Resources for Safe Outdoor Activity During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Posted 03/27/20 by Amy Kapp in America's Trails, Trail Use

During the coronavirus pandemic, Rails-to-Trails Conservancy urges everyone seeking trail experiences to practice social distancing and follow the safety guidelines on being active in the outdoors outlined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as well as the laws and regulations set forth by state and local governments. For additional information, please visit our COVID-19 Resources page.
As the nation works to slow the spread of COVID-19 by practicing extreme social distancing, public health experts agree that outdoor exercise is essentialas long as people maintain a safe social distance of 6 feet between each other.
But as trails and parks continue to serve as vital places for Americans to be outside, major spikes in usage have resulted in overcrowding—making social distancing difficult and forcing managers to limit access to or, in some cases, close facilities, altogether. Additionally, many states and communities have had to enact laws and regulations around group activity to ensure good social-distancing practices among residents and curtail the spread of the Coronavirus.
Good judgment and preparation are critical during this time to ensure we can be active safely in the outdoors. This includes: following the guidelines laid out by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on social distancing, hand washing and sanitizing before, during and after being outside; and adhering to all laws and regulations set by states and local communities.
Below is a list of resources that offer guidance on how to be safe in the outdoors, as well as the latest updates on closures of trails, parks and related facilities. Rails-to-Trails Conservancy (RTC) will continue to update this list as more information becomes available.
Safe-Use Resources for Outdoor Activity
Federal Public Health Tips to Reduce the Spread of COVID-19
To urge all Americans to practice social distancing and critical public-health preparedness practices to slow the spread of COVID-19, the CDC has provided a collection of tips and resources for travelers, families, businesses and schools, healthcare professionals, pregnant women and children so people can be proactive in protecting themselves and others. For resources and real-time updates, go to coronavirus.gov.
Tips for Safe Use of Trails and Linear Parks

RTCrecently put out guidance on how to safely navigate trails and linear pathways as many experience record use. Good judgment, preparation, and following all local laws and regulations of states and communities related to group limitations, curfews, etc., are crucial to ensure safe use. Specific tips include social distancing; hand sanitation; and staying close to home to avoid crowds on popular trails as well as the chance of accidents that could put a strain on local emergency resources. RTC also produced this rapid-response webinar, "Trail Use and Management During the COVID-19 Pandemic," to hear from trail leaders in COVID-19 hotspotsabout how they are managing their facilities.
To this end, many organizations are using social media and video to disseminate information to their constituents, such as East Bay Regional Park District.
We’re all in this together! For your safety and ours, stay 6 feet apart when in parks and on the trails. Visit https://t.co/RO2KFlzfiS before you go for up-to-date info on COVID-19 park closures.#LoveYourParks6FeetApart #KeepParksSafe #SocialDistancing pic.twitter.com/yyyGZyoakm
— East Bay Regional Parks (@EBRPD) March 27, 2020
John Muir Health just put out this great PSA on walking and hiking in the outdoors—and here’s a great video from the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection.
RTC is corresponding with thousands of trail managers to develop resources for professionals as they deal with the extreme increases in demand, while simultaneously striving to balance public health and safety in an era of social distancing. View our recent rapid-response webinar, “Trail Use and Management During the COVID-19 Pandemic,” to hear from trail leaders in COVID-19 hotspots.
Finding Close-to-Home Trails and Greenways for Safe Use
TrailLink.com is an extensive free resource for locating close-to-home trails and greenways across the United States, offering information, biking and walking directions, maps, user reviews, photos and more for 37,000+ miles of multiuse trails, including more than 24,000 rail-trails.
Note: As communities and states seek ways to reduce the threat of COVID-19, they have begun to close trail facilities, including restrooms and parking lots. In some cases, trails have closed altogether. Before heading out to a local trail, please be sure to check with the local trail-managing organization (contact information can be found on the TrailLink records for each trail).
Tips and Guidelines for Public Parks and Recreation Areas
Although park departments across the United States are closing active facilities like playgrounds, sports fields, restrooms, picnic pavilions, etc.—many public parks and green spaces remain open. The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) offers extensive guidance and an infographic on how to be safe and ensure the safety of others when out in public green space. This includes advice such as avoiding water fountains—even if operable—and removing all trash to protect park workers.
NRPA is also maintain a News and Resources for the Field Page in their online COVID-19 collection of resources, with blogs, and operational and program resources for park and recreation professionals.
COVID-19 Closure Info/Guidance for Parks, Trails and Public Lands
Information on State Park and Trail Closures
Current guidance recommends close-to-home outdoor activity, and the avoidance of popular state-owned thru-hiking trails and parks that might result in overcrowded parking lots, trailheads, rights-of-way and lands.
The National Association of State Park Directors (NASPD) advises that due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many state park managers have closed facilities, access and, in some cases, whole state parks or whole systems. To learn the status of state parks and facilities, go to the NASPD homepage, which provides a searchable map of each state park website.
Updates for National Scenic and Historic Trails
Many overseers of National Scenic and Historic Trails—such as the Pacific Crest Trail Association and the Appalachian Trail Conservancy—are discouraging the use of their long-distance thru-hiking trails and canceling programs and events to promote social distancing, encourage close-to-home outdoor activity and reduce overcrowding. To that end, the Partnership for the National Trails System is maintain a page to track organizational responses, guidelines, policies, event cancelations and related resources in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.
National Park Announcements, Guidance and Closures During COVID-19
The National Park Service (NPS) is urging people to do their part when visiting all parks in the system and to follow CDC guidance to “avoid the spread of infectious diseases” [like COVID-19] with recommendations for public health preparation, and facility and closure information. As of March 26, 2020, three national parks have been closed to visitors temporarily.
To access an interactive map for each individual national park, and subsequent facility and closure information, go to the NPS “Find a Park” page.
An Essential Guide to Enjoying National Parks Responsibly
Additionally, you might find this resource on enjoying national parks responsibly very useful,which has plenty of tips, practical advice and other resources to stay safe while you're visiting parks and recreating in the outdoors.
As Americans continue to rely on trails and other outdoor spaces for critical physical activity and mental health during this uncertain time, RTC urges everyone—including individuals, families and older Americans—to be safe and use good judgment when in the outdoors.
We will update this page as new resources come in.

Rails-to-Trails Conservancy urges everyone to be as safe as possible when out on the trails in their communities, and to follow CDC guidelines and state/local guidance and laws before visiting your local trail. Read the insights and information that RTC is compiling to help you stay active and to promote wellness during this time.
SEE COVID-19 RESOURCES
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COVID-19 Encouraging Trail Use Trail Use Tips Why Use Trails?
FAQs
What are your recreational activities during this pandemic? ›
Get moving with these low-risk outdoor activities during the COVID-19 pandemic: Walking, running and hiking. Rollerblading and biking. Fishing and hunting.
What should be done to stay safe in this time of pandemic? ›Avoid crowds and close contact. Wear a properly fitted mask when physical distancing is not possible and in poorly ventilated settings. Clean your hands frequently with alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water.
What's the most popular outdoor activity? ›- Running. Running is by far the most popular outdoor activity in the USA. ...
- Fishing. Fishing is consistently a very popular outdoor pursuit in the USA. ...
- Hiking. ...
- Bicycling. ...
- Camping. ...
- Wildlife Viewing. ...
- Hunting. ...
- Skiing.
Support relatives by including and inviting them to participate in activities, meetings, gardening, bus trips and in doing so encouraging them to visit more often. Create personalised invitations for recreation events; people are often moved by special invitations. Initiate a volunteer's program.
Can I exercise outdoors during the coronavirus pandemic? ›Following these 8 tips for outdoor exercise can largely help to stay physically active and reduce the general risk of COVID-19 transmission. 1. Congested areas must be avoided. Exercise in isolation areas with social distancing, at least 2 meters away from each other, is highly recommended.
What are 5 the health benefits of outdoor activities? ›- You will be happier. Exercising outdoors isn't just good for your physical health. ...
- Your self-esteem will improve. Outdoor exercise stimulates all five senses in a way that indoor activities cannot. ...
- Vitamin D levels go up. ...
- You will exercise longer and burn more calories.
Outdoor activities in public spaces can be divided into three categories, each of which places very different demands on the physical environment: necessary activities, optional activities, and social activities.
How can you be safe outside? ›- Stick to well populated, busy areas. ...
- Stay in well-lit areas. ...
- If you are out at night, wear reflective clothing so drivers can see you.
- Important: Do not shut yourself off from the rest of the world. ...
- Take a cell phone. ...
- Let others know. ...
- Keep your head up and look confident. ...
- Almost home?
- Gloves.
- Eye protection/face protection.
- Hearing protection.
- Coats/aprons.
- Footwear.
- Head protection.
- Height safety equipment.
- Your safety is your personal responsibility.
- Always follow the correct procedures.
- Never take shortcuts.
- Take responsibility and clean up if you made a mess.
- Clean and organize your workspace.
- Ensure a clear and easy route to emergency exits and equipment.
- Be alert and awake on the job.
What are outdoor and adventure activities? ›
In summary, outdoor and adventure activities are mainly non-competitive and offer alternative ways to enjoy a healthy approach to recreation and outdoor activities. The outdoor and adventures activities strand has many links with the Geography curriculum.
What are the examples of outdoor? ›Archery | Badminton |
---|---|
Rock Climbing | Rowing |
Running | Sailing |
Sightseeing | Skateboarding |
Skiing | Skipping Rope |
Outdoor activities expose us to new terrains and challenge us to go out of our comfort zone. This leads us to put our adaptation skills into action and also boosts our sense of adventure.
How should you plan an outdoor activity? ›- Have a back-up plan.
- Select a location with indoor and outdoor venues.
- Make inquiries about curfews and get permits.
- Be sure to make arrangements for protective cover.
- Provide hydration stations.
- Keep an emergency kit handy.
Promoting an individual's rights, choices and independence are the key principles of active participation. These principles are also the cornerstone of person-centred care, an approach which respects a person's dignity, values, their right to choose and make decisions based on their personal needs and beliefs.
How participate in outdoor activities can improve social skills? ›It allows them to learn how to make good social decisions for themselves, develop self-confidence, and acknowledge their own abilities and strengths. Outdoor play also provides a safe environment where children can begin to learn how to deal with conflict and aggression.
How can you protect yourself from anything harmful when you go outside for exercise? ›Wear light or brightly colored clothing during the day. Wear reflective material on your clothing and carry a flashlight at night. Put lights on the front and back of your bike. Wear sturdy, appropriate shoes for your activity that give you proper footing.
What will you do to overcome these barriers of participating recreational activities? ›Invite friends and family members to exercise with you. Plan social activities involving exercise. Develop new friendships with physically active people. Join a gym or group, such as the YMCA or a hiking club.
How do you exercise outside? ›- Walking. Not in the mood for an intense workout? ...
- Hiking. While hiking is similar to walking, it's an experience all its own. ...
- Jogging. ...
- Interval Training. ...
- Biking. ...
- Jumping Rope. ...
- Equipment-Free Bodyweight Exercises.
For some, this might be accomplished through exercise in their homes including jumping jacks, mountain climbers, and sequencing strength training exercises (i.e. standing squats, push-ups, sit-ups).
How can you promote your active and healthy lifestyle in the community? ›
- Address basic needs such as food, shelter and education.
- Promote healthier lifestyles, one person at a time.
- Knock down barriers to health screenings and needed care.
- Create opportunities for people to improve their lives.
Social media is a relevant, inexpensive, way to promote your recreation activities in your community. With the proper tools and processes in place, it doesn't have to add much time to your existing promotional processes and workflows, and it can be an impactful way to engage your community.
What are active outdoor activities? ›Other traditional examples of outdoor recreational activities include hiking, camping, mountaineering, cycling, dog walking, canoeing, caving, kayaking, rafting, rock climbing, running, sailing, skiing, sky diving and surfing.
What recreational activities can be both outdoor and indoor? ›- Activities. At-Home Activities to Bring the Outdoors Indoors. ...
- Scavenger Hunt. Nature makes a pretty great place for a scavenger hunt, but your home can be a close second. ...
- Roast Marshmallows. ...
- Tape Maze. ...
- Indoor Bowling. ...
- Jump Rope. ...
- Gardening. ...
- Picnic.
The key strategy is to use games, activities like dancing, competitive sports that encourage youth to enjoy physical activity that is moderate to vigorous intensity.
How do you ensure the safety of learners when using outdoor resources? ›- Be sure all outdoor play areas are fenced, especially near a street, parking lot, pond, well, or railroad track.
- Surround electrical appliances in the play area, such as air conditioners, with fences so children cannot reach them.
- Remove gas grills from outdoor play areas.
Outdoor play settings offer many learning opportunities and pose many hazards. Reducing the hazards will allow children to be free to safely explore and to make discoveries. This is the key to learning and making discoveries that support learning.
How can you stay safe in a community? ›Travel well-lit, busy streets and be alert at all times to your surroundings. Don't walk in high risk areas if you can avoid it at any time of day. Tell a trusted neighbor or friend when you intend to go out and when you're likely to return, but don't leave a note on the door telling people that you are gone.
What are the 10 safety measures? ›- 1) Reduce Workplace Stress. ...
- 2) Use Tools and Machines Properly. ...
- 3) Use Mechanical Aids When Possible. ...
- 4) Wear Protective Equipment. ...
- 5) Stay Sober. ...
- 6) Be Aware of Your Surroundings. ...
- 7) Correct Posture Protects Your Back. ...
- 8) Be Alert and Awake.
- Always play safe by being careful and showing courtesy.
- Never run around or push and pull others while near playground equipment. ...
- Don't go too close to the front or rear of moving equipment; instead, walk out around it.
- Wear proper clothing. ...
- When you get off equipment make sure there isn't anyone in the way.
What safety measures you follow during this pandemic? ›
Avoid crowds and close contact. Wear a properly fitted mask when physical distancing is not possible and in poorly ventilated settings. Clean your hands frequently with alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water. Cover your mouth and nose with a bent elbow or tissue when you cough or sneeze.
What are some safety suggestions? ›- Always Report Unsafe Conditions. ...
- Wear protective equipment. ...
- Take breaks. ...
- Don't skip steps. ...
- Stay up to date with new procedures or protocols. ...
- Maintain proper posture. ...
- Offer guidance to new employees.
Always warm up before doing exercise and cool down afterwards to lower the risk of strains and sprains; Take appropriate breaks during the activity; Do not exercise with an empty stomach. Eat something light (such as toast with jam or skimmed milk) to give you some stamina.
What is the most popular outdoor activity? ›- Running. Running is by far the most popular outdoor activity in the USA. ...
- Fishing. Fishing is consistently a very popular outdoor pursuit in the USA. ...
- Hiking. ...
- Bicycling. ...
- Camping. ...
- Wildlife Viewing. ...
- Hunting. ...
- Skiing.
Many people enjoy playing badminton, riding bicycles, and walking. Some sports that have been adopted from other cultures are also popular, such as basketball, tennis, and track sports.
What are the 3 classifications of outdoor activities? ›Outdoor activities in public spaces can be divided into three categories, each of which places very different demands on the physical environment: necessary activities, optional activities, and social activities.
What are 5 the health benefits of outdoor activities? ›- You will be happier. Exercising outdoors isn't just good for your physical health. ...
- Your self-esteem will improve. Outdoor exercise stimulates all five senses in a way that indoor activities cannot. ...
- Vitamin D levels go up. ...
- You will exercise longer and burn more calories.
Sports or athletic games typically performed in the open, including physical exertion, are referred to as outdoor games. All across the world, people enjoy playing outdoor games and sports since they are fun and beneficial for physical fitness.
How outdoor activities help students? ›Outdoor learning improves child development.
By heading outside and learning in nature, kids improve their emotional, intellectual, and behavioral development. Outdoor learning helps foster the development of creativity, problem-solving, independence, and confidence.
- Know your limits. ...
- Invest in the right gear. ...
- Make room for creature comforts. ...
- Prepare your body for the activity. ...
- Welcome breaks and stretch. ...
- Plan for after the adventure. ...
- Looking for a fun, easy way to stretch?
What recreational activity that you think might help you in this time of pandemic and why? ›
Moving your body and getting fresh air can help you stay happy and healthy. Walking and bicycling outdoors are great ways to support your mental, emotional, and physical health needs, while following social distancing guidance. Learn more about the Benefits of Physical Activity.
How does recreational activities benefit yourself especially during the COVID-19 pandemic? ›Regular physical activity benefits both the body and mind. It can reduce high blood pressure, help manage weight and reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and various cancers - all conditions that can increase susceptibility to COVID-19.
What are recreational activities for students? ›- Painting. Try letting students de-stress by painting. ...
- Coloring. One of the easiest ways to keep kids occupied is to let them color. ...
- Drawing. ...
- Playdough. ...
- Arts and crafts. ...
- Origami. ...
- Collages. ...
- Board games, checkers, and chess.
Spending time in nature and the natural light can improve your mood and reduce stress and depression. Engaging in physical activity produces similar benefits and often times relaxes and cheers people up. Your self-esteem will improve. Outdoor exercise stimulates all five senses in a way that indoor activities cannot.
What are the purposes of recreational activities both indoor and outdoor? ›Recreational activities give enjoyment because while recreating one engages in something he likes. They are a source of joy and provide relaxation for one's mind and body. Recreational activities can be grouped into two groups: indoor and outdoor activities.
What are some fun things to do while in quarantine? ›- Reading. Now is the time to pick up a good book, or better yet, a great series! ...
- Play a board game. ...
- Watch a movie (or the whole series) ...
- Camp out at home. ...
- Perfect your cooking skills. ...
- Meditate. ...
- Exercise. ...
- Work from home (WFH).
encourage social interaction. improve concentration and learning. increase personal confidence and self-awareness. reduce feelings of depression and anxiety.
What do you think are the risk of outdoor activities? ›- traffic and pedestrian management.
- ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure.
- adverse weather conditions (e.g., rain, wind, ice, temperature extremes etc.)
- natural disasters (e.g., storms, fire, floods etc.)
- animals and insects.
- noxious plants.
Invite friends and family members to exercise with you. Plan social activities involving exercise. Develop new friendships with physically active people. Join a gym or group, such as the YMCA or a hiking club.
What are the things you need to do to address your barriers in doing physical activities? ›- Squeeze in exercise throughout the day. If you don't have time for a full workout, don't sweat it. ...
- Get up earlier. ...
- Drive less, walk more. ...
- Revamp your rituals. ...
- Choose activities you enjoy. ...
- Vary the routine. ...
- Join forces. ...
- Explore new options.
How will you promote doing recreational activities in your community? ›
Social media is a relevant, inexpensive, way to promote your recreation activities in your community. With the proper tools and processes in place, it doesn't have to add much time to your existing promotional processes and workflows, and it can be an impactful way to engage your community.
What are 10 benefits of recreational activities? ›- Develops Personal Development and Growth.
- Physical Health.
- Self Esteem and Self Reliance.
- Creativity and Sense of Accomplishment.
- Creates more Fun.
- Enhances Pleasure.
- Reduces Stress.
- Increases Life Satisfaction.