Learn the dos and don’t of speeding time outside during this time of COVID-19.

Do’s

Spend time outside!

We will most likely be socially distancing and self isolating for the next few weeks to months. It is not feasible or healthy to spend all of this time inside. So by all means, get outside and breath in the fresh air. The outdoors are the original gym, and many people overlook the fact that many machines in a gym are designed to replicate movement that can be done in your local park.

Hiking or Biking?

There are numerous trails around the San Luis Valley that are still open to public access, even in the town of Alamosa. This is a great time to check out those local trails you have always been curious about. If you see others out there, just make sure to maintain a safe distance of 6ft when passing so we do not spread the virus. Here are a few resources for trails in the area:

Forest Bathing

Ever heard of Forest Bathing? This is a great opportunity to give it a try. As long as our forests are open, this is a great way to rejuvenate yourself and stay healthy.

Learn a new activity!

This is the perfect time to try out outdoor activities around your home you have always wanted to do. It is important to look for non-risky activities that do not require a lot of new gear. Learn how to garden, for example. You can still find supplies, like seeds, at the supermarkets in town, with ample how-to resources online.

Train for post Covid-19 life

At a certain point, travel restrictions will be limited, restaurants will reopen, and events will start taking place again. Look for races/ competitions at least 5-6 months out and start training for them! Having something to look forward to can help you through this crisis and will give purpose and meaning to your social distancing.

Support your favorite local outdoor stores and restaurants

The retail and restaurant industries are going through a recession like this country has never seen before. While it is important to make sure you are financially stable yourself, think about buying things from your favorite places. Gift cards are an excellent way to help support your favorite shops and restaurants and set yourself up for success post COVID-19 life.

Don’ts

This is not the time to push your technical abilities outside

Nobody should be putting themselves in a position where they could potentially get hurt. Our hospitals are overwhelmed and one of the most important things we can do is make sure we do not add to the burden of our healthcare system right now. This means you should not be learning how to mountain bike in the next few weeks, for example. Along with any of the more risky outdoor sports, including rock climbing, whitewater kayaking, skiing/ snowboarding, mountain biking, etc. If you are experienced in these sports it is important to stay well within your capabilities.

Do not travel to pursue outdoor activities!

If you are trying to spend time outside, you should be frequenting your closest available locations that these sports can take place. The extra weeks off are not time you should be spending in Moab. Many major outdoor recreation areas exist near small towns with limited infrastructure. These towns can not handle an influx of recreationalists while they are trying to provide support, healthcare, and supplies to their local town. Sticking to a small radius for outdoor activities will also reduce the amount of time you will spend visiting highly frequented places like gas stations where you are more likely to catch the COVID-19 Coronavirus.

Do not recreate in large groups

While it is important to have a partner during outdoor activities to increase your safety, this is not the time to be going out in groups. Social distancing is one of the only remedies we have to the COVID-19 pandemic and we can not forsake this for the desire to recreate. Find a buddy or two who you will consistently recreate with and do not expand outside this group.

Do not recreate in public lands that have closed

This includes ski resorts without explicit uphill travel rules. Over the coming weeks, public lands will be closing down, and you need to respect these closures.