Trail Etiquette in the Time of COVID

By: Jennifer McDuffie, Durham Community Trail Watch Founding Member

Some articles say a safe "social distance" while exercising is 10-12 feet or 'double the distance,' not 6 feet, due to heavier breathing and the "slip stream" effect.


But our wonderful trails are just 6 feet wide! How are we to continue enjoying our trails and keep ourselves and others safe at the same time?

Here are some suggestions:

1. Wear a mask. If you don't have one, you can even make one out of an old t-shirt (no sewing even required).
2. Announce yourself. If you are coming up behind someone on the trail, let them know so they can move off the trail to let you pass. Then pass them as far left as possible.
3. Single file if someone is passing. If you are traveling with family and you hear someone behind or see someone ahead, drop to single file and move off the trail until they have passed.
4. Don't pass down the middle. Whenever possible, avoid running or riding BETWEEN two groups on the trail. Splitting groups on the trail decreases the distance between folks to 2 feet or less.  
5. Consider exercising in your neighborhood. If you don't want to wear a mask or deal with others, discover little used side streets in your own neighborhood.
6. Use the streets. Especially if you cycle with some regularity, but first make sure you know how to ride on the street AND consider using WAZE to find good routes. Traffic has decreased dramatically and riding on the streets may be safer than using the trails from a virus exposure perspective.

We all need an outlet to the stress created by the COVID-19 pandemic. Exercise is a good option that can also help us find our best socially responsible selves in terms of patience and consideration for our fellow residents of Durham. Happy Trails, until it is safe to meet again!