closed until further notice. As well, visitors should check their individual forest websites for specific information regarding trail closures or restrictions before heading out.

The Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC) is also taking precautions to keep hikers safe while enjoying the trail. The ATC recommends that anyone planning a trip on the Appalachian Trail follow local and state regulations regarding group size restrictions and face coverings while on the trail. Additionally, they recommend that hikers practice proper social distancing when possible and avoid crowded spots or shelters along the trail.

Despite these changes in access and regulations, there are still plenty of opportunities for Georgians to safely enjoy hiking trails this summer. By following safety guidelines set by the DNR and ATC, as well as local regulations regarding group sizes and face coverings, hikers can still experience all that Georgia’s outdoors has to offer while staying safe at the same time.

Conclusion: In conclusion, most hiking trails in Georgia remain open with safety guidelines in place to help protect visitors during their outdoor adventures. By taking proper precautions such as wearing face coverings when necessary and avoiding crowded spots along the trail, hikers can still safely enjoy all that Georgia’s outdoors has to offer this summer season.

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Samantha Mckinney