
filed under: health and social benefits
Trails As Health and Safety Inspiration in the Age of Coronavirus
America’s incomparable system of national scenic, historic, and recreational trails is the perfect way to sustain your mental and physical health, while maintaining the social distancing that is required in these challenging times.
by Mike Passo, Executive Director, American Trails
With the onset of COVID-19, and the challenging isolation required of us all, American Trails would like to suggest that trails, parks, and outdoor recreation are the ideal way to kick your cabin fever, without exposing yourself to the coronavirus.
Care must be practiced throughout the experience (read up on our synopsis of the guidance provided by many of our public land management partners HERE), but when done thoughtfully and carefully, trails are inherently perfect as social distancing tools. You really can’t help but maintain appropriate social distancing while using a trail.
American Trails and our partners in the trail and outdoor recreation communities invite all of those who are no longer able to visit tourism or hospitality venues during the pandemic lock-down to safely enjoy the healthy option of an independently enjoyed hike, bike, run, or ride on America's system of scenic open space trails!
As schools close and cities cancel public events and recommend people avoid busy places, public health experts say trails and parks are a safer option when looking for recreation. When you head out to a trail, please remember the following:
These are challenging times, but one thing is clear, our fellow American’s will need relief and respite now more than ever. Trails, outdoor recreation, and our amazing open spaces can well serve that need. We are all in this together, and American Trails offers up this inspiration that trails have always and will continue to save people.
Sheltowee Trace - Big Turtle 50 Miler Trail Runner preparing to pass over creek on swinging bridge in Morehead, Kentucky; Photo by Michael Whisman
Crossing Silver Bridge on the Bright Angel Trail in Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona; Photo by Michael Brunson
Summer Reflections on the Wilson’s Creek Greenways Trail in Springfield, Missouri; Photo by Allin Sorenson
Central Arizona Project (CAP) Trail - Family enjoying the new segment of the CAP NRT in Pinal County, Arizona, near Redrock Arizona; Photo by Charles Hofer
Morning Solitude on the Wilson’s Creek Greenways Trail in Springfield, Missouri; Photo by Allin Sorenson
American Conservation Experience crew members working on the North Kaibab Trail in Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona; Photo by Jessica Plance
Published March 2020
National Park Service − Rivers, Trails and Conservation Assistance Program
This publication is designed to inform the reader about the services provided by the National Park Service – Rivers, Trails and Conservation Assistance Program.
2022 NRT Photo Contest Winners Announced
The results are in! Here are our picks from the 591 photos submitted for the 2022 photo contest.
Improving Accessibility on Public Lands
Recommendations from American Trails
The Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA) is Making a Difference Across America
Use this interactive map to find where, when, and how these funds are being used.