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Hello Arlington! We're mixing it up a bit. Thinking you may be going stir crazy (we sure are). Here are tips to get outside, exercise and enjoy our trails. Just remember to social distance. Hope you are safe and healthy.
Do our trails seem more crowded to you? Us too! In fact, BikeArlington has reported an unprecedented increase in trail traffic – anywhere from 50 – 243% above average trail traffic recently. |
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Avoid the Crowds
Get Out Early
Whenever you are outside, you need to practice social distancing. That can be tough when there are lots of people on a trail. To get the most out of your multi-use trail adventure, try to get out early. You will likely face less than half the number of people on any given morning trip compared to the afternoon.
Check Out Alternative Walking Routes
Our friends at WalkArlington have compiled neighborhood routes called Walkabouts . You’ll find fun routes in your neighborhood and across the County. WalkArlington also has partnered with Sidewalk to offer guided walks around Arlington's Public Art and more. On Sidewalks you can access the chronicles, food, history and culture of Arlington (or anywhere!). You can download Sidewalk from Google Apps Store or Apple App Store.
Make A Game of It - With your Mama!
Here's a fun way to get out and about on Mother's Day. Print this Scavenger Hunt game and take it with you and mom on your next outing. Good for biking or walking! (Let mom win. She deserves it.)
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The Golden Rules for Trail Users
Use Safe Speeds
One of the best things about trails is that there are many ways to use them, including walking, running, rolling or biking. We all get to move at the speed that works best for us. It’s important to make sure your pace is comfortable to others on the trail. And remember, slowdown in crowded areas or when passing.
Keep Right, Pass Left
Similar to the rules of the road, slower traffic should stay right on the trail. When you want to pass another trail user, slow down and make sure there is room to pass safely and comfortably. Before passing, make sure to use a bell or give a friendly audible warning.
Standing Still? Stand Aside
There are a lot of great views on our trails that are perfect for a chat or snack break. When enjoying either of these, or simply taking a break, step off the trail. Being off the trail allows others to continue their adventure without needing to maneuver around you.
Don’t Mess with Nature
A wise person once said, “Leave it better than you found it.” On trails that means don’t pick the flowers, mess with the rocks or trees, build a ramp or take a critter home. Besides the fact that it’s illegal, you could do long-term damage to our fragile ecosystem.
Mind Your Pets
Keeping your furry friends on a leash and nearby make trails and pets a great combination. As the owner, it’s up to you to avoid your pet getting tangled up (or colliding!) with another trail user.
Be Alert
Whether chatting with a buddy, listening to music, or cruising in the zone, make sure you stay aware of your surroundings. From knowing who has the right of way to being able to hear other people passing you, being alert helps you and other trail users understand and communicate with each other. It’s one of the benefits of people-powered movement!
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Please Stay on the Trail
Just recently, a White-spotted Slimy Salamander (Plethodon cylindriceus) was spotted in Arlington…first time since 1977! We are working hard to restore habitat and protect our natural spaces. Stay on established trails, don't bushwack a trail, and don't bike on a nature trail. Mother Nature thanks you. And Sunday is Mothers Day, right?
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Pick a Trail, Any Trail
Arlington has both multi-use (paved) and nature trails (dirt/natural surface). Multi-use are shared with walkers, bikers and skaters. And, you can easily get to them from various streets and sidewalks. Nature trails are not paved; they are made from dirt, gravel or mulch. Only walkers are allowed on nature trails; wheels can damage our trails. Nature trails are only accessible from parks (and even though parks are closed, you can cross them to get to nature trails.) Got it? Good! Here’s a link to Arlington’s amazing trail system. (Note to Self: Practice social distancing when you’re out and about!)
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