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It is no surprise that with many states and countries opening back up, people are eager to get outside. If you are thinking about hitting the trails, here are a few tips on how to social distance while hiking.

How to Hike and Social Distance

Getting outside can be really beneficial to your mental health – something even more important in the setting of the covid-19 pandemic. So without further ado, here are my tips for how to social distance while hiking:

PSA: Without debating the politics of masks, some outdoor areas require them. Please look into this before choosing your hiking destination and prepare accordingly.

Check for Closures before Leaving

Make sure you have a plan in advance and check to make sure the trail/park is actually open. You can do investigating both on Facebook and the park website.

Pick Less Popular Trails

If a trail was popular pre-covid, it’s going to be even more popular now. Especially considering that not everything is open. The likelihood of being able to practice social distancing while hiking will drop substantially if you are on a heavily trafficked trail. Not sure if the trail you are choosing is popular? The AllTrails app and website will let you know when you look up a specific trail. AllTrails has a free and paid version – definitely worth signing up for even if you don’t want to pay.

In addition to doing your research ahead of time, you can tell a lot about how crowded a trail is going to be by looking at the parking lot when you get there. Nowhere to park? Maybe choose a Plan B hike instead.

Hike at Less Popular Times

Have you been eyeing that super popular hike? Saturday afternoon is not the most responsible time to go. However, going early for sunrise, potentially sunset hiking, or going on the weekday instead of the weekend can help with how to social distance while hiking.

Avoid Gathering at Trailheads and Rest Areas

So you did your research, found out your trail was open, picked a less popular time, so you head out. When you get to the trail, it’s important not to congregate at the trailhead, rest areas, or popular stopping points along the trail. This could inadvertently keep other people from social distancing themselves.

Try to Give 6ft of Space

If you are on a ridge line or cliff, this is of course not always possible. However, it’s a good idea to give people plenty of room when passing. If the trail is narrow, carefully step off the trail (being careful of vegetation). Do not walk parallel to the trail as this can cause the trail to widen slowly over time and have negative long-term consequences on nature.

Leave no trace

Most importantly, as more people escape to the outdoors during this weird re-opening phase, it’s even more important than ever to leave no trace. Services will be more limited than usual. The trailhead trashcans, restrooms, and other services may or may not be accesible. So be prepared. And don’t be a jerk. There are so many beautiful places to enjoy taht can easily be ruined if we aren’t careful.

How to Social Distance while Hiking

Hopefully these tips for how to hike and social distance are helpful for your next time on the trails. Do you have anything to add? Are you headed out to hike? Let me know in the comments!

Looking for the perfect hiking attire? Check out what to wear while hiking here.

Hoping for a Utah-specific hike recommendation? Check out the 26 Best Hikes in Utah here.

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