“Our national forests and grasslands continue to be a safe place to visit and recreate,” said Tracy Perry, director of the agency’s Law Enforcement and Investigations corps of officers and agents.

“However, visitors should be aware of state, county, and local health restrictions that may prohibit some activities or prohibit visiting some areas on public lands.”

Perry said that while essential public services continue, local partners and agencies ask that visitors “remember that we are all busy and may not be available to respond to all situations. Please avoid high-risk activities. First responders are overwhelmed and may not have the resources to respond to remote areas.”

While outdoor spaces remain accessible to the public in accordance with the latest health guidance, we urge visitors to practice social (physical) distancing and to avoid impacts on park resources.

* Stay at least six feet away from people outside your immediate household.
* When encountering another party on the Trail, step aside and give a six-foot right-of-way.
* Seek out areas that are not crowded to allow for adequate social distancing.
* If you encounter a crowded trailhead, go elsewhere.

We urge visitors to continue to practice “Leave No Trace” principles, including pack-in and pack-out, to keep outdoor spaces safe and healthy.
Consider staying closer to home to enjoy fresh air and outdoor activity. Many local neighborhoods are walkable or have trails nearby accessed by foot or bicycle.