Hiking communities and associations are urging hikers and backpackers to carefully consider their outdoor recreation plans to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19 (coronavirus). A number of states and localities, both in our region and across the United States, have issued stay-at-home / shelter-in-place orders. Also, a number of trails and parks have closed access to huts, shelters, and trails.
DC UL has suspended all trips through mid-April and is monitoring developments. As always, the health and safety of our members is paramount.
Here are resources to help you stay on top of the latest news:
- Shenandoah National Park: https://www.nps.gov/shen/planyourvisit/alerts.htm
- Appalachian Trail Conservancy’s COVID-19 page: https://wildeast.appalachiantrail.org/explore/plan-and-prepare/hiking-basics/health/covid19/
- Potomac Appalachian Trail Club: https://www.patc.net/
- Pennsylvania Department of Conservation & Natural Resources: https://www.dcnr.pa.gov/Pages/AlertDetails.aspx
- Appalachian Mountain Club: https://www.outdoors.org/category/articles/newsroom
- Pacific Crest Trail Association: https://www.pcta.org/please-postpone-or-cancel-your-pacific-crest-trail-plans-due-to-covid-19/
If you see any other hiking resources, send them our way or post in the comments below.
DC UL Backpacking 
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