Bear Brook State Park is still here for you!

The spread of the novel coronavirus, COVID-19 has impacted all of our lives. Although authorities have closed schools and many businesses, most outdoor spaces remain open. As we seek solace and health in the outdoors, it is important that we also protect the health of all of our neighbors. Many trail and outdoor organizations have issued guidelines for using outdoor spaces including:

- Make the health of everyone in your community your priority. Go out only if you’re feeling healthy and you have not had close contact with anyone who is sick.

- Some trails and parks have been closed due to overcrowding. Before you go, make sure you are following the regulations from local health officials and the trail manager for the trail you are visiting.

- If you have to drive to access outdoor spaces, don’t carpool with non-household members.

- Stay at least 6 feet away from others when in a public setting, including the outdoors.

- Engage in low-risk activities; now is not the time to try something extreme and end up in the hospital, taxing an already taxed health care system.

- Wash hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. If a sink isn’t available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.

- Avoid surfaces that are touched often, such as doorknobs, handrails, and playground equipment.

- Please leash your dog! This is required in the State Park system and they are members of your household and need to keep their social distance as well (and most standard leashes are 6 feet in length).

Importantly, please STAY LOCAL and AVOID HIGH USE AREAS when you are choosing where to recreate.

If you see a lot of cars at a trailhead, try a different trail or go during a less busy time of day. 

See Trailfinder.info for more information and good tips.