People are searching for new ways to spend their time during the pandemic, so many are turning to trails as a healthy and fun way to get some exercise and adventure.
The Saskatchewan Trails Association (STA) invited all residents to get out and enjoy the trail network on Saskatchewan Trails Day on June 6, while at the same time adhering to provincial health standards.
“Escape the indoors and experience the beauty of Saskatchewan trails,” said STA President David Powell. “Bring your family and friends, or even have your own solo adventure on a new trail. Keep in mind the safety of yourself and others while practicing social distancing. While out on your exploration, we encourage you to share your experience and photos with us using #SaskTrailsDay. You can follow us and on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.”
If by chance someone runs into other trail lovers along their hikes, the STA advises to adhere to the guidelines set out by the Centre for Disease Control (CDC).
Practise physical distancing, defined as maintaining a 2-meter (6-feet) distance away from others and avoid touching the eyes, nose and mouth as well as any other surfaces others might’ve come in contact with.
It is also important to practice good hand hygiene.
If anyone is looking for trails in isolated locations, check out the STA’s online trail directory at https://sasktrails.ca/trail-directory/. The directory provides information about trails, locations, difficulty, length, photos and maps. It can help hikers get from point A to point B on their journeys to experience nature.
As part of the Saskatchewan Trails Day celebrations, the STA launched a month-long photo contest. Make sure to take lots of photos while hiking one of the trails and submit them through Instagram using #SaskTrailsDay.
Entrants can re-enter as often as they like and the best photo, as selected by the STA board of directors, will receive a prize package valued at $200.
All photos become property of the STA and will be used to promote favourite trails. The contest begins on Saskatchewan Trails Day and wraps up on June 30 as part of 'June is Recreation and Parks Month'.
A decision on the top prize will be made the following week.
After experiencing the trail system, the STA encouraged hikers to make a donation to the trail of their choice and to help support trail development and maintenance programs in Saskatchewan. Memberships to become a STA member are available for $25 per year for an individual. STA members have accesses to trail funding and other resources and can also attend and vote at meetings of members.
Visit http://sasktrails.ca/ to find out more information about trails and activities in the province.
