The great outdoors are a great option for beating the coronavirus blues, but on Thursday Boulder County reminded visitors that the countywide order requiring face masks also applies to open spaces and trailheads.
The county on Monday announced it is indefinitely extending the public health order requiring face masks be worn by anyone older than 12 anywhere in the county when they are in public and 6 feet of social distance cannot be maintained.
Face coverings are not necessary when on the trail away from other people, but Boulder County Parks & Open Space in a Thursday news release asked visitors to bring face coverings with them to open space properties and to wear them at trailheads, when passing others and anytime it is not possible to keep a 6-foot distance from anyone who does not live in their household.
"Many residents don't feel safe visiting the trails right now because so few people are wearing masks when they get close to each other. Everyone should feel welcome and safe when recreating on open space, especially our most vulnerable residents. It's such an important resource for mental and physical health in these challenging times," Eric Lane, Boulder County Parks & Open Space director, stated in the release. “It's critical to remember that not everyone infected by the virus will show symptoms; therefore, it's best to keep a 6-foot distance whenever possible, wear a face covering, and avoid touching your face.
"Having a mask with you whenever you leave the house is as important as remembering your keys or other essential items, whether you're going to the grocery store or visiting an open space property."
Bevin Carithers, chief ranger for Boulder County Parks & Open Space, in the release stated, "Park rangers, deputies, and first responders do not hesitate to assist visitors with their needs — answering questions, providing first aid, or assisting with a rescue. Please help me keep my staff and other first responders healthy and available to assist you during your visit by wearing a face covering at the trailheads and when interacting with staff. Wearing face coverings in parks and open spaces is not about anyone’s ideology or beliefs, rather it is about ensuring that the trails remain open and safe for everyone in our community.”
Visitors who do not have face coverings with them could be asked to leave open space properties.
For more guidance on the face-covering order, visit the COVID-19 Boulder County Face Covering Order webpage.
