New York State is home to some of the most beautiful hiking trails in the United States. From the majestic Adirondacks to the rolling hills of the Finger Lakes region, there are countless opportunities to explore the outdoors.
The good news is that many of these trails are open to hikers during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, due to state and local restrictions, some trails may be closed or have limited access.
It’s important for hikers to check with their local parks and recreation departments before they hit the trails.
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation has issued guidelines for outdoor recreation during this time. Some of these include maintaining a physical distance of 6 feet between people who don’t live together, wearing a face covering when social distancing isn’t possible, and avoiding touching surfaces in public places.
Hikers should also be aware that some trails may have restrictions on group sizes or have limited access during certain times of day. Additionally, many parks are reducing their operating hours or closing certain areas entirely, so it’s important to check with park staff before planning your hike.
It’s also advisable for hikers to bring along hand sanitizer and wear gloves when using shared surfaces such as picnic tables or restroom facilities. Finally, be sure to practice Leave No Trace principles by packing out all trash and leaving the area as you found it.
Conclusion:
Yes, hiking trails are open in NY State with certain restrictions in place due to COVID-19. It’s important for hikers to check with their local parks and recreation departments before they hit the trails and follow safety guidelines from NYS DEC while enjoying outdoor activities like hiking.
